FARMING & AGRICULTURE DEPARTMENT
Farming and agriculture begins with land. The BAF will purchase thousands of acres of farm and grazing land on behalf of the Black community to:
- Grow and preserve fresh organic produce, meat and eggs.
- Grow and process medicinal plants and herbs.- Raise and process chickens, goats, sheep, cows and other animals for food and products.
- Grow and process commercial mamajuana as a revenue stream.
Growing our own food offers numerous advantages, including better health through fresh, pesticide-free produce, reduced grocery costs, environmental sustainability, and a greater sense of self-sufficiency and connection to the environment.
SOLUTION 1. BUY LAND TO BUILD NEW FARMS AND RANCHES
THE PROBLEM
It is no secret that the American food industry is plagued by a reliance on highly processed, nutrient-depleted foods, exploitative practices, and unsustainable production methods that contribute to widespread health issues, environmental degradation, and social inequality, especially for Black people.
Furthermore, Black farmers have faced systemic discrimination for decades, including denial of loans, land theft, and unequal access to government resources, all of which have contributed to a significant loss of land and diminished opportunities for wealth-building in Black agricultural communities.
THE SOLUTION
Our solution is to empower Black communities by taking control of food production through: 1. purchasing farm and grazing land to cultivate fresh produce and livestock, 2. creating local collectively--owned and operated grocery stores and food pantries, and 3. offering resources and technical support to Black farmers and farming organizations.
Providing support to Black farmers and Black farming organizations through grants and technical assistance offers several advantages.
First, it helps bridge the historical gap in resources and access, enabling Black farmers to thrive in an industry that has often excluded them. Our grants will provide critical funding for land acquisition, equipment, and infrastructure, while technical assistance will equip Black farmers with the knowledge and skills needed to improve productivity, sustainability, and profitability. This support will lead to the preservation and expansion of Black-owned farms, create more job opportunities and promote food sovereignty within Black communities.
Additionally, fostering the growth of Black farming organizations allows them to share best practices, strengthens their collective bargaining power, and ensures greater influence in agricultural policies and decision-making.
SOLUTION 3. SUPPORT BLACK FARMERS AND FARMING ORGANIZATIONS
There are virtually no Black-owned grocery stores left in the U.S., leaving Black communities in dire need of healthy and affordable food options.
BAF will establish local, collectively-owned grocery stores, empowering Black communities to take control over the quality, affordability, and sourcing of our food, ensuring access to fresh, healthy options that reflect local needs.
These stores will also stimulate local Black economies and foster economic resilience and sustainability by keeping resources within the community, creating jobs, and reducing reliance on large, profit-driven corporations.