In this year’s Black History Month, it’s time to commemorate the African American individuals who have contributed to the farming industry in both the past and the present. These farmers are currently working to make farming more accessible to people of color across the country despite economic hardship, food insecurities, and a white-dominated agricultural industry.
In honor of Black History Month, here are three ways to show your support for black farmers any day of the year:
Learn about the history of African American farmers in your area
America’s agricultural history has been shaped and defined by African American farmers. In the Midwest, black farmers settled and farmed from the earliest days of the states’ settlement.They fought injustice and inequality as white settlers sought to take their land.
Fortunately, African American farmers were able to persevere. From the creation of farming practices, fighting legislation for equal compensation, and bringing healthy food to food deserts, black farmers have influenced the way that farming is conducted today.
To become more knowledgeable on how black farmers have impacted you, take the time to learn about the history of African American farmers in your area and how they exist today.
Support your local African American farmers
According to the United States Department of Agriculture, less than 2% of farmers in the U.S. are African American. Your support can help to grow this number and bring healthy food to your community. It’s important to shop from local brands and small businesses.
You can support your local black farmers by directly purchasing their products and supporting restaurants that use their produce. Additionally, many local farms accept donations in order to make farming more accessible to people of color.
Get in the know!
There’s no power greater than getting involved. To stay up to date on what your local black farmers have accomplished, sign up for their blogs, newsletters, magazines, or other publications.
Subscribe to your local farmers for recipes, farmer’s market dates, and other agricultural news. By staying in the know, you can get on top of great deals and what’s going on in your community.
