Food security activists would like the debate about genetically modified organisms (GMOs) to be back on the table.
Powell River Food Security Project and Pro-Active Nutrition are organizing a film screening and discussion to restart the conversation in Powell River about GMO health effects and what can be done to protect the local food supply. They hope the attention will strengthen Powell River Regional District’s commitment to opposing GMOs.
Genetic Roulette, a 2012 documentary about the health risks associated with GMO food, will be screened on Saturday, January 26. It is based on Jeffrey Smith’s 2007 book by the same name. Smith is an outspoken advocate trying to raise awareness about the issues and effects that surround GMO foods. The film explores evidence of the negative effects of GMO crops such as corn, soy beans, sugar beets and canola, which are all common ingredients in processed foods.
Following the film Colin Palmer, regional district board chair, and Arzeema Hamir, an agrologist, farmer and activist, will lead a discussion. Palmer will speak about the history of the regional district’s genetically engineered-free crop zone declaration and Hamir will speak about the battle to have Richmond declared GMO-free in 2012.
Hamir farms in the Comox Valley and is involved with the food security movement on the provincial level as a director of the Society for a GE Free BC, a social justice coalition of groups and individuals working to promote genetically engineered-free agriculture.
The regional district was the first region in Canada to declare itself a GMO crop-free zone in 2004, a declaration which has since provided a model for other regions and municipalities.
“A lot of people are concerned about GMOs in the global and local food supplies, and we need more education and action to ensure that our food is as safe as it can be,” said David Parkinson, coordinator of the food security project. “Richmond learned from Powell River when it came time for them to pass their resolution banning genetically modified crops, and we can learn from Richmond.”
Genetic Roulette will be screened at 1:30 pm in the Evergreen Theatre at Powell River Recreation Complex. Admission is by donation, with a suggested $5 donation to cover costs. All profits will go to Powell River Farmers’ Institute to help support Seedy Saturday, the institute’s annual seed-saving event.
For more information readers can contact Parkinson at 604.485.2004.
