Abstract

Diane Wilson’s The Seed Keeper (2021) highlights the pressing Anthropocene crisis and underscores the need to protect Indigenous cultural practices. This article critiques the harmful effects of corporations like Mangenta on Dakhóta lands, which result in ecological degradation and cultural loss. The novel’s characters—Rosalie, Gaby, and George—represent the struggle against corporate dominance, illustrating the significance of cultural diversity and traditional farming practices. Through its portrayal of the fictional company Mangenta, the narrative critiques agrarian capitalism and the detrimental impacts of industrial agriculture on Indigenous practices. The conflict between Mangenta’s promotion of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and the preservation of traditional methods like crop rotation and seed-keeping is central to the story. These Indigenous practices are vital for biodiversity and cultural continuity, standing in stark contrast to the degradation caused by corporate agriculture. Characters such as Ray Iron King advocate for soil health and sustainable practices, emphasizing the urgency of reclaiming Indigenous farming traditions. Ultimately, The Seed Keeper calls for seed-keeping and highlights the importance of nurturing ecological diversity to sustain both land and culture amidst the ongoing environmental and cultural crises.