Anthony Pahnke, Vice President of Family Farm Defenders, is dedicated to preserving family farms and supporting local food production. Growing up on a 60-cow dairy farm outside Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, Pahnke learned the values of hard work and sacrifice from his grandparents. “I grew up milking cows, helping with chores, and participating in 4-H,” he recalls. “My parents always encouraged me to leave the countryside, though, saying there was no future here.”
Despite their advice, Pahnke’s roots in farming have stayed strong. Today, he lives in Oakland, California, where he teaches at San Francisco State University. While living in the Bay Area, Pahnke stays connected to agriculture through his work with Family Farm Defenders, an organization focused on protecting small farms and promoting fair food systems.
His commitment to family farms is also reflected in his personal endeavors. “We still have a family farm, though we don’t milk cows anymore,” Pahnke explains. “My cousin and I are growing corn for tortillas, and my wife has a catering business. We want to bring production back to the farm.”
Despite the challenges farmers face today, Pahnke’s passion remains unwavering. He is motivated by the stories of struggle and sacrifice that shaped his upbringing. “I remember how my grandfather, despite a broken leg, walked my mother down the aisle on her wedding day,” he says. “It’s that kind of dedication that drives me to stay involved in farming.”
Pahnke’s work with Family Farm Defenders has broadened over the years. The organization has grown to include not just dairy farmers, but also fruit and vegetable growers, workers, and consumers. “Our membership has changed a lot. We now have a mix of people involved in different areas of the food system,” he explains.
Family Farm Defenders also works on a global scale. Members have participated in international protests and met with farmers from all over the world. “Farmers everywhere face similar challenges. It’s essential for us to organize and work together across the globe,” Pahnke says.
The pahndemic has also heightened awareness about the food system. “Seeing milk dumped and vegetables plowed under made people ask, ‘Why is this happening?’” Pahnke reflects. “It’s made people realize how fragile our food system can be and think about how they can take more control over their food.”
Pahnke emphasizes the importance of growing real food, not just ingredients. “Our organization encourages people to grow food that nourishes, not just the raw materials that make up ingredients. There’s a difference.”
As Pahnke continues to advocate for family farms, his vision remains clear. “We need to support local food systems and ensure that farmers can continue growing the food that feeds us all.”
Family Farm Defenders remains dedicated to its mission, working to improve the future of agriculture and preserve the legacy of family farms.
