Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper has officially signed a proclamation recognizing February 2026 as “Georgia Black Farmers Month,” honoring the vital role Black farmers play in the state’s top industry.
The proclamation signing ceremony took place at the Georgia State Capitol and included several state leaders and agricultural advocates. Joining Commissioner Harper were Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones, House Agriculture and Consumer Affairs Committee Chairman Robert Dickey, Senator Freddie Powell Sims, Representative David Huddleston, Representative Leesa Hagen, Director of Public and Private Partnerships for United States Department of Agriculture Bruce LeVell, and activist and author Vivian Childs, among others.
The proclamation formally designates February as Georgia Black Farmers Month, recognizing the more than 2,700 Black farmers across the state whose contributions strengthen Georgia’s agricultural economy.
Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones shared remarks on X following the ceremony, stating, “It was a privilege to recognize Georgia Black Farmers Month today at the Capitol, alongside Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper. With more than 2,700 Black farmers across Georgia, their hard work and leadership have helped make agriculture the backbone of our state. Grateful for all they do to keep Georgia growing.”
Honoring Black Farmers in Georgia’s #1 Industry
During the ceremony, Commissioner Harper highlighted the contributions of Black farmers to Georgia’s agriculture industry, which remains the state’s number one industry. From row crops and livestock to specialty crops and agribusiness leadership, Black farmers continue to play a significant role in sustaining rural communities and advancing agricultural innovation.
The recognition of Black farmers in Georgia underscores their historical and ongoing impact on the state’s farming legacy, economic growth, and food production systems.
By proclaiming February 2026 as Georgia Black Farmers Month, state leaders reaffirmed their commitment to celebrating diversity in agriculture and honoring the farmers whose dedication helps keep Georgia growing.
Audio Reporting by Dale Sandlin for Southeast AgNet.