There is another area of common ground that USC still shares with Dr. Lotta, her clear vision – and dream – that she had for the future of our planet:

“….[My dream is] that one day the world will be a good place to live, not only for us in the North American continent but for everyone, everywhere in the world…. We are here for a function … that has been entrusted to us and this is to make the world more liveable and it lies in our hands and I am absolutely convinced that it can be done.” Click here to read more of Lotta’s writings.

Though she didn’t use the phrase herself, Lotta’s vision also included a very clear “social justice” message underpinning it:

“Scientists tell us there is no longer any excuse for human starvation, yet 2/3 of mankind remain hungry, while the world spends 150 billion dollars a year on armaments. Won’t you invest a constructive dollar in the fight against need and poverty.” Click here to hear her voice.

Lotta was never shy or afraid to voice her opinions or concerns about the conditions in which she found people in partner countries. Hers was a call to action – for governments, organizations and individuals to take a stand for human development and against war and injustice.

“I think that it’s one of the many, many roles of a voluntary agency to draw the attention of public opinion in a generous and rich, wonderful country like Canada. To the basic problems that humanity today is facing. And, so, an agency such as USC … that is one of our main assignments because Canadians want to know, they feel the responsibility which we have in a very important position of leadership.”Click here to read more of Lotta’s writings.

Since Lotta’s time, USC and its Seeds of Survival program have continued to have a long tradition of speaking out in support of farmers’ rights and the rights of women and children. We fight for a more just world, we oppose destructive forces like Terminator Seeds, we pose questions about the promotion of agrofuels and we raise awareness about the food, environmental and climate crises that the world is facing today.