Freedmen Heirs Foundation is Strengthening the Economic Infrastructure for Black Farmers

In the US, Black farming families face persistent barriers in accessing the economic infrastructure they need to thrive across generations. Recognizing the unique challenges they face, Seanicaa Edwards Herron founded Freedmen Heirs Foundation to build the market and financial infrastructure necessary for farmers historically excluded from opportunity to achieve long-term economic resilience and build generational wealth.

Seanicaa is an accomplished agricultural economist with decades of experience across the USDA, the University of Missouri, and the private sector. A leading voice on the challenges facing Black farmers, she brings deep expertise to advancing more equitable agricultural systems. As founder and executive director of Freedmen Heirs Foundation, Seanicaa is driving solutions that address long-standing disparities in access and opportunity. Her work earned her an inaugural 2025 Impact Award from the James Beard Foundation.