In a gripping legal battle that underscores systemic issues of racial discrimination, a Louisiana farmer has taken his grievances to the federal court. Dexter L. Davis, a seasoned farmer from Sondheimer, Louisiana, filed a complaint on December 13, 2024, in the United States District Court for the Western District of Louisiana against Thomas Vilsack, Secretary of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). The case highlights allegations of racial discrimination and retaliation by the USDA in its lending practices.
Dexter L. Davis, representing himself pro se, accuses the USDA of systemic racial discrimination that has severely impacted his ability to maintain and grow his farming operations. According to Davis's complaint, he has been subjected to unfair treatment due to his race since he began farming independently in 1984. Despite being qualified as a socially disadvantaged farmer under USDA regulations, Davis claims that his requests for essential loan services were unjustly denied. "The agency inflicted race (black) against Plaintiff as a form of discrimination," states Davis in his complaint.
Davis details numerous instances where he sought assistance from the USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) but was met with rejection or neglect. He cites an incident from December 2019 when he requested a non-disturbance agreement necessary for securing bank loans for his 2020 farm operations. Despite similar requests being granted to white farmers, Davis alleges that his plea was dismissed without consideration. The complaint also references past demonstrations and complaints filed by Davis against the USDA for discriminatory practices as factors contributing to ongoing retaliation.
The plaintiff further alleges violations of several federal laws including Title VI of the Civil Rights Act and the Equal Credit Opportunity Act (ECOA). He argues that these actions not only deprived him of equal opportunities but also violated constitutional rights guaranteed under the Fifth Amendment. "Plaintiff’s opportunity to acquire this agreement was lost due to his being socially disadvantaged and his race played a determining factor," asserts Davis.
Davis is seeking compensatory and exemplary damages through this lawsuit. He demands that any debts incurred due to discriminatory practices be discharged and requests tax payments equivalent to 25% of any damages awarded be made by the defendant on his behalf. Additionally, he seeks coverage for legal costs including attorney fees despite representing himself.
This case is being presided over by Judge [Name Not Provided] with Case ID: 3:24-cv-01746. Dexter L. Davis stands alone in this legal fight without representation from any law firm or attorney.