The USDA intends to create a commission to examine racial equity issues in the agency and develop solutions for any concerns. 

According to a press release from the agency, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack states that the Equity Commission will be “an important step in dismantling barriers historically underserved communities have faced in accessing USDA programs and services.” 

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“The Equity Commission will be an invaluable advisor on USDA’s continuing march towards justice and equity; we look forward to receiving a wide-ranging and diverse set of nominations from the public to serve on this transformational commission,” Vilsack added. 

The release goes on to include that a Subcommittee on Agriculture will be formed to report back to the Equity Commission and provide recommendations on issues of concern related to agriculture. 

The creation of the commission is also a part of President Biden’s American Rescue plan which mandates financial assistance to socially disadvantaged farmers. 

According to a report in The Hill, the legislation also includes billions of dollars in aid to help socially disadvantaged farmers who have undergone discrimination. 

The American Rescue Plan specifies the amounts of funding to provide outreach, mediation, training and assistance on issues concerning certain socially disadvantaged groups, including disadvantaged farmers, ranchers or forest landowners. 

The USDA is also soliciting nominations to consider membership on both the Equity Commission and the Subcommittee on Agriculture, according to the USDA press release. 

Both the commission and subcommittee are open to the public and any interested person or organization may nominate qualified individuals for membership.