Please spread the following letter far and near. We would like hundreds, possibly thousands of signatures on this letter requesting that Monsanto's application for approval of their GMO wheat be denied. For questions, please contact:
Jim Diamond, M.D. Sierra Club Genetic Engineering Committee 85 Second St. San Francisco, Ca 94105 [EMAIL PROTECTED] --------------------------------------------------------------------------- Friends, Monsanto has applied to the FDA for commercial approval of genetically engineered wheat. This would have far-reaching effects on farmers, consumers, and the environment. Organic farmers will face genetic contamination -- industrial pollution with a life of its own. Conventional farmers will lose the right to save seed as Monsanto enforces its patents, and also will lose overseas markets because genetically engineered (GMO) grains aren't accepted. Prices will fall, as already has occurred with corn. We all lose as the DNA of "the staff of life" is adulterated by hacked, corporate-controlled genetic code whose chief rationale is to ensure the sale of more RoundUp. Both human health and the health of the environment may be adversely affected, and the right to choice will not exist. We'll also get more RoundUp in our diet. Wheat -- the amber waves of grain in the song -- are grasses, closely related to many wild relatives. Gene splicing will spread from farms into nature at large rapidly and with unpredictable longer-term results. For instance, other genes or alternative metabolic pathways can be affected. Whether you agree with what I've written or only part, whether you believe that we should hold up only a yellow flag or need a red stop sign, please consider signing our petition. We're seeking the broadest possible coalition of those opposed to making our daily bread, a resource developed since the dawn of agriculture, into Monsanto's - or anyone's -- cash cow. Thanks! Signatures should be sent to, Jim Diamond, M.D. (Postal address below) LETTER: OPPOSE GENETICALLY ENGINEERED WHEAT! COPY/PASTE THIS OR WRITE YOUR OWN Dear Secretary Veneman: Genetically engineered (also called GM) wheat raises concerns in many sectors, both domestically and abroad. Farmers and grain industry participants are concerned about market loss and risks to the United States' distinguished reputation for quality wheat varieties. In addition, farmers are concerned about agronomic impacts. Consumers are concerned about food safety and regulatory adequacy. Many citizens are concerned about environmental damage. Organic farmers are concerned about negative effects on the United States' successful organic sector. Not every organization or individual that has signed this letter shares every one of these concerns. However, for one or more of the preceding reasons we, the undersigned, oppose the introduction of GM wheat into the American food supply and seed supply. Overwhelming numbers of American farmers and consumers, as well as customers for American wheat overseas, have said that they do not want GM wheat at this time. We hope the American government will act democratically, heed the wishes of its citizens, and act in the best economic interests of farmers. We represent diverse constituencies and interests, but we are united in asking that you act to prevent the introduction of genetically engineered wheat into American food and fields. Signed: Individuals -- please send name, city, and State -- Groups and organizations -- please send a signed letter or an e-mail authorizing use of your organization's name -- to -- Jim Diamond, M.D. Sierra Club Genetic Engineering Committee [EMAIL PROTECTED] No addresses will be used for fund raising or shared. Permission is given to print or forward this message to others S-mail: Jim Diamond, M.D. Sierra Club Genetic Engineering Committee 85 Second St. San Francisco, Ca 94105 To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/ -- Fern Gale Estrow, MS, RD, CDN Private Consultant, Educator and Speaker 200 West 18th Street New York, NY 10011 212/691-5154 212/627-7641 (fax) [EMAIL PROTECTED] 2002-2003 Chair-Elect Hunger and Environmental Nutrition Dietetic Practice Group of the American Dietetic Association ______________________________________________________ The American Community Gardening Association listserve is only one of ACGA's services to community gardeners. To learn more about the ACGA and to find out how to join, please go to http://www.communitygarden.org To post an e-mail to the list: [EMAIL PROTECTED] To subscribe, unsubscribe or change your subscription: https://secure.mallorn.com/mailman/listinfo/community_garden
