Halloween and Day-of-the-Dead Celebrations take us back to the cemeteries, but the fall events also help us to recall traditions and celebrations of those who have lived (and died), while their final resting places and objects are still held with much honor, respect and the deepest of sacred value. We take this opportunity to recognize and develop an enduring respect and appreciation for diverse cultures.

Sacred Sites

A “sacred site” is defined as:

• Location on Federal land, identified by a tribe (or individual)
• Of religious significance or ceremonial use

Sacred sites are important for their cultural significance. Because the sites often involve ceremonies and/or burials, important (and valuable) items are buried there; so, they often represent intriguing possibilities for archeologists, historians and collectors. Items accompanying the burial sites (in particular) often include prized possessions, weapons and even ceremonial objects.

Important considerations when visiting a sacred site:

1. Don’t trespass on private property without permission.
2. Don’t take pictures without permission or authorization. Depending on the site (and the ceremonial significance), no images should be captured of the place or the sacred items.
3. Don’t leave any items behind. Trash and other items or memorabilia desecrate the site and show disrespect.
4. Don’t remove any artifacts or collectible items of any kind from the site.
5. Don’t disturb other individuals (or groups). They may be visiting a grave, participating in ceremony, or just visiting the site for its cultural significance. You do not have a right to participate in the ceremony simply because you are present.

Sacred sites demand our respect and care, even when they are not officially recognized. Although you may see what appear to be collectible items lying out in the open, that doesn’t mean you can just pick them up and/or make them part of your personal collection.

Sacred Site Collecting

Respect the items at a sacred site, but also be aware that items and artifacts from sacred sites are often available for sale by dealers, auction houses, or other private sellers. While you may be careful not to desecrate the ancestral sacred land, others may be more unscrupulous.

Obviously, you can’t single-handedly prevent the desecration of all Native American graves by eager treasure-hunter dealers, but you can check the origin of any items that you purchase, and refrain from purchasing those items that are meant only for sacred, ceremonial purposes.

• Verify that the item(s) did not originate from a burial or ceremonial site.
• Realize that some items are not intended for your use or collecting. Some even believe that disastrous consequences can befall anyone who disrespects or desecrates sacred lands or objects.
• Some ceremonial objects and displays should not be photographed. Show discretion and respect for cultural diversity. Wherever possible, request permission before taking pictures of that which is obviously ceremonial in nature.
• World cultures and religions all hold superstitions and beliefs regarding sacred objects and places of special significance. As you explore the possibility of expanding your collection(s) to incorporate a more diverse, international expanse, take cultural considerations into account.

While some of the concerns of cultural sensitivity may be foreign to our understanding, the basic tenants of cultural preservation and repatriation are easy to appreciate and may offer valid points for consideration in your own collection. Sacred objects have long been collected and consigned to museum displays and private collections. Some of the pieces are valued at great sums of money, and may even represent important archeological and historical details for a land and its people.

On the flip side, there’s the wish we all hold most dear—that our loved ones (cherished ancestors) be allowed to rest in peace, surrounded by ceremony and cherished possessions. For issues of this magnitude, we are left with more questions than answers, and many of these issues involve ongoing court battles. We will likely never be fully able to reconcile the conflicting interests and the monumental cultural and historical significance, but we can show our respect for the place, the people and the sacred—by showing great care when visiting a sacred site, and then by taking even more care when considering Native American collectibles for purchase.

• Sacred Sites
• Fallbrook: Sacred Tribal Burial Ground Bulldozed Early Thursday
• Lyng v. Northwest Indian Cemetery Protective Association
• Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act
• Respecting Non-Western Sacred Objects