Peach Tree Times

State Representative Regina Lewis-Ward recently organized the second Black Farmer’s Ball event in Atlanta on October 25, 2024. The event's theme was "We are Farmers Too," focusing on recognizing the contributions of Black farmers and promoting agricultural equity.

Rep. Lewis-Ward expressed her enthusiasm for hosting the event again, stating, “I am thrilled to host this event again and recognize the incredible hard work of our Black farmers.” She emphasized that the gathering was a celebration of achievements and an opportunity to strengthen relationships with officials who can support policies beneficial to these farmers. "Together, we can build a more equitable future for agriculture and food justice,” she added.

The event featured U.S. Congressman Sanford Bishop delivering the welcome address, while U.S. Senator Jon Ossoff contributed remarks via video. Nikki Thomas, State Deputy Director of the Farm Service Agency at the U.S. Department of Agriculture, served as the keynote speaker.

Several awards were presented during the ceremony: Handy Kennedy Jr., from HK Farm in Cobbtown, Georgia, received the Lifetime Achievement Award; Jamaal Jackson from Jackson Farms in Brooks County, Georgia, was honored with the Legacy Farmer Award; Evelyn Fitzgerald from Fitzgerald’s Garden of Goodies in Douglas County, Georgia, earned the Small Producer Award; Twyla Jackson from NuTerra Research and Development in Floyd County, Georgia, was given the Climate-Smart Award; and Dr. Veronica Womack from Georgia College and State University’s Rural Studies Institute received recognition as Champion Farmer.