BLACK FARMERS AND GROWERS WEEK

104th Regular Session Introduced by Mike Crawford and 3 co-sponsors

Declares May 3–9, 2026 as Black Farmers and Growers Week to honor Black agricultural contributions and urges inclusive outreach and access to programs for Black and socially disadv

Added Chief Co-Sponsor Rep. Yolonda Morris

Purpose and intent

This House Resolution designates a one-week period in Illinois as Black Farmers and Growers Week. Specifically, May 3 through May 9, 2026 is proclaimed to honor the history, contributions, and ongoing work of Black farmers and growers in Illinois and the United States.

It recognizes the historical struggle for land ownership and independent farming by Black Americans, notes past discriminatory lending and access barriers, and highlights the role of Black farmers in agricultural innovation and urban agriculture.

The resolution encourages broader, inclusive participation in agricultural programs and outreach to emerging, limited-resource, and socially disadvantaged Black producers.

Key provisions and changes

Proclamation: May 3–May 9, 2026 is declared Black Farmers and Growers Week in Illinois.

Educational and outreach aim: The resolution urges the people of Illinois and state policymakers to learn about the history and contributions of Black farmers and to ensure agricultural programs meaningfully reach Black farmers and socially disadvantaged producers across the state.

Program accessibility: It directs state agencies and policymakers to implement agricultural programs in a way that broadens outreach and participation among Illinois' Black farming communities, including emerging and limited-resource producers.

Stakeholder dissemination: The resolution provides for the distribution of copies to the Governor, Lieutenant Governor, the Director of the Illinois Department of Agriculture, and national organizations such as the National Black Farmers Association and the National Black Food & Justice Alliance.

Who is affected

Black farmers and growers in Illinois, including those involved in emerging sectors (e.g., specialty crops, urban agriculture) and socially disadvantaged producers.

State agencies and policymakers responsible for administering agricultural programs and outreach.

The broader Illinois public, which is encouraged to recognize and learn about Black contributions to agriculture.

Procedural and timeline aspects

Introduced and sponsored by Rep. Sonya M. Harper (co-sponsor listed).

Timing: Resolution sets a specific annual observance window (May 3–May 9) for 2026.

Committee path: Referred to the Agriculture & Conservation Committee, with action noted (the committee recommended adoption on May 7, 2026).

Next steps: If adopted, the resolution would be sent to the Governor, Lieutenant Governor, the IDOA Director, and specified national organizations for awareness and outreach alignment.

Additional context (informational)

The resolution builds on historical context regarding Black land ownership and agriculture, noting significant declines in Black-owned farmland over the past century and evidence of discriminatory practices in lending.

It aligns with Illinois’ broader interest in diversifying agriculture, supporting emerging sectors such as hemp and cannabis in a manner that promotes equity and inclusion.

While non-binding, the resolution signals legislative intent to promote historical awareness and equitable access to agricultural programs.

Notes: The summary focuses on the text provided and describes the bill’s stated purpose, provisions, and potential impact.