Monsanto's popular herbicide Roundup is sold in Ultra form to the Pentagon, which assists Colombia in spraying the broad spectrum killer indiscriminately across suspected coca production areas. In practice, food crops are eradicated as well, or at least contaminated. This serves to drive civilians out of any area contested by the guerrillas and army and paramilitary organizations.

Nearly 100 people protested Monsanto's role at corporate headquarters in St. Louis, Monday morning, June 25. Kate McCoy from the Colombia Support Group told the crowd that "If a company sold chemicals knowing that they would be used to harm others, then they would be guilty of supporting terrorists. Monsanto knows that their chemicals are being used indiscriminately on civilians in Colombia."

Monsanto officials have refused to meet with activists for months, so six people tried to enter the building and were arrested instead at the door. The six refused bond and were jailed until Wednesday, when five pleaded guilty and were sentenced to one year probation plus costs. Maureen Doyle pled not guilty and awaits a trial later this month.

For more information, contact St. Francis House Catholic Worker at (573)443-0096.