Black Ranchers Fight Hostility, Security Threat

0:00On April 9th, Black Ranchers Courtney and the Cole Mallory are reeling after a drive-by shooting near their Freedom Acres Ranch in rural El Paso County, Colorado. The incident happened over the weekend before April 8th and they shared a video on Instagram blaming it on years of tension with neighbors and local law enforcement. They bought the 1,000 acre property back in 2020, hoping to build a safe haven for black farming and community food access after. Hurricane Harvey displaced them, but right away they say harassment kicked in from property damage and animal killings to threats and racial slurs. The couple feels ignored by the El Paso County Sheriff's Office, accusing deputies of failing to protect them or even fueling the hostility. They've been worn down mentally, physically, and financially, with the latest shooting hitting like a gut punch to their sense of security. In 2023, both faced felony stalking charges from neighbor disputes, but prosecutors dropped them for lack of proof. Still, they've kept pushing their mission, hosting visitors, teaching youth, and fighting for black land ownership.

1:05Now, as they stand firm amid the fear, the Mallory's wonder how long they can hold on before this pressure forces them out, turning their dream ranch into a battleground.