Bill > HR0152

This resolution declares May 11 through May 17, 2025 as Black Farmers and Growers Week in Illinois, recognizing the significant historical challenges and contributions of Black farmers in the United States. The resolution provides context about the struggles Black farmers have faced, including systemic discrimination by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, which routinely denied loans, delayed payments, and offered lower market prices to Black farmers. Highlighting historical data, the resolution notes that in 1920, African Americans owned 14 percent of the nation's farmland, but by 2017, only 188 Black-owned farms existed in Illinois, totaling 40,412 acres. The resolution encourages Illinois residents and government representatives to learn about Black farming communities and their agricultural contributions, emphasizing how Black farmers have fought to overcome historic discrimination and continue to innovate in agriculture, including developing urban farming techniques and creating local healthy food systems. Additionally, the resolution calls for copies of the document to be presented to the Illinois Department of Agriculture and the National Black Farmers Association, symbolically acknowledging and supporting Black farmers' experiences and ongoing efforts.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/BillStatus.asp?DocNum=152&GAID=18&DocTypeID=HR&SessionID=114&GA=104