USDA Continues Efforts to Inform Hispanic and Women Farmers and Ranchers of Process for Resolving Discrimination Claims

Dover, Del. June 15, 2011 - As part of continued efforts to close the chapter on allegations of past discrimination at USDA, a series of outreach meetings is being held throughout the country with farmers and ranchers to talk about the process that has been put in place to resolve the claims of Hispanic and women farmers and ranchers who assert that they were discriminated against when seeking USDA farm loans. Most recently, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights Fred Pfaeffle held a series of outreach meetings in California.
"The Obama Administration is committed to resolving all claims of past discrimination at USDA, so we can close this sad chapter in the department's history," said Pfaeffle. "We want to make sure that any Hispanic or women farmer or rancher who alleges discrimination is aware of this option to come forward, to have his or her claims heard and to participate in a process to receive compensation."
According to Jack Tarburton, Delaware and Maryland Rural Development State Director, throughout the summer he will be talking with individuals, as well as farmer and community organizations to underscore USDA’s commitment to resolving allegations of past discrimination and ushering in “a new era of civil rights”.
“If you believe that the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) improperly denied farm loan benefits to you between 1981 and 2000 because you are Hispanic, or because you are female, you may be eligible to apply for compensation,” said Tarburton. “Potential claimants can register to receive a claims package by calling the Farmer and Rancher Call Center at 1-888-508-4429 or visiting www.farmerclaims.gov.”
The program USDA announced earlier this year with the Department of Justice provides up to $50,000 for each Hispanic or woman farmer who can show that USDA denied them a loan or loan servicing for discriminatory reasons for certain time periods between 1981 and 2000. This claims process offers a streamlined alternative to litigation and provides at least $1.33 billion in compensation, plus up to $160 million in farm debt relief to eligible Hispanic and women farmers and ranchers. Hispanic or women farmers who provide additional proof and meet other requirements can receive a $50,000 reward. Successful claimants are also eligible for ...