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Hello BFAA Members
The Latest from "Cultivating Wealth" Your Monthly Guide to Black Agricultural Wealth-Building and more
Volume 6. September, 2024
"CULTIVATING WEALTH“ THE BAF NETWORK”
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Narrative example
Steps to attach your Narrative through the BFAA website
Major things are happening…Are you on the “LIVE” zoom calls?
Social Media channels
Farming Fact of the Month
Dear Valued Members of the Black Farmers Agriculturalists Association Inc. (BFAA)
We are excited to present you with the latest edition of "Cultivating Wealth." As always, we remain dedicated to uplifting and empowering Black farmers across the country. In this issue, we’ve put together a blend of community stories, industry insights, and practical resources designed to enhance your farming success. Each piece is chosen to inform, inspire, and guide you on your agricultural journey. Let’s dive into the wealth of knowledge and opportunities we’ve gathered just for you.
Example Narrative
NARRATIVE OF SALLIE DOE
Hello BFAA members, for those of you who are actively participating in the weekly zoom meetings are familiar with the term “Narratives” Below we have attached a copy of sample Narrative for your review, and reference. Thank you for your participation in the weekly zoom live events.
In 1985 my father, Frank Doe, Jr. owned approximately 100 acres of farmland in Fayette County, Tennessee. This land was located in the Fredonia Community approximately 10 miles from Mason, Tennessee. He also leased 25 acres located off State Highway 222 from a relative in the same year. My father had been farming all of his life and in 1985 he went to the local USDA office in Somerville, Tennessee to apply for a loan to plant his corn, soybean and hay crops. He also grew vegetables, hogs, cattle and needed money to purchase seeds, fertilizer and other supplies.
I remember my father telling me that he was denied an application by the officials at the local USDA county office at the same time that white farmers were getting loans from USDA.
I believe that the losses from not being able to receive the loan from USDA were over $35,000.00.
In the summer and fall of 2023, after hearing about a program from which individuals who believed that they had been discriminated against by USDA could apply for settlement money from the USDA, I attended a meeting where USDA officials were helping and explaining the application process. However, when I told them that I was applying for my deceased father I was told that I could not participate in the process and was denied an opportunity to fill out the application papers.
I firmly believe that not only was my father discriminated against in 1985 but that, as his daughter I was also a victim of discrimination in 2023 when I attempted to file a claim for my father’s estate.
Attach Your Narrative To Your Profile
IT’S TIME TO CREATE AND ATTACH YOUR NARRATIVE
Step 1. Go to the BFAA website. www.bfaainc.com
Step 2. From the upper right hand corner of the website you will see what looks like a person that is grey, if you hover over the person it will read “my account'“. Click the image to proceed.
Step 3. The system will ask you for your email address or telephone phone number, if you put in your email, an email will be sent to you with a code to put into our system on the next screen. If you choose phone number, a text message will come to you with a code to put into the system to move forward. *The system only recognizes phone numbers that have been previously used to set up your account and are associated with your existing profile*
Step 4. Once you are logged into the system, you will see your account profile, look over this information and if any information is incorrect, please update your information at this time Look for several green buttons on the right hand side of the screen, the 4th button down will say “send us a file” click this button to take you to the next page where you will be able to attach a file from your laptop or desktop computer.
Step 5. You are almost complete, from this last screen you will be able to attach a file, “YOUR NARRATIVE”. After attaching your narrative name the document, leave a message, and send the document to us from the green send button located at the bottom of the page. Please put the date next to your document name.
*ALSO FROM THIS SCREEN, PLEASE OPT IN TO RECEIVE TEXT MESSAGES FROM DIRECTLY FROM BFAA*
Social media channels
Connect with The Black Farmers Agricultural Association Inc. on social media to stay updated on our latest initiatives, events, and agricultural insights. Join our thriving community of farmers and supporters by following our Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram accounts. Click the links below to engage with us across these platforms!
ARE YOU PARTICIPATING IN THE WEEKLY ZOOM MEETINGS
Don't Miss Out: Weekly Zoom Meetings with President Thomas Burrell
In the 2024 assemblies, President Burrell will share timely updates on the latest changes in agricultural regulations, evolving market dynamics, and economic trends that are shaping the future of Black farming. As a valued member of BFAA, you’ll gain exclusive early access to new initiatives, events, and opportunities for collaboration. These meetings will also present personalized financial strategies to help you grow a more sustainable and profitable farming business.
The assemblies also serve as a critical platform for addressing legal and policy issues that affect our community. You’ll stay up-to-date on the most pressing challenges facing Black farmers, while learning how to advocate for your rights and adapt to changes in farming laws that could influence your day-to-day operations.
In addition to valuable information, these virtual sessions offer a space to network with other members nationwide. By exchanging stories of success and lessons learned, you can find new opportunities for partnerships, mentorship, and business growth that could take your farming endeavors to the next level.
Interactive Q&A sessions allow you to engage directly with President Burrell and other BFAA experts, providing tailored advice on the specific challenges you’re facing. You’ll also be part of group discussions on shared issues, offering your own expertise while learning from others. In these sessions, we’ll also cover new technologies and techniques designed to improve farm productivity and efficiency.
While attendance isn’t mandatory for receiving grants, being a part of these meetings can significantly increase your chances of success in agriculture. The knowledge gained often leads to enhanced operations, greater profitability, and a deeper connection with the BFAA community.
We strongly urge all members to make these weekly virtual meetings a priority. Although recordings will be available, live participation is the best way to fully benefit from the real-time interaction and networking opportunities. Your engagement helps not only your growth but also strengthens the entire network of Black farmers.
Additionally, we encourage you to spread the word to other farmers who could benefit from our assistance and resources. By connecting potential new members to BFAA, you’re contributing to the growth and success of Black farmers everywhere.
Make sure to join us this week and experience how these meetings can provide the insights and connections that will propel your farming journey forward.
Farming Fact of the Month
Did You Know? In the 1920s, Black farmers made up about 14% of all U.S. farmers, owning nearly 15 million acres of land. However, due to discriminatory practices, land loss, and limited access to resources, Black farmers now make up less than 2% of the nation's farmers, owning only about 4.7 million acres. Despite these challenges, the Black farming community continues to push forward, reclaiming land, and building a legacy of agricultural resilience.
Remember, "Cultivating Wealth" is committed to:
Keeping you up-to-date on the latest agricultural trends and policies
Teaching valuable skills and strategies for farm management and growth
Giving back to our community through grants and resources
Communicating the issues that matter most to Black farmers.
Your active participation and word-of-mouth recommendations help us grow stronger together. Share this newsletter with a fellow farmer today!
In conclusion, your engagement with BFAA and "Cultivating Wealth" is crucial to our collective success. By staying informed, participating in our events, and spreading the word, you're not just cultivating your own wealth – you're nurturing the prosperity of our entire community.
Together, we're planting the seeds for a bountiful future in Black agriculture.
Wishing you a prosperous month ahead!!!
