The farming industry in the United States is facing dire circumstances under the policies of President Biden, according to John Boyd Jr., president of the National Black Farmers Association. Boyd expressed his disappointment in the Biden administration for not fulfilling its promise to meet with him and discuss the issues affecting farmers. He criticized the administration for sending millions of dollars in aid to foreign governments while farms in America are being foreclosed.
“We’re facing extinction today,” Boyd said, emphasizing the dire state of the farming industry four years into Biden’s presidency. He pointed out that while the administration is providing relief to foreign countries like Ukraine, American farmers are not receiving the debt relief they need. Boyd called for debt relief and support for American farmers, highlighting the importance of prioritizing their needs over those of foreign nations.
Boyd’s concerns come as President Biden pushes for a $95 billion national security supplemental package to assist Ukraine, Israel, and the Indo-Pacific. While the United States has sent hundreds of millions in aid to farmers in Ukraine, Boyd stressed the need for the administration to fulfill its commitment to American farmers and prevent farm foreclosures.
The rising prices of farmland have made it increasingly difficult for farmers, particularly young farmers, to enter the market. Boyd has been an advocate for farmers facing foreclosures, especially Black farmers who have experienced racial discrimination allegations with the USDA. He explained that small farmers are not receiving enough assistance, making it challenging for them to sustain their operations.
Boyd also addressed the declining beef production in the country, pointing out that the lack of investment in American farmers is contributing to this issue. He emphasized the importance of supporting farmers to ensure food security for the nation. If changes are not made within the next five to ten years, Boyd warned that the farming industry will struggle to meet the country’s needs.
The National Black Farmers Association president highlighted the discrepancy between providing billions of dollars to foreign countries while neglecting American farmers. He called for redirecting those funds to support American infrastructure and farmers. Boyd believes that investing in the country’s own resources will have a multiplying effect, benefiting future generations of farmers.
Boyd emphasized that helping farmers should not be a partisan issue and expressed hope that the Biden administration will fulfill its promise to meet with him. He criticized the allocation of resources to foreign countries instead of supporting American farmers, calling it “bad politics.”
In response to Boyd’s concerns, a White House spokesperson stated that they appreciate his work on behalf of Black farmers and their insights into the struggles they face. The spokesperson mentioned recent efforts to invite Boyd to an event focused on advancing equity and opportunity in agriculture. The statement highlighted investments made through the Inflation Reduction Act to assist farmers and improve land access opportunities.
The farming industry in the United States is at a critical juncture, and the Biden administration’s response to the concerns raised by John Boyd Jr. will be closely watched. As farmers continue to face challenges, the need for support and relief becomes increasingly urgent.
