DNC Supports Black Farmers in Fight for Justice

On April 26, 2006 black farmers from around the country will gather together in Washington, DC to protest unfair treatment by the United States Department of Agriculture while calling on the Republican Congress to support legislation to reopen the claims of black farmers. Seven years after a historic settlement by the Department of Agriculture to compensate black farmers who experienced discrimination, more than 81,000 out of 94,000 farmers still have not received a settlement.

The Bush Administration has dragged its heels and put compensation for black farmers on the back burner. Meanwhile, the number of black farmers continues to dwindle as more and more farmers face foreclosures and bankruptcy. Democrats in Congress are advocating a bill that would force the Bush Administration to allow farmers who are entitled, but received no compensation, to resubmit their claims.

Because of the continuing delay black farmers have decided to make their case in Washington. "Everyday more black farmers are forced to walk away from their farms due to years of unfair and unjust treatment and the government's inability to make good on their promises," said National Black Farmers Association President John Boyd. "The federal government has turned a blind eye to the plight of our nation's black farmers and instead of resolving their claims they have sat by while farm foreclosures on black farmers have increased. This issue continues to be a blemish on our nation's history. USDA can no longer afford to drag its feet on compensating black farmers."

Democratic National Committee Chairman Howard Dean issued the following statement:

"Farming is the lifeblood of America and small farmers are the foundation of America's agricultural system. While all small and family farmers have struggled enormously because of the Republicans' failed leadership, black farmers have shouldered the added burden of discrimination in lending and other practices. It is time to deliver on the promises made to our nation's black farmers. The Bush Administration is missing a historic opportunity to offer remedies for the ugly history of racism and discrimination in America. Instead of sweeping their claims under the rug, the Bush Administration and the Department of Agriculture should honor the contributions and sacrifices of black farmers by joining with Democrats to assure these farmers receive the redress they were promised and deserve."