TRENTON, NJ – Farmers in the New York and New Jersey region who have faced discrimination from the U.S. government could be eligible for relief in the near future.
The Biden administration has announced that it will begin accepting applications for $2.2 billion in financial assistance for farmers who have faced discrimination from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). This move comes as part of the administration’s efforts to address historical discrimination and disparities in the USDA’s farm loan programs.
Over the years, the USDA has faced allegations of discrimination against farmers of color, women, and other underrepresented groups in agriculture. The Biden administration has made it a priority to address these issues and provide financial assistance to those affected.
The program, named the Discrimination Financial Assistance Program, is funded by the Inflation Reduction Act passed last year. Farmers, ranchers, and owners of forest land who have experienced discrimination based on race, religion, gender, or other identities resulting in loan denials, unfavorable loan terms, or loss of assets such as land or homes, can apply for the funds.
To apply, applicants must provide details of their experiences with discrimination by USDA personnel. The application process will be supported by various organizations partnering with the USDA to provide assistance to Black, Native American, young, and other marginalized farmers.
Savi Horne, director of the North Carolina Association of Black Lawyers Land Loss Prevention Project, one of the partner groups, expressed the importance of making the application process work for the farmers who have suffered discrimination.
Applications will be accepted until October 31, and the USDA aims to distribute payments by the end of this year.