The state of Ohio, a land rich in history and natural beauty, holds within its borders ancient secrets etched into the very earth. Scattered across its landscape are the remnants of a civilization that thrived long before European settlers arrived: the Native American mound builders. These monumental earthworks, often serving as burial sites, sacred spaces, and astronomical observatories, stand as silent testaments to a sophisticated and complex culture. However, these invaluable historical resources are facing increasing threats, sparking a passionate movement to protect and preserve them for future generations. This article sheds light on the pressing issue of the preservation of Native American burial mounds in Ohio, focusing on the planned demonstration of unity held on July 4th, 2004, organized by the Native American Alliance of Ohio.
The Plight of Ohio’s Ancient Mounds
For centuries, the ancient burial mounds and earthworks of Ohio have been subjected to a variety of destructive forces. Agricultural expansion, urban development, and looting have all contributed to the erosion and outright destruction of these irreplaceable sites. In some instances, these sacred spaces have been desecrated for commercial gain. A particularly egregious example is the leveling of mounds to construct a country club and golf course. This act not only obliterates a significant piece of Native American history but also restricts access to these sites for both the public and Native American groups, allowing only limited visits twice a year. This disregard for the cultural and spiritual significance of these mounds has ignited outrage within the Native American community and among concerned citizens.
The issue goes beyond mere physical destruction. The practice of excavating human remains and artifacts from these mounds has also been a source of deep pain and anger. The article highlights the disturbing fact that human remains have been exhumed and stored in warehouses, treated as mere historical specimens rather than the ancestors of living people. The Ohio Historical Society (OHS), now known as the Ohio History Connection, has been at the center of this controversy, with accusations of mishandling and disrespecting Native American remains.
Adding insult to injury, allegations have surfaced regarding the sale of artifacts unearthed from these mounds for personal profit by certain members of the OHS. This blatant disregard for ethical considerations and the cultural heritage of Native Americans has fueled the demand for greater accountability and transparency in the management of these sites. The Join demonstration of unity on July 4th, 2004 to protect burial mounds sought to address these issues head-on.
The Native American Alliance of Ohio: A Call for Unity
In response to these threats, the Native American Alliance of Ohio organized a demonstration of unity on July 4th, 2004. This event was intended to bring together Native Americans, their descendants, and non-Native allies to express their collective outrage and demand action to protect and preserve these sacred sites. The call to action was clear: "Please come and help us, show your support and concern for the burial places of your ancestors. We are all related!"
The demonstration aimed to raise awareness about the ongoing destruction and desecration of the mounds and to pressure the state of Ohio to take concrete steps to safeguard these cultural treasures. The organizers emphasized the importance of both physical presence and financial support. Those who could not attend the demonstration were encouraged to contribute to the Native American Alliance of Ohio’s legal fund, which was established to support legal efforts to protect and preserve the mounds. These donations were tax-deductible, further incentivizing contributions.
The Controversy Surrounding the Ohio Historical Society
The Native American Alliance of Ohio has been particularly critical of the Ohio Historical Society’s handling of Native American remains and artifacts. The article notes that the OHS requested $8.2 million from the State of Ohio to build a warehouse to store over 6,500 human bones and artifacts excavated from the mounds. This request was met with skepticism and outrage by many Native American groups, who argued that the remains should be returned to them for proper reburial.
The article further alleges that the OHS has denied possessing any human remains when asked by Ohio Indian groups to return them for reburial. This perceived lack of transparency and accountability has eroded trust between the OHS and the Native American community. The OHS’s annual funding of $12 million from the State of Ohio, with a request to double that amount, has also drawn criticism, with some arguing that these funds could be better used to support Native American efforts to protect and manage their own ancestral sites. The Join demonstration of unity on July 4th, 2004 to protect burial mounds was, in part, a response to these perceived injustices.
The Demand for Reburial and Respect
The central demand of the Native American Alliance of Ohio is the return of all Native American remains held by the OHS and other institutions for proper reburial. The article quotes "All of the Indian groups that I have talked with want the remains delivered to us so that we can rebury our ancestors in a protected site and with the dignity and honors that they deserve." This sentiment reflects a deep-seated desire to reclaim control over the treatment of their ancestors’ remains and to ensure that they are laid to rest in a manner that is consistent with Native American traditions and beliefs.
The issue of reburial is not simply a matter of religious or cultural practice; it is also a matter of human rights. Native American groups argue that they have a right to determine the fate of their ancestors’ remains and that the continued storage and display of these remains in museums and warehouses is a form of cultural desecration. The Join demonstration of unity on July 4th, 2004 to protect burial mounds served as a platform to amplify this message and to demand respect for Native American cultural heritage.
Taking Action: How to Support the Cause
The article concludes with a call to action, urging readers to support the Native American Alliance of Ohio’s efforts to protect and preserve the ancient Indian burial mounds. The message is clear: "If you agree with this then please do what you can do to help make this happen. Your support either physical or financial will be greatly appreciated."
The article provides contact information for Mr. John Beckett and John Wills, individuals involved with the Native American Alliance of Ohio, encouraging readers to reach out for more information or to offer their support.
Beyond the Demonstration: The Ongoing Struggle
While the demonstration on July 4th, 2004, was a significant event, the struggle to protect Native American burial mounds in Ohio is ongoing. The issues raised in the article – the destruction of mounds, the excavation of human remains, the lack of consultation with Native American groups, and the need for reburial – remain relevant today.
The preservation of these sites requires a multifaceted approach, involving collaboration between Native American groups, state and federal agencies, archaeologists, and the general public. Increased funding for site protection, stricter enforcement of existing laws, and greater public awareness are all essential to ensuring that these invaluable historical resources are preserved for future generations. Ultimately, the protection of Native American burial mounds is not just about preserving the past; it is about respecting the cultural heritage and human rights of Native American people and ensuring that their voices are heard in the decisions that affect their lives. The Join demonstration of unity on July 4th, 2004 to protect burial mounds served as a crucial moment in this ongoing struggle, highlighting the importance of unity, advocacy, and respect for the past.