A Review of Hemp as a Sustainable Agricultural Commodity: Tools and Recommendations for Winona LaDuke’s Hemp Farm and Sovereign Native American Tribes

Abstract

This Task Force researched options for integrating economic and ecological sustainability into any society, focusing on the feasibility of creating a private hemp business that is led by Winona LaDuke in Minnesota. Hemp can be made into a viable alternative to a variety of goods. According to a prophecy from the White Earth Tribe, located in Minnesota, we are in “the time of the seventh fire”. This prophecy says that there will come a time when the Anishinaabe people have to make a choice between two paths. One is well worn, but scorched, and the other is less worn, but green. This narrative is inspiring Anishinaabe leaders and the general public to move toward that greener path. This includes activism, such as resisting oil pipelines that snake through indigenous areas and foster dependence on petroleum-based economies. This vision also includes investing in sustainable agriculture, one that brings healthier economic, social, and cultural opportunities to their people. A key step in walking that path is developing sustainable economies such as hemp production.