Sustainable West Milford screens 'GMO OMG' to packed room
WEST MILFORD — Earlier this month, Sustainable West Milford began its 2015 educational series with the screening of the documentary "GMO OMG," which exposes the increase in genetically modified organisms in our food supply. The presentation drew more than 60 people to the small classroom at Hillcrest where the screening was taking place. Organizers continued to set up more chairs as the room filled. Eventually, people stood around the perimeter of the room as they watched the documentary.
The film by Jeremy Seifert focused on what genetically modified organisms are, why consumers should be concerned and what people can do to protect the food they consume. It talked of huge food conglomerates that monopolize the selling of seeds, seeds that have been modified to resist pests and herbicides and to thrive outside of what is considered their ideal habitat. Seifert questioned what effects those modifications can have on our health and the health of our children.
He traveled across the country looking for answers; and he traveled around the world, talking to farmers and scientists. He spoke with people in poor countries who refused to plant the gifted GMO seeds. And he questioned whether it is possible to eat and avoid GMO food.
The discussion afterwards was led by Jim Walsh, eastern director of Food and Water Watch. He focused on what genetically modified organisms are, why the public should be concerned and what consumers can do to protect the food we eat.
Write to Sen. Cory Booker - Walsh said Booker is an ally in this and very close to being a champion for the cause. Encourage him to oppose the DARK Act. It is called the DARK Act - Deny Americans the Right to Know - because it would block federal or state action to require labeling of genetically engineered food. It was introduced by Kansas Rep. Mike Pompeo last year.
Volunteer with groups to fight for GMO labeling.
Pass municipal resolutions - Municipalities lend their support to causes by passing symbolic resolutions to send to their representatives. This can be done to oppose the DARK Act.
Write to state Sen. Stephen Sweeney and ask that he support GMO labeling for New Jersey.
Connecticut and Maine passed laws requiring genetically engineered labeling. More than 30 other states are taking up legislation to require GE labeling. Vermont is being sued by Monsanto, a giant in the GMO business, for its law to label GMOs.
Sustainable West Milford: What's next?
SWM's educational series continues on Monday, Feb. 16, at 7 p.m. at Hillcrest Community Center. Sustainable West Milford will be presenting a class on dehydrating and freezing food. Whether you use food from your garden, farmer's market or grocery store, you can make healthier snack and food options for you and your family. Learn to make fruit leathers, powdered vegetables or fruits, chips and so much more. Different dehydration methods will be discussed. The presentation will also include freezing (vacuum sealing) produce, meats and soups. Join the group to learn how to make your food dollars go further.
Donations to Sustainable West Milford are always welcome. For more information on this upcoming program and future presentations in the SWM series, call 973-723-0186.