Making a living from farming is no easy undertaking. Gaining capital to enter the agricultural sector, accessing infrastructure for growing and producing, and navigating competitive markets are some of many challenges that farmers face. For BIPOC farmers and growers in particular, these challenges are compounded by the added layer of an enduring history of racial and social marginalization.
The Black Farmers Index was created to increase the visibility of Black farmers that lack the exposure to sell or distribute their food.
Black farmers and growers across the country have long dealt with discrimination and exclusion from participating in the agricultural sector. The Black Farmers Index seeks to repair legacies of harm by providing consumers with a repository of Black farmers to connect with directly, boosting the exposure of Black food system participants within their local food economies.
What initially began as 150 farmers has now expanded to 1,300 farmers and growers, beekeepers, fisherfolk, ranchers, and others across the country that are committed to giving back to their communities and carving spaces for themselves in agribusiness.
Today, the Black Farmers Index is focusing on expanding their directory by sharing the stories of those involved in local food systems and educating both farmers and the public on the importance of addressing equity issues within the agricultural industry.
One way to contribute to countering these legacies of harm is to seek out BIPOC farmers and growers in your area and buy their products. Check out the Black Farmers Index here, and navigate to Region 10, where you can find a list of Black farmers in Washington state. Several of those listed operate in King County including:
Whether it’s by signing up for a community supported agriculture program or shopping from BIPOC vendors at your local farmers market, connecting with and supporting these businesses are a step forward towards both rectifying racial injustice and promoting a vibrant local food economy.
If you are a Black farmer or know other Black farmers that would like to be listed in the Index, visit this link and scroll to the bottom of the page to submit the registration form.