Little Rock Mayor Frank Scott Jr. Backs Biden-Harris Administration’s Plan for Black Farmers
Mayor Frank Scott Jr. of Little Rock issued a statement in support of President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris’s administration, as it moved forward with distributing financial assistance to Black farmers and other marginalized groups under the Inflation Reduction Act. This act aims to address the long history of discrimination and inequality faced by these farmers in the United States.
Scott’s endorsement highlighted the significance of this initiative, particularly in an area where these farmers had been denied access to crucial USDA lending and safety net programs due to historical discriminatory practices. This financial relief marks a crucial step towards rectifying these wrongs and creating a more equitable agricultural landscape.
Other prominent leaders across the country also applauded this measure. Senator Cory Booker emphasized its importance in addressing past wrongs and providing a lifeline to farmers who had faced unjust treatment. Senator Raphael Warnock noted that these payments, while long overdue, would significantly help farmers in his home state of Georgia. Representative David Scott stressed that this initiative would ensure a level playing field for all farmers, regardless of race or creed, and that it was a move towards a more just and equitable agricultural industry.
The Inflation Reduction Act includes a Discrimination Financial Assistance Program (DFAP), which has disbursed payments to over 1300 farmers in North Carolina alone. This program signifies an important looking-forward moment for agricultural equity in the United States.
Mayor Scott’s support aligns with his broader vision for social and economic growth in Little Rock, where he has made significant strides in enhancing public safety, expanding educational opportunities, and fostering economic development.
As Little Rock’s first popularly-elected African American mayor, Scott continues to champion issues that promote equal opportunities for all communities. His support for the Biden-Harris initiative underscores his commitment to building a more sustainable and equitable society for all residents of Little Rock and beyond.
