"As natives, we have a responsibility to protect indigenous plant species, and this includes preserving natural, non-hybrid varieties. Plant species like indigenous corn (maize), are endangered. The protection and conservation of indigenous, unmodified plant species is directly tied to the preservation of native cultures. Foods like corn are used in ceremony. Others have a cultural place in traditional gardening and Tribal food preparation. Many native plants are used medicinally, and are held in high esteem in the history and origins of Tribes. In Mexico, there is concern that genetically modified corn is contaminating and reducing the genetic variability of native corn, and that it poses a threat to the identity of the Mayans, since corn plays an integral role in the history of their people.

The absence of traditional diet has also been linked to disease epidemics in native communities like obesity and type 2 Diabetes. Restoring traditional foods to the diet reduces diet-related diseases among natives. Studies have shown that unmodified plant varieties have a much higher nutritional content than those that have been bred or modified for color, portability, or storage.

Ethically and legally, individuals and corporations should be held accountable for how they use biotechnology. However, if we care about food sovereignty—the right of indigenous peoples to define their own food and how they grow it, instead of being subject to international market forces—we must be proactive in the conservation of unmodified plant species. During times of economic upheaval, seeds provide future food security and may even be used as currency. Tribes should consider the economic benefits of conserving and stockpiling unmodified non-hybrid seeds that when stored properly, remain viable for decades."

Get the Story:
Ruth Hopkins: The Dangers of Genetically Modified Plant Species (Indian Country Today 12/2)

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