Bobby Rush: “This hearing, Mr. Chairman, gives us an opportunity to discuss the many different initiatives that President Obama has…”

I am absolutely committed to the idea, and the potential, of trying to create a unity of will, a unity of spirit, and a unity of understanding, in terms of the whole cooperative sector of our society.

What specific policies would you recommend to combat the historic and current discrimination too often faced by Black and Brown farmers in your respective industries?

I am continually concerned about the impact of any new costs on our nation's farmers and, specifically, the energy costs as it relates to minority farmers and consumers.

Discrimination and prejudice absolutely should not be tolerated in any government program, any organization, or any individual.