In May 2024 , the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) adopted a new treaty related to genetic resources (plants) and traditional knowledge (plant/ceremonial/ traditional ways). To evaluate whether the United States should sign and implement the WIPO Treaty, the United States Patent Trademark Office (USPTO) has planned virtual webinars and request for written comments.
Although the USPTO has requested responses to ten (10) questions, you can contribute by attending the consultation and telling your story and experience. This shows to the USPTO that the protection of plant medicines and plant knowledge are of vital importance to you and your Tribe.
If passed, the GRATK Treaty holds promise for the protection of Tribal rights to plants, plant knowledge, and other important resources. It will help create an opportunity for Tribal Nations and citizens to participate in legal and regulatory processes affecting our ways of life, culture, and traditions.
Click here to find out how to register for the tribal consultation and provide comment before the USPTO on Friday, March 28, 2025.
Tribal leaders participated in the USPTO consultation on March 18-19, 2025. We applaud the tribal leaders from across Indian Country who provided testimony before the USPTO. Read Navajo Nation Council Delegate Carl Slater’s press release regarding his participation.
Thank you.
Copyright 2025, NAC-State of New Mexico
