Traditional Seed Steward’s Declaration
Traditional Seeds are the source of life, the foundation of agriculture and a precious gift that has been passed onto us by the ancestors from around the world for over 10,000 years. We, the Stewards of Traditional Seeds declare that the freedom to save and share seeds is not only our human birthright but also our moral obligation to future generations.
Traditional Seeds have sustained civilizations since recorded time and we believe it to be unwise, unnecessary and biologically irresponsible to trans-genetically modify the DNA of plants and animals. We, the Stewards of Traditional Seeds, honor and appreciate the living intelligence and innate abilities of seeds to organically adapt, evolve and sustain all life on Earth.
We, the Stewards of Traditional Seeds, are opposed to the patenting of plants and seeds. Our relationship with Traditional Seeds is a spiritual practice and we view any attempts to restrict a grower’s ability to save and freely exchange seeds as an infringement upon one of our most important freedoms.
We, the Stewards of Traditional Seeds believe that healthy soil, clean water and air quality are intrinsic to the well being of the Earth and all creation. Traditional Seeds have proven capable of growing resiliant, nutrient-dense and superior tasting food crops without the use of petro-chemical based fertilizers or toxic biocides.
Traditional Seeds play an especially important role in the physical and spiritual well being of Indigenous Peoples from around the world. We, the Stewards of Traditional Seeds support the seed sovereignty of “First Nation” Peoples and condemn all forms of bio-piracy and cultural misappropriation.
We, the undersigned Traditional Seed Stewards of the Earth, bring this Declaration to the attention of the United Nations General Assembly, government officials, religious leaders and to all people of the world in order to express our truth and share our deeply-rooted values which inspire us to honor, grow, preserve and share Traditional Seeds. We sincerely request you become actively involved in protecting the genetic integrity and unrestricted saving and sharing of Traditional Seeds and formally invite you to join us as we declare and celebrate 2025 as the Year of Traditional Seeds.
Peliti Seed Festival, April 26, 2025