How might Elders or Ancestors feel when scientists unearth ancient artifacts or human remains of Native Americans for study or display? by Anthony Gatewood

"Kennewick Man" Debate: Science vs Religion

agatewood4 — 2025-05-02 15:31:46 UTC

How might Elders or Ancestors feel when scientists unearth ancient artifacts or human remains of Native Americans for study or display?

Jonita Mark P. 1

2025-05-02 15:52:20 UTC

When I consider many Native Elders view the unearthing of ancestral remains of artifacts as a spiritual violation. I realize it disrepects their traditions, recalls painful colonial history, and disrupts the scared rest of their Ancestors. They seek respect, consuitation and proper return of these items.

DeMarco C p.1

2025-05-02 15:54:58 UTC

When I consider the elders/ancestors point of view, I realize that the scientists are somewhat doing a bad thing because the artifacts belong to us natives and they may do a bad thing to the artifact.

Peyton W P.1

2025-05-02 15:56:52 UTC

When I consider an elders point of view when scientists unearth ancient artifacts or human remains of Native Americans for study or display, I realize that they take it into great disrespect to their spiritual belief and cultural practices. As many elders and ancestors find their practices and beliefs very sacred and not something to mess with without the proper knowledge.

Aiyana Reede , P.1

2025-05-02 15:59:01 UTC

Tool # 4 When a scientists dig up a Native American remains, elders and ancestors would feel sad, disrespected. They believe these things are scary and should be treated really carefully, not put on display or shouldn't be studied without permission.

p.1 linzey mcintosh

2025-05-02 16:02:31 UTC

Elders feel disrespected when showing or displaying the ancient remains of tribal members. It's wrong in many ways especially to our people. They may be feeling a sense of disbelief or violation because they are displaying us like animals. Displaying our ancestors like worthless objects is likely the result of scientists who treat us like experiments and don't really care about how we feel. Just because they have free will does not mean they should show actual peoples' remains is outrageous.

Rudolph Tewawina P.2

2025-05-02 16:31:20 UTC

If the artifacts or remains were to be unearthed and shown for display, then I believe that elders of their respective tribe might feel ease and sad remembering the times there young and traditions were more seen.

Kishori B p.2

2025-05-02 16:32:34 UTC

When I consider many Native Elders view the unearthing of ancestral remains or artifacts as a spiritual violation. I realize it disrespects their traditions, recalls painful colonial history, and disrupts the sacred rest of their Ancestors. They seek respect, consultation, and proper return of these items.

Diana Longknife p.2

2025-05-02 16:33:40 UTC

When I consider the unearthing of ancient artifacts or human remains of Native Americans for study or display, I realize that elders or ancestors might feel deeply hurt, disrespected, and spiritually unsettled. These remains are not simply historical objects; they are sacred and represent strong connections to culture, identity, and the spirit world. For many Native communities, disturbing burial sites violates long-held traditions and beliefs, reopening wounds from a history of colonization and disregard for their humanity. Elders may see these actions as dishonoring their ancestors and fear that important spiritual balances are being disrupted. True understanding and respect must come through careful listening, consent, and partnership with Native people.

Khloe Thompson p.2

2025-05-02 16:34:41 UTC

The discovery and study of Native American artifacts and human remains by scientists can evoke a range of emotions in elders and ancestors. They might feel a sense of violation and desecration, as disturbing and resting places of ancestors is often seen as disrespectful in Native American cultures. Additionally, there could be concerns about the potential misuse or misrepresentation of cultural heritage.

Isabella Sippi P.2

2025-05-02 16:36:14 UTC

Many elders or ancestral communities feel a deep sense of pain and disrespect when human remains or artifacts are displayed in museums. These items are seen not as historical objects, but as part of living cultures and spiritual traditions. Displaying them without consent or context can feel like a violation of cultural values, identity, and dignity. Many believe that remains should be returned and honored to traditional practices. They also feel that the continued exhibition of these items reflects a lack of recognition for their communities' rights, histories, and the need for healing from past injustices.

Paul Miller P.2

2025-05-02 16:37:51 UTC

If the scientist dug up the Apaches clothes other stuff that's sacred,then put their clothes from our ancestors and elders on display in museum.Our elders and ancestors would feel a sign of rudeness that their stuff are sacred to them in the past in their culture.In the present scientists wouldn't care because that their died and doesn't care if their in a museum or their science lab to study them and putting their stuff for future to come to see how the Apaches used to wear.So our elders and ancestors would feel disappointment and desecration that their stuff on display.

agatewood4 — 2025-05-02 16:48:23 UTC

Tool # 7: If scientists or museums display ancient Native American remains for display or study, then the rights of all Native American tribes will be affected. Native American rights will be affected then what will likely happen is they won't be allowed to rebury their people or ancestors in accordance to their belief systems. What this means is that Native Rights and Sovereignty will be lessoned in the United States. By not allowing tribes to rebury ancient human remains or allowing scientists to study the remains of Native Americans and what may have happened thousands of years ago will be broken and lost to present day Native Peoples. If scientists or museum directors are allowed to study or display remains of ancient Native People, all Native Americans will lose their rights to follow their cultural teachings and respect for those who came before them.

Hydee Polk - P.2

2025-05-02 16:49:57 UTC

If our ancestors found out about what the scientists are doing after discovering Native American remains and artifacts of ours, then I'm sure they will not be pleased with it. I think they'd want the remains to be handed back to their tribe and buried properly in remembrance of their brave warriors, instead of on display for these white invaders amusement and have their weapons and clothing with them in their grave. Maybe they'd want them to keep the artifacts as a way to show others how Native Americans made their own useful items.

Daysha N. P.2

dayshanaltazan — 2025-05-02 16:53:06 UTC

Elders may feel deeply disrespected when scientific excavations ignore their ceremonies and beliefs about death, burial, and sacred relics because it undermines their spiritual and cultural values. The removal of artifacts and remains from tribal lands, which may never be returned, causes resentment and grief by depriving communities of their heritage

Kambria Elgo P.3

2025-05-02 17:30:51 UTC

When I consider the elders and ancestors point of view, I think they might feel really sad or upset when scientists dig up the ancient artifacts or human remains of Native Americans to study or put in museums. These items and remains are not just old things to them, they are part of their culture, family, and their history. It might feel like someone is taking something very important without asking. The ancestors probably want to be left in peace and the elders could be feeling like their traditions and beliefs are being disrespected.

Amare Olivas p.4

2025-05-02 18:10:08 UTC

our Elders or Ancestors would most likely disapprove scientists discovering native American remains and putting them on display as it could be a sign of disrespect for those native American remains they dug up and put on display

Who is the author of this? (No Name)

2025-05-02 18:17:28 UTC

Elders may be very upset about people who had found found native remains when they shouldn't have because those remains or clothing or anything that the native people had used is very meaningful and it is very disrespectful to take what shouldn't have been taken. Having these remains in a museum could make indigenous people very upset and it may take whoever owns these remains into legal trouble.

Myron Nosie P.4

2025-05-02 18:17:59 UTC

When I consider that many Native or Apache Elders might view the unearthing of our Ancestors remains, I realize that it disturbs and disrespect our and their traditions and recalls the painful colonial of our history, and that our Ancestors, will seek and respect, consultation, and the proper returns of these items and things.

tiara a p.4

2025-05-02 18:18:05 UTC

Many Elders and Native American communities feel deeply disturbed, disrespected, or hurt when scientists unearth ancient artifacts or human remains especially when it's done without consultation, consent, or cultural sensitivity. These remains are often considered sacred, and ancestors are viewed not as archaeological specimens but as family members who deserve rest and reverence.

vada patten p.4

2025-05-02 18:19:29 UTC

I think the ancient elders from long time ago would disprove the scientists because they could be wrong about what they see not what they prove. Scientists seem to always say stuff wrong about indians most of the time. I believe that's why museums display artifacts they discovered, but they don't really know what it is. Many scientists research our culture to try and find answers. Some even record legends like Geronimo who was an elder and medicine man for our people; he fought for our rights, and culture, and made a difference in our history. Many elders and young alike don't want fake history or studies made on our people.

Paul Begaye P.4

2025-05-02 18:19:33 UTC

When I consider the Elders or Ancestors point of view speaking from the cultural and spiritual perspectives of many Native American communities I realize they feel deeply disrespected, disturbed, or even grieved because when scientists unearth ancient artifacts or human remains for study or display, especially without consent or proper ceremony.They might have thought Indigenous cultures, ancestors are not considered specimens or remains because in a scientific sense, but living relatives whose spirits persist and require care and reverence. Disturbing burial sites or sacred objects can be seen as a violation of sacred relationships and responsibilities, potentially disrupting spiritual balance or causing harm to both the living and the dead.

Cory Cassa P.4

2025-05-02 18:20:22 UTC

When I consider the Native American elder's point of view, I realize how deeply and hurtful betrayed it must feel when scientists unearth ancestral remains or scared artifact without proper consultation or respect. For many Indigenous communities.

Dante Nosie P.4

dantenosie — 2025-05-02 18:21:12 UTC

When i consider our ancestors point of view of them being unearthed and disturbed for display or study they may feel angry or sad because scientists have desecrated their graves and stole their outfits, gear, and items for display that meant a lot to them and that was made for honor.

isaac salter p.4

2025-05-02 18:23:03 UTC

When scientists dig up our ancestors’ bones or sacred objects and place them in museums or laboratories, it feels like a deep violation. These remains are not just archaeological specimens — they are our relatives, people who once walked, prayed, and lived with honor on this land. To us, disturbing their rest is a disruption of their spirit's journey and a sign of continued disrespect. We have carried the pain of colonization for generations, and the removal of our ancestors from the earth, without our voice or consent, only continues that wound. If you truly wish to understand us, you must first learn to respect our dead, our traditions, and our right to protect what is sacred. I think the ancestors would feel very disrespected and mad.

Aalayah Polk P.4

2025-05-02 18:24:21 UTC

Elders or Ancestors may feel sad and upset because digging up human remains or sacred items goes against their traditions and disrupts the peace of their loved ones who have passed. In Native culture, being buried whole is very important for the spirit’s journey to the afterlife and keeping harmony in the community. When graves are disturbed, it feels disrespectful and can remind them of past wrongs done to their people. It also hurts because burial sites are special places that connect them to their ancestors, and disturbing them feels like losing part of their history. This lack of respect for their beliefs can leave them feeling hurt and wishing others would understand.

Blake Gooday P.4

2025-05-02 18:25:52 UTC

if elders from many many centuries ago would see how their culture is just plastered all over for people too see and adore i definitely feel like they would be intensely vehement feeling of just absolute anger and disruption too see their cultural artifacts being viewed upon when it should stay cultural ? for sure definitely just displeasured

Daniel Robinson P.6

2025-05-02 21:15:26 UTC

Many Native American Elders and communities feel disrespected and hurt when scientists unearth the remains of their ancestors or take sacred objects to study or display. In many Native cultures, burial sites are sacred, and disturbing them is seen as deeply offensive. Elders believe that their ancestors’ spirits should be left in peace, not put on display in museums. This is why laws like NAGPRA (the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act) were created—to help protect Native graves and return stolen items. From their point of view, these remains are not scientific discoveries; they are family members and sacred connections to their past. Elders feel that removing them shows a lack of respect for their culture and traditions.

William Ross P.6

2025-05-02 21:17:15 UTC

For many Native Americans, human remains and sacred objects are not mere historical artifacts; they are deeply spiritual, representing the physical presence and spiritual essence of ancestors. These items are considered part of a larger interconnected spiritual world where ancestors continue to guide and protect their descendants. The disturbance of these remains is often seen as a violation of sacred ground, and the remains are treated with the utmost reverence. Many feel that removing them for scientific study or display is akin to disrespecting their ancestors' spirits.

hope steele p.6

hopesteele — 2025-05-02 21:17:24 UTC

when i think about how my ancestors might feel about being dug up and putting my personal things on display. I would feel mad and sad at the same time cause no one wants to be dug up and put on display just for people to look at you I wouldn't want to dug up and have my clothes hanging up and have everything I own on display I would want to be at peace in the ground my ancestors must have been really sad that had happened to them or some of them

Ethan Goseyun p.6

2025-05-02 21:21:57 UTC

The elders could possibly be upset cause there artifacts are possibly in a museum being displayed they might feel disrepected

jolean thompson p.3

2025-05-09 16:54:48 UTC

Elders and ancestors of Native American communities often feel deep sadness, anger, and disrespect when scientists unearth ancient artifacts or human remains for study or display. These actions can be seen as violations of sacred traditions and spiritual beliefs, as many Native cultures regard burial sites as sacred and believe that disturbing remains disrupts the spirit's peace. Elders may also feel that such practices ignore the cultural significance and humanity of their ancestors, reducing them to scientific specimens rather than honoring them as people with enduring legacies.

savannah johnson p.4

2025-05-09 18:22:50 UTC

Elders and Ancestors of Native American tribes may experience a range of emotions, from sadness and mourning to anger and a sense of loss, when ancient artifacts or human remains are unearthed and studied by scientists. For many Native Americans, these remains and artifacts are not simply objects of scientific interest, but are considered sacred and imbued with the spirits of their ancestors. Disturbing these remains can be seen as a violation of sacred spaces and a disrespect for the deceased.

Carlie Jo Harney P.3

2025-05-09 22:13:37 UTC

Elders or ancestors might feel upset or disrespected when scientists dig up ancient artifacts or human remains of Native Americans. These items are often very sacred and connected to their beliefs and history. Some tribes believe that disturbing the remains of their ancestors is wrong and can bring harm or bad luck. They may feel that their culture is being treated like a science project instead of something to be honored. Many Native people want their ancestors to rest in peace and for their traditions to be respected

P.2 Elgin

2025-05-12 17:01:01 UTC

Elders or ancestors might feel disrespected and upset that scientists unearth their ancient artifacts or human remains, because those are important to the native american.

tiara a p.4

2025-05-12 18:07:24 UTC

Many Native American Elders and descendants of Ancestors whose remains or cultural artifacts are unearthed often experience a deep sense of sorrow, anger, or spiritual disturbance when these items are studied or displayed without consent or proper ceremony.

Kaydriana Elgo P.1

2025-05-12 18:10:15 UTC

The elders or ancestors may feel a wave of disrespect, anger, and sadness because they wouldn't want their ancient artifacts or human remains in a museum on display where people can just go and look at these ancient artifacts they are very sacred and connected to their beliefs

Xander p.4

2025-05-12 18:27:51 UTC

An elder or an ancestor will feel very upset upon seeing remains of a native American on display in a museum or anywhere because the remains have been taken without permission and it belongs to native land where the person has passed away. The native people who are relatives of this person who had passed away will most likely want to get into legal trouble about the remains to get it back to their original resting place.

Brylee P.3

bryleepreston — 2025-05-12 19:55:18 UTC

Elders and ancestors may feel deep sorrow and pain when sacred remains or artifacts are disturbed, as shown in the image. To many Native communities, these items are not just historical objects but spiritual beings connected to their identity and heritage. Digging them up without permission can feel like a violation of their beliefs and the peace of their ancestors. It reflects a lack of respect for Native ways of honoring the dead and maintaining sacred traditions. Many believe such actions should involve consent and collaboration with tribal communities to ensure dignity and respect are upheld.

Cameron Antonio p.4

2025-05-12 20:03:20 UTC

When I consider the Native American elders point of view, I realize that they may not like how they're own cultural artifacts are being displayed and also studied, they could possibly feel disrespected

anjelacka p.6

2025-05-12 20:04:38 UTC

From a Native American perspective, the unearthing of ancient artifacts or human remains by scientists often evokes deep feelings of sorrow, violation, and spiritual disturbance among Elders and descendants. These actions are seen not merely as academic pursuits but as breaches of sacred trust and ancestral dignity. Many Native communities believe that human remains are not just physical remnants but vessels of the spirit. The Apache, for instance, view masks and headdresses as embodiments of spirits; thus, removing them from their resting places is considered a desecration that disrupts spiritual harmony and invites societal ills like alcoholism and violence.

P.1 Davin A

2025-05-12 20:15:26 UTC

Elders or Ancestors might feel deeply disrespected or hurt when scientists unearth Native American remains or artifacts. Many Indigenous cultures see this as a spiritual violation, disturbing the peace of the dead. It can feel like a continuation of colonial disrespect, causing emotional pain and mistrust toward researchers and institutions.

Jayden Irving P.6

2025-05-12 21:14:12 UTC

Many Elders and community members from Native American tribes often feel deep sorrow, anger, and disrespect when scientists unearth ancient artifacts or ancestral human remains without consent. These feelings stem from the spiritual, cultural, and relational connections Indigenous peoples maintain with their ancestors and the land.

lukain p.6

lukainbylas — 2025-05-12 21:31:33 UTC

if scientists study or show ancient native American artifacts or remains without asking the tribes first, it can really hurt the feelings of elders and ancestors. these items aren't just old bones or objects- they are sacred and connected to real people. tool #7 explains that this can take away native Americans' rights to honor feel like their culture is being disrespected, and that history is being told without their voice. that's why it's so important to ask for permission and treat these things with deep respect

Aurora Yazzie P.6

2025-05-12 21:43:32 UTC

Elders or Ancestors might feel disrespected, sad, or angered when scientist unearth artifacts or human remains for study or display. Natives cultures believe in treating the dead with honor and that disturbing their rest is a spiritual violation. They are often seen as part of living traditions and ancestral connection, not just historical items. Scientific research can feel like culture disrespect or spiritual harm to native communities.

Adrian Phillips P.1

2025-05-13 15:41:23 UTC

The Ancestors and the Elders would feel disrespected, because that's sacred stuff right there, people shouldn't be digging up or bothering things that have been put away for a reason, and using it for display, that's worse, its not for the public if it was put away then it shouldn't be seen

adrin lopez P.1

2025-05-13 15:42:11 UTC

Elders or Ancestors of Native American communities might feel deeply disrespected, saddened, or even angered when scientists unearth ancient artifacts or human remains for study or display. Too many Native cultures, these remains and objects are sacred, and disturbing them can be seen as a violation of spiritual and cultural beliefs. It can feel like a continuation of colonial practices that ignored Indigenous rights and humanity. Many would prefer that such remains be left undisturbed or returned and reburied according to tribal traditions.

p.1 Ezra Iyua

2025-05-13 16:07:52 UTC

An elder or an ancestor will feel very upset upon seeing remains of a native American on display in a museum. The native people who are relatives of this person who had passed on will most likely to get it back and put it away.

P.2 Leon Thompson

2025-05-13 16:33:57 UTC

Elders and Ancestors within many Native American communities may feel deeply hurt, angered, or disturbed when scientists unearth ancient artifacts or human remains for study or display, seeing it as a violation of sacredness and disrespect for their cultural practices. These actions are often viewed as a continuation of colonialism, which has historically disrespected Native sovereignty, and they can perpetuate the trauma of dispossession and cultural erasure. For many Indigenous people, the disturbance of burial sites and remains is not just a physical act but a spiritual violation, disrupting the balance between the living and the deceased. Repatriation and respectful ceremony are often seen as essential for restoring peace and dignity, and Native voices must be central in shaping the narrative around these sacred matters.

shaughnessy p.2

2025-05-13 16:48:27 UTC

Elders and ancestors might feel a mix of emotions, including respect for the past but also concern or pain due to disturbing sacred sites and ancestors. Some may see it as a violation, while others might see potential benefits if done respectfully and with tribal consultation. Many Native American cultures emphasize the importance of treating the deceased with dignity and respect, regardless of the passage of time. Ancestors are seen as integral to the community's spiritual and cultural heritage,and their well-being is seen as important. The historical exploitation of Native American remains for scientific purposes has left a legacy of trauma and distrust within many communities.

Shaynna p.6

2025-05-13 21:09:04 UTC

Elders or Ancestors within many Native American communities would likely feel deep sorrow, anger, and a sense of violation when ancient artifacts or human remains are unearthed for study or display. For many Indigenous cultures, human remains and sacred objects are not just artifacts, but spiritual extensions of their ancestors, deserving of reverence and respect. The disturbance of these remains can be seen as a profound disrespect, undermining the sacred connection between the living and their ancestors. This practice, especially without consultation or consent, may evoke feelings of dehumanization, as it echoes a history of colonialism that treated Indigenous peoples as objects of study rather than as living, sovereign cultures. Moreover, such actions can sever the spiritual and cultural ties to ancestral lands and disrupt the healing process, as many believe that these remains and artifacts should be cared for and returned to their rightful place within their communities. Ultimately, the unacknowledged removal of these remains and sacred objects can perpetuate harm and trauma, rather than fostering understanding or respect.

marlaynah t. P.6

2025-05-13 22:20:39 UTC

The unearthing of ancient artifacts or human remains especially when done without consultation or consent- can be deeply troubling and even offensive. Elders and those who carry traditional knowledge often view these actions through a spiritual and cultural lens, not just a scientific one.Many Native American tribes regard burial sites and the remains of ancestors as sacred. Disturbing these sites is often seen as a violation of spiritual laws and a disruption to the rest and peace of the deceased. Ancestors are believed to have ongoing roles in the spiritual well-being of the community, and disturbing them can have serious emotional and spiritual consequences. Elders may see the practice of excavating remains or sacred items for display or study as an act of disrespect and dehumanization, particularly when the remains are placed in museums alongside objects, as if they were curiosities rather than people who once lived Elders may see the practice of excavating remains or sacred items for display or study as an act of disrespect and dehumanization, particularly when the remains are placed in museums alongside objects, as if they were curiosities rather than people who once lived.

P.3 Tianna C

2025-05-14 03:43:43 UTC

The unearthing of ancient artifacts or human remains of Native Americans for study or display can be a deeply sensitive and complex issue. Many Natives communities believe that ancestral remains and cultural artifacts should be treated with respect and dignity and that their disruptive to the spiritual balance and cultural continuity. Some may feel that such actions disregard traditional protocols and cultural values potentially causing harm to the ancestors spirits and the community's well being. Others might view It as an opportunity to share their history and culture with the world while ensuring that their stories and perspectives are accurately represented. Natives communities have varying perspectives on this issue and its essential to approach these situations with cultural sensitivity and respect. Many institutions and researchers now work to repatriate ancestral remains and artifacts collaborating with Native Americans communities to ensure that their cultural heritage is preserved and respected.

P.1 Aiyana C

2025-05-14 06:38:10 UTC

Elders or Ancestors might feel hurt or disrespected when scientists unearth ancient artificial or human remains of Native Americans for study or display. Digging them up without permission can feel like a violation of their beliefs and traditions. Many Native communities believe that the remains of their ancestors should be left undisturbed and treated with honor. While scientists may want to learn more about the past, it's important to do so in a way that respects the people and cultures connected to what is being studied.

Harold Cruz P.2

2025-05-14 16:24:14 UTC

The practice of collecting and displaying Native American remains and artifacts has a long history rooted in colonialism and the subjugation of Indigenous peoples.

This history has created a deep sense of mistrust towards institutions that handle these items, making it difficult for many Native Americans to view scientific study with neutrality or acceptance.

qaiani v p.3

2025-05-14 16:45:07 UTC

Looking back at old native things. During ancient times, natives would bury things into the ground, and when it comes to scientists, of course they'd wanna dig it up and look into it. But when it comes to Natives, they would find is disrespectful for there dead ancestors to be drugged up by scientists. Honestly, it would be a lot better to just leave the body or item in the ground, especially if they had a reason to leave something buried into the ground. Many people during the ancient times leave things behind, mainly in the ground where people shouldn't or couldn't dig up. The item could contain a evil entity or something attached to it. So I get why the natives would feel disrespected.

P.3 Nicholas W

2025-05-14 16:49:45 UTC

They may feel offended. They may feel that even after all this time, Native Americans and their culture are still not as respected as they should be. They would reasonably feel upset at the scientist for excavating on their land, uncovering their artifacts of their peoples remains, and then displaying it or taking it for themselves for studies.

2025-05-16 21:28:16 UTC

Tiago sanchez p.6