This Is The Story Of A Man Going Against A Giant Corporation

This is the story of a fourth generation farmer and seed cleaner who went toe to toe with giant corporation Monsanto. In this video, Michael tells the true background story behind this business, explaining in detail about the seeding fear that is present among local farmers.

Since Monsanto began selling their patented ‘Roundup Ready’ genetically modified (GM) seeds they have sued hundreds of farmers for patent infringement. Today, over 90% of the soybeans, corn and cotton produced in the USA are a product of Monsanto.

Monsanto has used heavy-handed investigations and ruthless prosecutions that have fundamentally changed the way many American farmers farm. The result has been nothing less than an assault on the foundations of farming practices and traditions that have endured for millennia, including one of the oldest, the right to save and replant crop seeds.

In 2003, Michael White was sued for patent infringement after unknowingly cleaning Roundup Ready genetically modified soybeans for a local farmer. Private investigators had him under constant surveillance, an intimidation tactic that effectively destroyed his family, his health and his seed cleaning business.

In 2006, after being cleared for a jury trial, Michael settled with Monsanto while maintaining the freedom to speak publicly about his case. Although confident he will win in court, Monsanto’s nearly infinite financial and legal resources would protract the case for years and cost millions.

Michael continues to farm using conventional seed while advocating for its conservation.

A film by Craig Jackson