I was excited to learn that the Obamas recently planted an organic herb and veggie garden at the White House and based on this CNN clip it would seem that Michelle Obama understands the importance of access to healthy foods grown locally. While this act may seem like an unimportant issue with the dramatic news headlines of the day, access to organic, locally grown organically farmed production could do much to heal the disease, and famine conditions we see globally. So I think it is an excellent idea that hopefully will continue to draw attention to sustainable agriculture and we should congratulate them for their efforts.

And while it would seem from this clip that the Obamas would be concerned about protecting and nurturing organic farming in the U.S., we need to remain vigilant in light of the legislation being fast tracked in the House and Senate that could CRIMINALIZE not only organic farming, but also home gardening. Can you imagine a day when your home grown summer tomatoes might be subject to search and seizure if not grown according to standards set by a federal body? Standards that have yet to be clearly defined with consequences that could include confiscation of assets and property. Some of my best memories of summertime meals revolve around trips to road side stands to stock up on quality, locally grown produce and raiding my grandmother’s backyard for the juiciest tomatoes and fresh mint.

Many feel Monsanto is behind the lobbying effort to push these bills through Congress and with it being fast tracked Congress may vote not understanding what is in the bill. President Obama’s appointment of Tom Visilak to head the USDA is also concerning in light of his previous relationship with Monsanto. For more information on this appointment please refer to OCA’s website by clicking here.

And if you are new to the virtues of organic foods, or wonder why organic farming must be protected or are not familiar with effects of genetically engineered foods in our bodies and our environment, please check out the following video “The World According to Monsato.”

Part 1 in the series.

Control oil and you control nations; control food and you control the people. – Henry Kissinger