Racial Tensions Escalate as Black Farmers Face Intimidation and Violence in Colorado
In a disturbing turn of events, a family-owned ranch in rural Colorado has been targeted by racist neighbors who allegedly fired shots at the property over the weekend. The incident is just the latest in a long history of racial incidents faced by the owners of Freedom Acres Ranch, who have been fighting for their right to farm and live on their land.A History of Racial Tensions
Courtney 'CW' Mallery and his wife Nicole own Freedom Acres Ranch, a 1,000-acre property in the predominantly white community of Yoder. The couple has been living on the ranch since 2020, after being displaced from their home in Texas by Hurricane Harvey. They started farming as a way to address the food supply chain issues exposed during the pandemic and eventually purchased the land to start Freedom Acres.
A Pattern of Intimidation
The Malleys have reported a history of racial incidents on their property, including stalking, harm, intimidation, and hate. They claim that these incidents have been ignored by the El Paso County Sheriff's Office, which has failed to protect them despite being sworn to serve and protect. The couple believes they are being pushed out of their land and that there are efforts to remove them from the property.
The Drive-By Shooting
Over the weekend, shots were fired at Freedom Acres Ranch in what appears to be an effort to intimidate the owners. CW Mallery wrote on Instagram that 'something inside us has been shaken' and that they are carrying the weight of knowing that violence has found them. The couple is exhausted, worn down, and financially strained by the ongoing battle with their racist neighbors.
The incident at Freedom Acres Ranch highlights the deep-seated racial tensions in rural Colorado and the need for greater support and protection for Black farmers and landowners. As the Malleys continue to fight for their right to farm and live on their land, it is essential that we acknowledge the systemic issues that have led to this point and work towards creating a more inclusive and equitable society.
