“The Spirit of Oligarchy in American Agriculture” with Prof. Etienne Toussaint

Join Etienne C. Toussaint, award-winning law professor and expert in critical legal theory, for an in-depth discussion on the historical and contemporary challenges faced by Black farmers in the United States. Drawing from his extensive scholarship on food insecurity, environmental injustice, and the intersection of race and law, Professor Toussaint will examine the historical marginalization of Black farmers and the legal and policy frameworks that have perpetuated their struggles.

In this session, Professor Toussaint will present his work-in-progress article, which critically analyzes recent legislative efforts to address these issues, including the American Rescue Plan Act’s debt relief program and the constitutional challenges surrounding race-conscious remedies in agricultural policy. He will also discuss the recommendations of the USDA Equity Commission and explore how modern social movements, such as those advocating for food justice, intersect with the fight for racial equity in agriculture.

Professor Toussaint’s scholarship spans topics like environmental law, food justice, and the political economy of race. His work engages deeply with the history and legacy of Black agricultural practices, offering a nuanced perspective on how the law has shaped the economic landscapes of Black communities. His publications, such as The Abolition of Food Oppression and Black Urban Ecologies and Structural Extermination, shed light on the systemic inequalities that continue to affect Black farmers and urban communities alike.

This event will offer both an educational presentation and a moderated discussion, allowing for an exploration of these pressing issues in a way that is both theoretical and grounded in real-world legal contexts. Professor Toussaint’s unique teaching and mentorship experience will also offer attendees valuable insights into how law and political economy can be used as tools for empowerment and social justice.