Women can and have leadership positions

Re: “Women in agriculture can be a dicey topic” by Kevin Hursh, on Nov. 2

Amid coverage of mass shootings, sexual assault allegations, and political scandal, we are caught up in a gender quarrel in agriculture.

I have to say, I am a quite disappointed this battle has ensued. I find myself siding with the men. It is without question

that real struggles with sexual harassment and assault exist. This is unfortunate, but true. These are very different issues than what is being discussed regarding leadership opportunities for women.

Kevin Hursh may have stepped on a proverbial landmine with his tweet, but he is not wrong. If you want to be involved, show up. Even when it’s uncomfortable. We all need support, especially women. Now let’s use this conversation as an opportunity, rather than an invitation to a debate through a series of 140character zingers.

I look around and see many female leaders, throughout the value chain. I know a number of them personally, and they did not wait to be invited. They showed up, challenged status quo, leaned in, and participated.

Joining a board as a woman is one of the easier ways to enter a leadership role. Call the commodity organization of choice during nomination periods and obtain the required paperwork. Visit your neighbours to gather the signatures and submit. The election process follows, but in my experience it is the female candidates who stand out.

Thank you, Kevin, for starting this conversation. Now ladies, recognize the opportunity in this challenge. Find support in your personal peer groups, use that courage, and participate! Tracy Broughton, Saskatoon