In keeping with holiday cheer, Monsanto Corporation has launched a new campaign asking the public to "Thank American farmers for their hard work." While there is no doubt that farming is grueling work and vital to both our personal lives and the American economy, I believe a more appropriate gesture this season is the issuing of an apology:

 

I apologize to the thousands of farmers who have been sued or fear legal action from Monsanto for "violating seed patents" when their crops become infested with naturally spreading, Monsanto-patented seed. I apologize to the farmers that once purchased seed from Monsanto, and because it is "terminating seed," or seed that cannot be replanted, have been corralled into extensive contracts with the company. I apologize to the farmers that are exposed to toxic chemicals daily while using Monsanto products, specifically the chemical Dioxin. I apologize that ancient farming traditions like seed saving and trading have been outlawed by Monsanto Corporation. Lastly, I apologize that we have allowed companies like Monsanto to mangle what was once a beautiful and venerable American profession and turn it into something that functions under fear and contract.

 

To leave a short message for America's farmers, go to Monsanto's Website.

 

For more information on the failures of Monsanto Corporation: