PROVOST FARM HERITAGE CENTER AND COMMUNITY GARDEN, INC.

Provost Farm Heritage Center and Community Garden, Inc. was established by the founders of Provost Farm LLC (www.provostfarmllc.com) as part of an initiative to provide a space for visitors to explore the rich history of farming in the area and engage in sustainable agricultural practices. Our Center showcases exhibits on the evolution of farming technology and policy, and offers interactive workshops and educational programs for all ages that bridge the fields of art and agriculture. At PFHCCG, we are dedicated to promoting fairness and equity in our community. We appreciate your support in furthering our mission. Donate today!

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PFHCCG's Motto : Cultivating an equitable pathway towards land and food justice!

OUR MISSION

The mission of Provost Farm Heritage Center and Community Garden, Inc. (PFHCCG) is to educate and empower the next generation of farmers and farm workers, while promoting diversity and inclusion in agriculture.

Our objective is to increase and sustain the number of Black and Indigenous farmers in American society, with particular focus on South Louisiana. Our aims are fostering economic prosperity and environmental justice for all people, while prioritizing communities negatively impacted by discrimination and climate change.

OUR WORK

Provost Farm Heritage Center and Community Garden, Inc. expected outcomes include fostering fair and sustainable practices that lead to an increase in the number of Black and Indigenous farmers and farm workers.

Our organization encourages greater public awareness and understanding of the critical role that diversity and inclusion play in agriculture. While our work primarily aims to directly benefit under-resourced groups, we strive to have a positive impact on all segments of society.

We evaluate our success based on various metrics including the number program participants, the level of public interest, and general outcomes of community support.

Provost Farm Heritage Center and Community Garden is BIPOC-led not only in terms of leadership but also in terms of our team’s multigenerational, on-the-ground experience in farming. We recognize the significant challenges related to land and food justice and understand the importance of implementing transformative programs that foster equitable results.

hISTORY & aGRICULTURE

The history of Black farmers and agriculture in the United States dates back to the 1800s, when African Americans were enslaved and forced to work on plantations. After the Civil War, many former slaves became sharecroppers and tenant farmers, but faced discrimination and limited access to resources. In the early 1900s, black farmers formed cooperatives to pool their resources and gain more control over their land and crops. However, the Great Depression and policies such as the New Deal and USDA discrimination led to a decline in black-owned farms. Today, black farmers continue to face challenges such as land loss and lack of access to loans, but organizations and initiatives are working to support and empower them in the agricultural industry.

At Provost Farm Heritage Center and Community Garden, we are taking action to correct these past wrongs for the greater good of all people.

***Cane Rows II***. Angela Provost, 16x20 Acrylic on Canvas.

aRT & aGRICULTURE

Art and agriculture have a deep-rooted connection that dates back centuries. Art has been used to depict the beauty of the natural world, including landscapes, plants, and animals, and to celebrate the hard work of farmers and their contribution to society. In turn, agriculture has inspired many artists to create works that reflect the connection between humans and nature. Additionally, art can be used as a tool for education and advocacy, highlighting the importance of sustainable agriculture and the need to protect our environment. Through this connection, art and agriculture can work together to promote a greater understanding and appreciation of the natural world.

Join us as we support the unique perspectives and contributions of BIPOC artists and farmers. From traditional farming communities to modern urban agriculture projects, each one has a story to tell and a role to play in shaping our world. Let's celebrate their creativity, resilience, and commitment to sustainability, and work together to build a brighter future for all.

programs

Grower Training to BIPOC Food-way connections

PFHCCG is dedicated to providing comprehensive farmer and farm worker training, encompassing both technical assistance on the ground and policy education that influences the industry. Our classes offer an immersive experience, whether conducted virtually or in person.

South Louisiana is renowned for its rich culinary tradition, and our local community garden is the perfect place to immerse yourself in it. Whether you're a community member or a culinary student, you can take part in our produce donations and learn firsthand about healthy food access and culinary techniques. Join us in our mission to promote sustainable agriculture and delicious food!

Celebrating the commonality of Art and Agriculture

Our workshops showcase the intersection of art and agriculture, offering both literary and visual arts experiences. Through these workshops, we aim to inspire the next generation of humanitarians by creating meaningful work, whether it's at a desk or in the field. Join us to expand your knowledge and explore the connections between art and sustainable agriculture.

Telling the stories of our past and looking to the future

At PFHCCG, we celebrate and honor the hard work and contributions of BIPOC farmers, artists, and community members. Our exhibits proudly showcase the stories of individuals who have often been neglected throughout history. Stay updated on our upcoming exhibits and events to join us in recognizing and amplifying these important voices.

board

members

Angela Provost - president/executive director

Angela Provost, also known as "Angie," is a farmer, activist, and artist. She owns Provost Farm LLC and co-founded the Provost Farm Heritage Center and Community Garden, Inc. Understanding the importance of equity building in her community and beyond, Mrs. Provost is an advocate for social justice. She is also a passionate cook and her recipes were featured in the Food & Wine Magazine Holiday Issue of 2023.

Wenceslaus provost jr. “June” - vp/secretary

Wenceslaus Provost Jr., also known as "June," is a multi-generational farmer and the farm manager at Provost Farm LLC. He co-founded the Provost Farm Heritage Center and Community Garden, Inc. with his wife, Angie. Mr. Provost's story has been featured in various publications, including the 1619 Project, NBC LeftField, and The Guardian, highlighting his advocacy for Black farmers and overcoming obstacles in the industry. June is committed to the belief that farming and growing your food is an inherent right and is passionate about promoting equity in the field.

zella palmer, M.A. - member

Zella Palmer, educator, food historian, author, and filmmaker, serves as the Chair and Director of the Dillard University Ray Charles Program in African-American Material Culture. Palmer is committed to preserving the legacy of African-American, Native American, and Latino culinary history in New Orleans and the South.

ebony woodruff, ESQ.,L.L.M. - member

Ebony Woodruff is a first-generation attorney, legal entrepreneur, and a former Louisiana State Representative. She is the Director of the Southern University Law Center Agricultural Law Institute for Underserved and Underrepresented Communities. Ebony also serves on the Board of Directors for the New Orleans Food Policy Action Council and is a 2023 Aspen Institute Food Leaders Fellow. Ebony earned a Master of Laws in Agricultural and Food Law from the University of Arkansas School of Law, a Juris Doctor from the Southern University Law Center, and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Louisiana State.

Darrell Tennie, B.S., M.B.A., M.A. - member

Darrell K. Tennie, MBA, MA is the founder and CEO of The Tennie Group, LLC, a Tax & Accounting Firm serving clients throughout multiple states across the U.S. with a focus on sustainability in building entrepreneurship and business development within our Socio-economic Disadvantaged Communities along with an emphasis on agribusiness development.