Jeremy Peaches: African Americans in Agriculture Spotlight Series

Meet Jeremy Peaches, a young, trailblazing farmer wearing many hats in the Houston, TX communities.

For our second week of the African Americans in Agriculture Spotlight Series, I talked with Jeremy Peaches, a fresh, trailblazing farmer bearing many hats in the Houston, TX communities. Let’s dive in.

Tell us, Jeremy, what does Agriculture mean to you? How does it affect your everyday life?
Agriculture, to me, is life. Without food and fiber, we wouldn’t be able to survive in the modern world. Agriculture is also my passion from a science and industry standpoint. It affects my everyday life because I’ve invested a lot of time, energy, and money into perfecting my craft. It’s just in my blood.

How did you get into agriculture? What was/is your agricultural inspiration or influence?

In interviews, I always give the story of me moving from Mississippi to Houston, TX, in 1999. The trip was filled with views of the rural south, so growing up, it appealed to me. But as I think back further, we always gardened and farmed with my grandmother. My grandparents grew up at a time where people grew their food. I didn’t realize my family has a rich history, dating back to slavery, of being producers. My greatest agricultural inspiration is hands down, “ Hannie Lou Famer,” and I quote, “I’M SICK AND TIRED OF BEING SICK AND TIRED!” Lol. But I’m influenced by people who are involved in the agriculture world: my colleagues, friends (especially from PVAMU College of Ag.), and Robert Harding, my business partner.

What is your favorite part about what you do? 

The ability to CREATE. Working with youth, having the opportunity to operate a business and movement off my name and credibility. I love connecting with people.

What is it like being an African American in Agriculture in today’s society?

It has its challenges being in agriculture period. Being an African American in Agriculture today is truly different. We make up a small number of people who are in the industry. Our approach is also not like every other race. I feel like in society; we are still the minority.

Statistics show that African Americans in Agriculture has declined drastically over the years. Why do you think this is, and what are some ways we can reverse this trend?

This can be reversed by focusing on the future of agriculture because, in the past, when you think of blacks in agriculture, the first thought that comes to mind is prison labor or slavery. We were brought here and have made many inventions and advances in this industry. We have to promote and create jobs. Make it cool again. Many ideas were stolen from us, but it is in our blood. Our four fathers paved the way for this next generation to survive. The future is 21st century Agriculture: Hemp, Cannabis, greenhouse, sustainable agriculture, technology, communications, controlled environment, genetics, drones, and environment.

What words of encouragement or advice would you give to someone interested in pursuing a career in Agriculture?

It’s something you’re either passionate about or serious, in terms of business. This is the best time to get involved in agriculture because it’s a shift in the industry. Figure out your niche. Connect with successful individuals.

Any additional words you’d like to share?

It takes rivers to make an ocean! No Pain. No Progression. Every loss is just a lesson! Food is Medicine. Empower women; they cook most of our food. Support your farmers and ranchers.

Jeremy Peaches
Farmer, Agriculture Consultant, Extension Agent
Houston, TX; by way of Greenville, MS

Jeremy.Peaches@yahoo.com

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