Empowering Rural Communities Through Education and Legal Assistance
The UAPB Small Farm Program is set to enrich rural life education with two pivotal events at the 65th Annual Rural Life Conference. The public is invited to a free screening of the documentary “Gaining Ground: The Fight for Black Land” on March 14, which delves into the struggles and triumphs of Arkansas’s Black landowners. Following the screening, a Wills Clinic will be offered on March 15, providing essential legal consultations and services to assist attendees in managing their heirs’ property issues, with attorneys available to draft wills and beneficiary deeds at no cost.
Supporting Legacy and Cultural Preservation
“Gaining Ground,” produced by John Deere and Al Roker Entertainment, portrays the historical challenges faced by Black landowners and their journey to reclaim their lands and cultural heritage. This event will feature not only the film but also discussions with prominent local figures, including UAPB students and the sole Black rice mill owner in Arkansas, PJ Haney III. The subsequent Wills Clinic is part of UAPB’s efforts to integrate practical legal support into the Rural Life Conference, ensuring attendees leave equipped to secure their familial and cultural legacies.
Comprehensive Rural Life Conference Offerings
The 65th Annual Rural Life Conference, free for a diverse audience including producers, students, and veterans, promises an engaging day filled with over 20 workshops and more than 50 exhibits. Participants will enjoy complimentary meals, the chance to win door prizes, and can also choose virtual participation. This year’s theme emphasizes the importance of community service and collaboration to preserve legacies and build resilient rural communities, spotlighting the ongoing need for proper estate planning to combat historical disparities and wealth loss among African American landowners.