The Year of Agriculture in Augusta Kicks Off with Community Engagement and Celebration
NEWS ALERT
The Year of Agriculture in Augusta Kicks Off with Community Engagement and Celebration
Augusta, GA – January 29, 2025 – The Agribusiness Committee of the Greater Augusta Black Chamber of Commerce has officially declared 2025 as The Year of Agriculture in Augusta, recognizing the vital role agriculture plays in the city’s economy, history, and future. To mark the beginning of this initiative, co-chairs Lashawndra Robinson of Black Farm Street Inc. and C. Joy Brown of Belle Terrace Community Garden are leading efforts to spotlight local farmers, urban agriculture, and community engagement in two major events: the Martin Luther King, Jr. Parade and a community service day at Belle Terrace Community Garden.
Farmers' Collective at the MLK Parade
The MLK Parade, an annual event celebrating the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., will feature, for the first time, a collective of farmers, urban growers, and agricultural innovators. Spearheaded by Black Farm Street Inc., this historic participation underscores the increasing role of agriculture in Augusta’s cultural and economic landscape. The parade, rescheduled due to inclement weather, will now take place on Saturday, February 1, 2025, at 1:00 PM.
“This is more than farming—it’s about cultivating unity, opportunity, and progress in our communities,” said Lashawndra Robinson, founder of Black Farm Street Inc. and retired Army veteran. “Through the MLK Parade, we celebrate resilience, innovation, and equity while inspiring the next generation to embrace agriculture as a path to empowerment.”
The float will feature fresh produce, farm animals, and local students aspiring to become future farmers. It will showcase the diversity of Augusta’s agricultural community, from urban farms to large-scale operations.
To register for the parade, visit the Events tab at blackfarmstreet.org. The deadline for participation is January 30, 2025.
Community Service at Belle Terrace Community Garden
In alignment with The Year of Agriculture, the Agribusiness Committee invites the public to “A Day On, Not a Day Off” at Belle Terrace Community Garden. Originally scheduled for MLK Day but postponed due to extreme weather, this community event will now take place on Saturday, February 8, 2025, at 10:00 AM at 2473 Golden Camp Rd.
Led by C. Joy Brown, Garden Curator and Agribusiness Committee Co-Chair, the event will include the chartering of the Richmond County 4-H Garden Club, a significant step in engaging youth in sustainable agriculture. Volunteers will assist in building compost bins, creating seating areas for gatherings, and participating in a hands-on 4-H activity.
“This is more than a day of service; it’s about planting hope and opportunity in our community,” said C. Joy Brown. “Together, we honor Dr. King’s legacy by cultivating a brighter future for Augusta through agriculture.”
Community members of all ages are encouraged to bring their hands, hearts, and dedication to making a difference. For more information, contact C. Joy Brown at chimerejoy [at] gmail [dot] com.
The Year of Agriculture: A Call to Action
Throughout 2025, The Year of Agriculture will feature educational workshops, farm-to-table events, and collaborative efforts to strengthen food access and sustainability in Augusta. The Agribusiness Committee aims to increase agricultural literacy, support local farmers, and engage the next generation in shaping the future of food and farming.
For more updates and event details, bookmark augusta.farm
About the Greater Augusta Black Chamber of Commerce The Greater Augusta Black Chamber of Commerce serves as a catalyst for Black-owned businesses in the Augusta area, providing resources, advocacy, and community engagement to support economic growth and development.
Media Inquiries:
K Gordon
Growing Augusta: Arts, Agriculture, & Agency
+1 (762) 233-5299
###