December 28th 2023.
Jillian Hishaw is fighting for Black farmers who have been subject to discrimination by the government. She is an agricultural attorney and a leader of a non-profit organization, and her mission is to bring peace of mind to the families of mostly older Black farmers before they pass away. This is an effort to restore the legacy her grandfather wanted her to leave.
However, the fight hasn't been easy for Hishaw. She told Capital B that the white farmers get discovery and an injunction within days, whereas she has to work extra hard just to get discovery for the Black farmers.
The struggle is exemplified by Marvin Smith in rural Georgia, who is trying to protect his family's 600 acres of land that was purchased in 1926. The private Sandersville Railroad Co. is trying to seize the land through eminent domain, despite the resistance of Smith and other Black residents who refused to sell.
Smith testified during a four-day hearing in November 2023. He said that he never expected to end up in a position where his land could be taken away despite playing by the rules for 43 years. The land has been used to pay for education and is still being farmed today.
Benjamin Tarbutton III, the president of Sandersville, believes economic development and jobs are most important. He stated that he wanted to seize the land for his railroad to create jobs.
This clash between Black families and the government is a reflection of the ongoing struggle to retain their land against racism, discrimination, and theft. Attorney Bill Maurer with the Institute for Justice asked an important question: "Do you think part of the American dream is having property without it being taken for others use?" This is a question that needs to be answered and addressed by the government.
Jillian Hishaw is doing her best to help the Black farmers in her fight to restore the legacy her grandfather wanted her to leave. We must all come together to help these families and ensure they can keep their land, which is so important to their livelihoods. We must also work to bring justice to those who have suffered discrimination at the hands of the government.
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