How Our Past Seeds Our Future
Seeds of Our Past, Present, and Future
As Indigenous people to Turtle Island, our seeds are often tied to the cultural and historical identity of our diverse indigenous communities. These seeds carry the knowledge, traditions, and stories of each of our communities, passed down through generations. Preserving these seeds helps protect and honor the cultural heritage and agricultural practices of all our ancestors who came before us & cared for these seeds our millennia.
Duty to the Ancestors
Preserving Native American seeds is a matter of ethical responsibility and respect for indigenous knowledge and rights. Many Native American communities have faced historical injustices and dispossession of their lands and resources. Supporting seed preservation efforts is a way to acknowledge these injustices and work toward reconciliation and justice.
Food Sovereignty
Growing our traditional Native American seeds contributes to the promotion of food sovereignty for indigenous communities. Food sovereignty emphasizes the right of communities to have control over their food systems, including what they grow, how they grow it, and how they distribute it. By preserving their traditional seeds, Native American communities can have more autonomy over their food production and reduce dependency on external sources.
Conservation
We are a Native led 501c3 dedicated to the Native American seeds that represent a diverse range of plant species that have adapted to specific local environments over generations. Preserving these seeds helps maintain biodiversity, which is essential for ecosystem health and resilience. Biodiversity also supports food security by providing options for crops that can thrive in various conditions, reducing the risk of crop failure due to pests, diseases, or environmental changes.