The NPR Politics Podcast How Department of Agriculture Is Reckoning With Racial Inequity
Mar 7, 2023
The podcast explores the USDA's new equity report addressing longstanding discrimination against Black farmers. It highlights challenges in accessing resources and the impact of past injustices on trust in agricultural institutions. Discussions cover the historical context of racial inequity, particularly through significant lawsuits, and the creation of an equity commission aimed at implementing urgent reforms. The conversation also navigates the legal and political obstacles in reforming loan programs for marginalized farmers.
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Historical Discrimination Against Black Farmers
- Black farmers faced decades of discrimination, including being turned away from county committee offices.
- They were denied loans and other vital resources, hindering their ability to farm and build businesses.
Pigford v. Glickman Lawsuit
- The 1999 Pigford v. Glickman lawsuit addressed discrimination against Black farmers in loan applications.
- However, confusing deadlines and other issues prevented many farmers from receiving settlements.
Loan Application Disparities
- The USDA acknowledges that complicated applications contribute to loan disparities.
- Black and Asian farmers face higher rejection and withdrawal rates, hindering their access to vital resources.