USDA Seeks Public Input on Racial Justice and Equity

The Department of Agriculture Wednesday published a Federal Register Notice requesting public input on efforts to advance racial justice and equity across the Department. The action follows an executive order, Advancing Racial Equity and Support for Underserved Communities Through the Federal Government, signed on President Joe Biden’s first day in office. Dr. Dewayne Goldmon, Senior Advisor for Racial Equity, states, “We are steadfast towards ending discrimination in all its forms wherever it exists.” The information gained through the notice and public listening sessions will aid in identifying barriers that people of color, underserved communities, and others may face regarding USDA programs. USDA will use this information to identify opportunities to address systemic inequities. The notice will be available for public input until July 15, 2021, and is available online through the Federal Register. In addition, USDA will provide the information gathered to the impending Racial Equity Commission it seeks to launch later this year.