"Cultivating Wealth"

Black Farmers and Agriculturalists Association (BFAA) Newsletter

Black Farmers and Agriculturalists Association (BFAA)
Edition: July Volume 6

BFAA members:
As we step into the height of summer, we’re reminded of both the beauty and the burden that comes with tending to the land and preserving a legacy. At BFAA, we continue to stand beside you, our members, our movement, and our mission, as we advocate for justice in agriculture, promote Black land retention, and equip our communities with the tools to thrive. In this month’s issue, we focus on legal updates, land security, education, and a touch of summer celebration 

We also want to remind everyone to continue submitting your narratives, your stories remain essential to the work we’re doing in the courts and beyond. You can submit yours by logging into your member profile at www.bfaainc.com or by emailing [email protected]. Together, we are telling the truth of Black farming in America, and building the future we deserve.

This Issue:

• Court Watch: Heirs' Lawsuit Advances in Sixth Circuit

• Virtual Heir Property Awareness Workshops

• Five Essential Steps to Secure Land and Family Wealth

• Summer Webinar Series – July & August 2025

• Summer Harvest Highlight & Featured Recipe

• Member Birthdays & Anniversaries

• Summer Call to Action

• Heat Safety Tips for Farmers

• Message from President Thomas Burrell

1. Court Watch – Heirs Lawsuit Advances in Sixth Circuit

In February 2025, a three-judge panel of the Sixth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals heard oral arguments in the lawsuit seeking to extend USDA relief to heirs of Black farmers. This case addresses a critical gap in the current DFAP and ECAP programs, which exclude heirs from receiving financial compensation for historic discrimination.

Attorneys representing BFAA and impacted families presented strong arguments for inclusion, citing the longstanding transfer of agricultural land through inheritance and the cultural importance of family stewardship. A ruling is expected in the coming months.

➡ Remember: If you haven’t already done so, please submit your family’s narrative. These personal testimonies help strengthen our legal position and highlight the real-world consequences of exclusion. Submit through your member profile or email us at [email protected].

Why Is This Lawsuit Important?

The BFAA lawsuit aims to secure equal access to compensation for the heirs of Black farmers who suffered USDA discrimination. We argue that excluding heirs from relief programs violates their legal rights to inherit real and personal property—rights that have long served as the foundation of Black family legacy, landownership, and agricultural tradition.

2. Heir Property Awareness Workshops – Virtual Support Coming Soon

BFAA is currently developing a series of Heir Property Awareness Workshops, offered exclusively online via Zoom. These virtual sessions will provide education, resources, and guidance for members navigating heirs’ property challenges and land retention issues.

While these workshops do not provide legal advice, they are designed to help you better understand:
- The importance of wills and living trusts
- How partition and quiet title actions affect land ownership
- The impact of unresolved title issues on USDA program access
- Ways to preserve intergenerational ownership and prevent disputes

We are committed to equipping you with the knowledge you need to protect your family land. Stay tuned for upcoming session dates—and be sure to join us on Zoom to learn, ask questions, and connect with other BFAA members who share your concerns.

3. 🌱 Protecting Your Legacy – 5 Essential Steps to Secure Land and Family Wealth

Generational land loss continues to affect Black families at a devastating rate. Below are five essential actions every Black landowner should take to ensure their land remains protected for generations to come.

Step 1: Draft a Will or Establish a Living Trust
Without a formal estate plan, your property may become heirs’ property, which can result in unclear ownership and potential land loss. A will or trust provides clear legal direction for passing down property.

Step 2: Clear the Title through Partition or Quiet Title Actions
A clear title ensures you can access loans, sell, lease, or apply for programs. Legal action may be required to clarify ownership among multiple heirs.

Step 3: Document All Heirs and Maintain Updated Records
Accurate records prevent disputes and ensure smooth transfer of land. Keep a list of heirs, deeds, certificates, and other vital documents.

Step 4: Consult an Agricultural or Estate Planning Attorney
Professional guidance can help avoid costly mistakes. Attorneys can recommend structures like LLCs or trusts tailored to your situation.

Step 5: Archive Your Farming and Land Use History
Photos, planting records, and oral histories support legacy claims and help secure future funding opportunities.

If you have questions or need help locating resources, please email us at [email protected].

4.📆 Summer Webinar Series – July & August 2025

We’re excited to launch a summer lineup of webinars focused on land retention, legal empowerment, and USDA program navigation.

🗓 July 29th – Estate Planning Tools: Wills, Trusts & More
🗓 August Specific date to be announced – Heirs & USDA Programs: What You Need to Know

Zoom links will be emailed to all members. Check the website for updates and register early.

a schedule of upcoming webinar dates and times, please visit our website at www.bfaainc.com, where you can register for these informative sessions.

5. 🍑 Summer Harvest Highlight – What’s Growing & What to Cook

In Season This Month: Peaches, tomatoes, okra, blackberries, cucumbers, squash, and sweet corn are abundant.

Featured Recipe: Skillet-Fried Peaches
A classic Southern comfort dessert that delivers rich flavor and nostalgic warmth.

Ingredients:
- 3 ripe peaches, peeled and sliced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- ¼ tsp cinnamon
- Pinch of nutmeg
- Optional: toasted pecans or a splash of bourbon

Instructions:
Melt butter in a skillet. Add peaches and sugar, stir until soft. Add cinnamon and nutmeg. Serve warm.

Have a family recipe to share? Send it to [email protected].

6. 🎉 July Celebrations – Birthdays & Anniversaries

We celebrate every BFAA member marking a birthday or anniversary this month. Your life and legacy matter.

To be featured in a future issue, please email your information to [email protected].

7. 📢 Call to Action – Stay Connected This Summer

As we prepare for more programs and events, stay engaged by:
- Checking the website for upcoming Zoom events
- Submitting your family’s narrative
- Encouraging others to join BFAA

8. 🙏🏾 A Final Word – Safety First in Record Heat

Record heat is affecting many regions. Please stay safe:
- Drink water throughout the day
- Limit outdoor activity between 10am–4pm
- Take shaded breaks and wear breathable clothing
- Protect your crops with mulch and shade cloth

We appreciate your continued dedication. Let’s move forward together, rooted in strength and family.

🗣️ A Note from President Thomas Burrell

President Thomas Burrell extends his heartfelt thanks for your continued participation—especially during our Zoom calls. Your engagement drives this work forward. Please continue to show up, share, and support each other as we advance the mission of BFAA.