Hundreds of local residents expected in Market Square at 2pm for the global 'March Against Monsanto' movement

The ‘Robin Hood’ spirit inspires Nottingham’s protest against Monsanto and GM foods

Over 200 people are expected to descend on Nottingham’s Market Square on Saturday 25 May at 2pm to protest against multinational agricultural biotechnology corporation, Monsanto, and genetically modified (GM) food, as part of the global ‘March Against Monsanto’(1) movement.

Research studies have shown that Monsanto’s GM foods can lead to serious health conditions such as the development of cancer tumors, infertility and birth defects. Furthermore, the protesters are concerned that companies, like Monsanto, will pressurise British farmers to choose GM and restrict their seed choices.

“There is good argument to suggest that it’s the corporations who are the real terrorists to be concerned about,” comments Roana Mahmud, for the Nottingham group. “The extent to which GM issues are not openly shared with the public is an outrage and must be addressed. And that time is now.”

Nottingham residents who unable to attend the demonstration are encouraged to get involved in, what has been dubbed by many, the first unstoppable revolution of the 21st century:

1. Firstly, sign the Avaaz online petition “Monsanto vs. Mother Nature”(2) and any other petitions against Monsanto and GM foods. It takes less than a minute to join the millions of voices who are have already voiced their support for this cause.
2. Secondly, learn about what is in your food and where it came from. If you can’t buy organic or visit local farmers markets – of which there are a good few to choose from in Nottingham(3) – then grow your own at home, or together in allotments and community gardens.
3. Thirdly, spread the word. Talk to your family, friends and neighbours so that they too can make better-informed choices about what goes on their plates and in their mouths.

“The march is only the beginning,” continues Mahmud. “This movement is the perfect example of ‘Think Global, Act Local’ and will serve to strengthen communities everywhere, with a renewed focus on the health and well-being of all. Nottingham is no exception.”

Cultural establishments, such as The City Gallery on Long Row, have been generous in offering space for organisers to plan the march and to discuss how best to address the global issue on a local level. “Protests and demonstrations are no longer the preserve of disgruntled students and so-called ‘tree-hugging hippies’,” concludes Mahmud, a Marketing Manager from Carrington. “There has been a real ‘Robin Hood’ spirit about it all. We’ve received a groundswell of support from all ages, ethnicities and backgrounds in Nottingham and are expecting a very diverse turnout(4).” The organisers are expecting a peaceful protest in the square with opportunities for onlookers to sign the online petition and to learn more.

Globally, over 200,000 people in 400 cities in over 50 countries are expected to take to the streets in solidarity to show their support for this cause.

References

(1)            The main website for the march: http://www.march-against-monsanto.com/

(2)            Online petition against Monsanto: http://www.avaaz.org/en/monsanto_vs_mother_earth_loc/

(3)            Nottinghamshire Farmers Markets: http://www.experiencenottinghamshire.com/eat-and-drink/farmers-markets

(4)            Demo Against Monsanto - Nottingham: https://www.facebook.com/events/416028268495081/