USDA Targets Grants for Cancellation Based on Diversity Terms

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) initiated a search for grants to potentially terminate by focusing on over two dozen specific terms associated with diversity and climate change. This move occurred during the early months of the second Trump administration, as part of a broader effort to align federal agencies with directives from former President Donald Trump. Documents reviewed by Reuters reveal that the USDA’s actions were influenced by Trump’s criticisms of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, which he has labelled as “racist” and “illegal.”

The USDA’s examination of grants was part of a campaign that aimed to dismantle climate regulations and DEI efforts within the federal government. According to information on the Department of Government Efficiency website, the USDA has terminated approximately 600 grants, amounting to over $3 billion. The specific search terms and methodology employed for identifying these grants had not been publicly disclosed prior to this report.

Focus on Diversity and Climate Change Terms

In a memo dated February 6, 2023, the USDA directed its budget and finance officers to identify grants that included keywords such as “diversity,” “equity,” “inclusion,” and related phrases. These terms often referenced socially disadvantaged groups, including farmers of color and women, who had historically received targeted support through federal initiatives. The memo was issued by then-acting general counsel Ralph Linden, along with budget director John Rapp and deputy chief financial officer Lynn Moaney.

On February 24, 2023, the USDA expanded its review to include terms related to climate change. This included phrases such as “climate modeling,” “carbon pricing,” and “renewable energy modernization.” The agency’s actions reflect a significant shift in focus, moving away from programs that support climate-friendly agricultural practices and sustainability initiatives.

Impact of Terminated Grants

The work funded by the cancelled grants ranged from providing technical support for farmers adopting climate-friendly practices to improving nutrition for those receiving federal food aid. The termination of these grants has had a widespread impact, affecting organizations that aim to create equitable food systems and support small local farmers.

According to Holly Bainbridge, a senior attorney with FarmSTAND, the cancellation process has undermined efforts to build a fairer food system. FarmSTAND, alongside legal groups Earthjustice and the Farmers Justice Center, obtained the USDA documents as part of ongoing litigation concerning these grant terminations.

The USDA has not commented on the specifics of the litigation or the criteria used for terminating the grants. In two memos released on March 13, 2023, Brooke Rollins, the Agriculture Secretary, stated that the review of grants was a means to “establish a return to American principles” and refocus the department on its original objectives of promoting agriculture and ensuring food safety.

The documents obtained by FarmSTAND illustrate the significant changes at the USDA and the implications for federal support of diversity and climate-related initiatives. As the legal battles continue, the future of these programs remains uncertain, raising concerns about the direction of federal agricultural policy.