Discrimination on the Farm in Oregon and the Nation

Black History Month special: Minority farmers in Oregon; National Black Farmers Association's Fight

• Only 76 of Oregon's 38,553 farms are operated by African-Americans, according to the most recent Census of Agriculture. Why is that? Miriam interviews PSU black studies professor Darryl Millner for some answers. He talks about Oregon's exclusion laws, which barred blacks (including farmers) from settling in the state until well into the 20th century.

• Finally, we chat with John Boyd Jr., president of the National Black Farmers Association, about a decades-old, still unsettled discrimination suit against the USDA. The USDA, which could settle the billion-dollar suit soon, is also being sued by Hispanic and female farmers for discriminatory practices. 
• And don't forget to listen to our very varied call in comments from listners across the political spectrum. Keep the conversation going!

(Photo of John Boyd Jr. at a recent rally in Montgomery, Ala./courtesy of NBFARally).