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FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2002

A House subcommittee held a hearing on Wednesday to address unresolved discrimination problems at the Department of Agriculture.

The department is accused of widespread bias against Native American, African-American, Hispanic and female farmers. Class action lawsuits have been filed on behalf of thousands who say they were denied loans, services and other information based on their race.

The Clinton administration settled with the African-American farmers and promised reforms. Affected parties and key lawmakers say changes have not occurred.

Get the Story:
On Hill, Tough Questions for USDA (The Washington Post 9/27)

Relevant Documents:
Testimony: Civil Rights Program before the Subcommittee on Department Operations, Oversight, Nutrition, and Forestry: (9/25)

Relevant Links:
Farmers Lawyer - http://www.farmerslawyer.com

Related Stories:
Judge won't dismiss farmers lawyers (Tribal Law 09/12)
Farmers protest USDA discrimination (8/23)
Class action another broken promise (8/13)
'We didn't come to use the bathroom' (7/2)
Law may hurt farmers' lawsuit (12/19)
More farmers wanted for lawsuit (11/09)
Expansion of farmer lawsuit sought (11/1)
Indian farmers hold rally (10/31)
USDA a 'very racist organization' (09/13)