RALEIGH, N.C. — Gov. Josh Stein joined the North Carolina African American Heritage Commission and the Legislative Black Caucus on Tuesday to celebrate Black farmers during Black History Month.
“I am honored to shine a light on the contributions of Black farmers, whose innovation and resilience helped build North Carolina’s agricultural economy from the ground up,” Stein said. “This year marks 100 years of celebrations during Black History Month and 250 years of America. We’ve made great progress in the fight for racial equality, but we must keep working to deliver a North Carolina where all people can thrive.”
During the event, Stein inducted four people into the Order of the Long Leaf Pine, one of the state’s highest civilian honors, recognizing their contributions to North Carolina agriculture.
“These honorees represent the best of North Carolina through their contributions to agriculture,” Stein said. “I am proud to honor their lasting impact on our farming communities and our state’s future.”
Order of the Long Leaf Pine honorees:
Phillip Farland - former state director, USDA Farm Service Agency
Timothy Pigford - farmer and civil rights activist
Jason Brown - owner, First Fruits Farm; former UNC and NFL football player
Erin Martin - farmer and owner, Footprints in the Garden
