Saturday, May 23, a broad coalition of individuals and groups will gather in cities and towns all over the world, as part of a global March Against Monsanto. We will rally at Simms Park at noon to make signs and listen to music and speakers and the March will leave Simms Park at approximately 1:00 pm. We will walk along Comox Road, over the 17th Street bridge, along Cliffe Avenue and back to Simms Park.
=0D=0A=The intention of this March is to raise public awareness and bring increasing political pressure to bear regarding Monsanto’s corporate farming and business practices and to fight for labeling of foods that contain genetically engineered and/or modified materials. It has been estimated that 38 countries spanning 6 continents and 428 cities will be participating in the Global March Against Monsanto for a peaceful, non-violent, informational protest. 2015 has been declared the International Year of Soils by the UN General Assembly. The International Year of Soils aims to be a platform for raising awareness of the importance of soils for food security and essential eco-system functions. The theme for this year’s March will be protecting our soil and our planet. Why do we march? Research studies have shown that Monsanto’s genetically-modified foods can lead to serious health conditions such as the development of cancer tumors, infertility and birth defects.
=0D=0A=Organic and small farmers suffer losses while Monsanto continues to forge its monopoly over the world’s food supply, including exclusive patenting rights over seeds and genetic makeup. Monsanto’s GM seeds are harmful to the environment; for example, scientists have indicated they have contributed to Colony Collapse Disorder among the world’s bee population. What are solutions we advocate? Voting with your dollar by buying organic and boycotting Monsanto-owned companies that use GMOs in their products. Labeling of GMOs so that consumers can make those informed decisions easier. Repealing relevant provisions of the US’s “Monsanto Protection Act.” Calling for further scientific research on the health effects of GMOs. Holding Monsanto executives and Monsanto-supporting politicians accountable through direct communication, grassroots journalism, social media, etc.
=0D=0A=Continuing to inform the public about Monsanto’s secrets. Taking to the streets to show the world and Monsanto that we won’t take these injustices quietly. We will not stand for cronyism. We will not stand for poison.
=0D=0A=That’s why we March Against Monsanto.
=0D=0A=https://marchagainstmonsantocomoxvalley.wordpress.com/
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