WASHINGTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The U.S. Global Leadership Coalition (USGLC) hosted its inaugural Heartland Summit on September 28, 2021 to highlight how foreign aid and America’s engagement in the world is critical to the Midwest. Speakers included Congressmen Randy Feenstra (R-IA) and Dean Phillips (D-MN), Ambassador and former Governor Terry Branstad (R-IA), Des Moines Mayor Frank Cownie, Lt. Gen. Dennis McCarthy, USMC (Ret.) and Jon Nash, Corporate Senior Vice President, Cargill.
From stopping the global COVID-19 pandemic to supporting economic competition as one in five jobs in the Heartland depends on exports, there was widespread consensus that U.S. global engagement is good for the health, economic, and national security of American families. Heartland farmers also feed millions around the world, demonstrating the compassion of the American people.
“When you export, it creates markets where we can keep prices sustainable for our producers, which then turns to help our local main streets or hospitals or schools -- it's all tied together,” said Congressman Randy Feenstra (R-IA).
“We can regain our mantle of leadership by doing the most human initiatives, and I believe this begins with feeding people,” Congressman Dean Phillips (D-MN) said.
Terry Branstad, former Iowa Governor and U.S. Ambassador to China said, “We build friendships that help us feed the world, advance our economic interests, protect our national security, and showcase the best of our American values.”
The Summit also featured special messages from Senators Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Joni Ernst (R-IA), and Tina Smith (D-MN).
“What’s foreign aid worth in America’s Heartland? In short, everything when it comes to the health and prosperity of our families and our futures,” said Liz Schrayer, USGLC President and CEO.
The event also showcased four personal stories from Heartland leaders as part of USGLC’s Foreign Aid: What’s It Worth campaign. Each highlighted the countless benefits of U.S. investments in America’s global engagement on Americans’ everyday lives.
Cities across America’s Heartland issued proclamations making September 28th U.S. Heartland Global Engagement Day. Cities include Bismarck, ND; Fort Wayne, IN; Fremont, NE; Geneva, NE; Kokomo, IN; La Porte, IN; Milwaukee, WI; Noblesville, IN; Topeka, KS; and Toledo, OH.
