February 22nd 2025.
Representatives Alma Adams and Jonathan L. Jackson are speaking out against the U.S. Department of Agriculture for their sudden decision to cancel the 1890 Scholars Program. This program has been a vital resource for students at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) pursuing degrees in the agricultural fields since the early 1990s, according to HBCU Buzz.
The program was eliminated in response to an executive order signed by former President Donald Trump that aimed to combat diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. This decision has sparked outrage, particularly from Adams, an alumna of North Carolina A&T State University, who released a statement condemning the move.
Adams expressed her frustration, stating, "It is infuriating that the U.S. Department of Agriculture has suspended the 1890 Scholars Program 'pending further review.' This is a clear attack on an invaluable program that makes higher education accessible for all and provides opportunities for students to work at USDA, especially in critical fields such as food safety, agriculture, and natural resources that are essential to our everyday lives."
The 1890 Scholars Program was established in 1992 through a partnership between USDA and 1890 land-grant universities. It has successfully increased educational and career opportunities for HBCU students by providing full-tuition scholarships, covering fees, books, and room and board. Recipients of the scholarship also gained valuable work experience at the agency.
As the March 1 deadline for applications approaches, Adams is urging USDA to reverse their decision and reinstate the program. She emphasizes that this program is not an example of racial discrimination, but rather a step towards correcting the historical injustices faced by Black students in the land-grant system. Jackson, who also attended the same university as Adams, joined in calling out the agency for their misguided view of the program.
Jackson stated, "Suspending the 1890 Scholars Program is a direct attack on opportunity. This program is not just about scholarships; it is about ensuring that Black students have a clear path to careers in agriculture, food safety, and environmental science. Terminating this program is not only cruel but also calculated and unacceptable."
In 2024 alone, USDA awarded 94 scholarships through the 1890 program to 19 participating schools, including Florida A&M University, Alabama A&M University, South Carolina State, and Kentucky State University. With the program's future uncertain, students who have already applied for the scholarship are left in limbo, waiting for a response from USDA.
Jackson added, "Cutting this program now sends a dangerous message that equity and opportunity no longer hold value. I will not stand by and watch as this administration attempts to erase decades of hard-fought progress. USDA must reinstate the 1890 Scholars Program immediately because every student deserves a chance to succeed, and our nation's future depends on it."
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