National Black Farmers Association (NBFA) Opens 23rd Annual Conference in Columbia, South Carolina 1.25 B payout to NBFA members
NBFA, a leading national organization that advocates for black and socially disadvantaged farmers, will showcase a youth track for students during its 23rd annual conference on November 8-9, 2013 in Columbia, South Carolina.
NBFA President John W. Boyd announced today that the focus on youth, aimed at getting young blacks and other minorities interested in farming and agri-business is one planned highlight of the gathering, which is expected to be a turning point for the NBFA and the future of Black Farmers. More information on the youth track and other break out sessions at the Doubletree by Hilton Conference Center in the capital city Friday through Saturday can be found at www.nationalblackfarmersassociation.org
As we celebrate a thirty year struggle to victory for black farmers, we must focus on the future. NBFA members must find creative ways to take part in all federal programs such as the much delayed federal crop insurance program to compete with large scale farmers said John Boyd President of the NBFA.
One major theme of the meeting will be a commemoration of the NBFA’s success in settling a decades-long struggle for racial fairness in federal farm lending practices. A protracted legal and legislative battle ended when President Barack Obama signed a bill on December 8, 2010, providing $1.25 billion in payments to eligible black farmers who endured discriminatory practices by the Department of Agriculture.
After decades of waiting, some 18,000 black farmers have begun receiving payments of $50,000 each, plus $12,500 to cover tax liability, under the settlement. I am proud to have lead the fight that resulted in a historic payout to black farmers Boyd concluded
Native American farmers also are beneficiaries of the NBFA advocacy under a related agreement known as the Cobell Settlement, which provided $3.4 billion in compensation to nearly a half million Native Americans.
Boyd announced that the NBFA will host an information session for members during the conference.
