Wisconsin Farmers Union: Championing Dairy Workers' Rights

The Wisconsin Farmers Union (WFU) is a significant advocate for the rights and welfare of dairy workers and farmers across the state of Wisconsin, USA. The organization is dedicated to enhancing working conditions and supporting fair labor practices within the dairy industry.

Location

The Wisconsin Farmers Union is based in Wisconsin, USA, where it plays a crucial role in advocating for local dairy farmers and workers.

Important Events

Recently, the Wisconsin Farmers Union drew attention by issuing a statement regarding a labor dispute at the W&W Dairy plant in Monroe. The organization expressed its solidarity with the involved dairy workers and emphasized the need for updated farm labor policies and comprehensive immigration reform to better support the workforce.

Nineteen members of the Wisconsin Farmers Union participated in the National Farmers Union's annual Legislative Fly-In in Washington, D.C., where they discussed various issues, including dairy policy, with lawmakers and officials.

Company Plans

Looking ahead, the Wisconsin Farmers Union plans to continue its efforts in advocating for improved labor conditions and policies benefiting the dairy industry. This includes lobbying for legislative changes that address farm workers' needs and promote sustainable agricultural practices throughout the state. The organization is pressing the U.S. Senate to enhance dairy-related policies in the forthcoming Farm Bill and is leading the Dairy Together initiative to educate industry stakeholders about the critical role of growth management in sustaining the dairy economy.

Management and Leadership

Darin Von Ruden, a notable figure within the Wisconsin Farmers Union, serves as its President. He has publicly rejected bailout measures proposed by the Trump administration, advocating instead for financial relief stemming from market improvements rather than temporary government aid. Von Ruden argues for maintaining the cap on animal units to ensure that funds benefit a wider range of farmers. The Wisconsin Farmers Union is advocating for policies to stabilize the dairy market, including the Dairy Together initiative, which aims to manage the supply of fluid milk and slow down rapid industry expansion.

The organization has also endorsed the Milk from Family Dairies Act of 2026 and highlighted potential trade issues affecting dairy exports, particularly the dependency on Canadian demand.