The U.S. Department of Agriculture Equity Commission presented an interim report to Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack, which included 32 recommendations on how to remove barriers to inclusion and access.
The Equity Commission was created in February 2022, and is made up of independent members from a variety of different backgrounds, according to a Feb. 28 USDA news release. It works to identify how changes to USDA programs, policies and systems can lift barriers to inclusion and also address systemic discrimination. It also works to address racial, economic, health and social discrepancies.
“This important and insightful report from the Equity Commission will be invaluable to me and USDA staff as we continue to make the People’s Department one that lifts up everyone we serve, not just a few,” Vilsack said in the release. “USDA is committed to turning the tide and ensuring those who seek access to land, capital, markets, nutrition assistance and agriculture education and experience can do so, regardless of their background. We’re confident the work of the Equity Commission will bolster our efforts to realize lasting change at USDA and are grateful to the members for taking on this work.”
The report includes recommendations from the Rural Community Economic Development Subcommittee, which is set to be published at the end of the year, the release reported. The USDA shared updates on steps taken under Vilsack’s leadership in an effort to improve equity and access and also eliminate barriers to programs in underserved communities.
According to the release, the commission is co-chaired by Deputy Secretary of Agriculture Jewel Bronaugh and United Farm Workers President Emeritus Arturo S. Rodriguez. There are 14 other members appointed by Vilsack who do not work for the USDA. They work in partnership with two subcommittees, with one made up of 13 members focusing on agriculture. The other is a 12-member group focusing on rural community and economic development.
“The Equity Commission’s recommendations address issues that are not new to USDA, but they do require a renewed commitment to improve access to programs and services for all stakeholders and communities, inclusive of people of color, farm workers, women, Tribal and Indigenous communities, individuals with disabilities, individuals with limited English proficiency, rural communities and LGBTQI+ communities,” Rodriguez said in the release. “USDA has committed to reviewing the recommendations and identifying requirements for implementation, and we look forward to seeing continued progress and lasting change that will benefit all its customers.”
The interim and final reports can be found at usda.gov/equity.
