Contact:
Paul Towers,Pesticide Action Network
916-216-1082, ptowers@panna.org
April 16, 2012
Mom vs. Monsanto: Goldman Prize Honors Argentine Mother, Pesticide Reform Champion
San Francisco, CA — Earlier today, the Goldman Environmental Prize announced an award for Argentine mother Sofía Gatica who has worked tirelessly — even under the treat of violence — to protect children from the hazards of aerial pesticide spraying, especially Monsanto’s RoundUp products.
Thirteen years ago, Sofía’s newborn died after being exposed to pesticides in the womb. She and the “Mothers of Ituzaingó” went door-to-door collecting stories about health problems in each family and discovered the community’s cancer rate to be 41 times the national average. In addition, the mothers found high rates of neurological problems, respiratory diseases and infant mortality. As a result, the group led “Stop the Spraying!” demonstrations with partner organizations like Pesticide Action Network, and published materials warning the public about the dangers of pesticides. Their efforts gained traction with time as Argentina’s president ordered an investigation in 2008 that corroborated Sofía’s door-to-door findings.
Later, the Mothers of Ituzaingó won a municipal “buffer zone” ordinance, prohibiting aerial spraying less than 2,500 meters from residences. Despite few resources and real threats — including being held at gunpoint in her own home — Sofía and the Mothers of Ituzaingó continued to prevail, winning a case at the Supreme Court that placed the burden on Monsanto and other pesticide corporations to prove their products are safe before going to market. Sofía continues to expand her efforts across the country – including pursuing a nationwide ban on ingredients in Monsanto’s RoundUp.
"I find what Sofía has done to protect her children deeply inspiring," says Kristin Schafer, PAN's Senior Policy Strategist and mother of two. "Clearly her commitment moved the other mothers in her community to action as well, and by working together they won changes that will protect the whole community — and beyond."
Each year, the Goldman Environmental Prize honors six grassroots leaders from across the globe who work to “protect and enhance the environment.” Sofía Gatica, leader of the “Mothers of Ituzaingó,” will receive her award at an invite-only event later this evening.
Pesticide Action Network (PAN) is a network of over 600 participating non-governmental organizations, institutions and individuals in over 90 countries working to replace the use of hazardous pesticides with ecologically sound and socially just alternatives. PAN was founded in 1982 and has five independent, collaborating Regional Centers that implement its projects and campaigns.
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Available for interviews:
Kathryn Gilje, Co-Director, Pesticide Action Network North America: Kathryn@panna.org or 415-728-0172. Spanish-English bilingual.
Kristin Schafer, Mother and Senior Policy Strategist at Pesticide Action Network North America: KristinS@panna.orgor 415-728-0173.
