Protecting Archaeological Sites from the Heart: Mae Burnette talks about the ancestors who lived at the site and their understanding of the landscape. She explains how she thinks of archaeological sites as homes that protect their inhabitants—and how we need to protect these ancient homes and the teachings they can share with us.
I think of this place like an elder
Wilana Ortega (Cocopah) shares her relationship to the landscape and the idea of "culture being a path to wellness" her work and in her community.
The Impact of Development and Looting
Barnaby Lewis, Gila River Indian Community Tribal Historic Preservation Officer, discusses the impacts development has on cultural resources, as well as the lack of justice when people who desecrate sites do not receive proper punishment. Our research shows that despite thousands of reported incidents on public and Tribal lands in Arizona, these crimes are rarely prosecuted to the full extent of the law.
Nanda-Gikendan: To Seek to Learn
Anastasia (Ojibwe) teaches us about the difference between learning about the past through archaeology rather than from reading about it in books (history) or learning about it from an elder (oral history). This mini lesson is part of the Archaeological Resource Crime Ojibwe Word of the Week video series.
Protection and Prayer Before Visiting Archaeological Sites
Ramon Riley discusses how respecting the land is crucial for survival and good health. Smudging and other protection strategies can protect those who visit or work at sites. Pre-project blessings set the tone and create balance so the crew can go into work with a good mindset.
Restoring Balance After Destruction
Both archaeologists and looters can be referred to as ch’ndn in Apache—witches or devils who disturb the possessions of deceased persons. Archaeology doesn’t have to be destructive, especially when Ndee cultural values inform protection and preservation at sites. Repairing land disturbed by looters restores balance and protects Nígosdzán (Mother Earth).
Interview with Frankie J. Gilmore of the Navajo Nation
Frankie J. Gilmore, artist, and member of the Navajo Nation discusses his feelings about the desecration of ancestral places, the importance of education to counteract looting, and how listening can lead to greater understanding.
The Power of Ancestral Sites: Comments from Verlon Jose, Tohono O’odham Nation
When more than 100 ancient footprints were discovered in a 3,000-year-old agricultural field in Tucson, Arizona, Tribal members of all ages visited the archaeological site. In this video, Verlon Jose, former Vice Chairman of the Tohono O’odham Nation, expresses how these places confirm traditional teachings, encourage multi-generational learning, and stimulate conversations in the community. (Videography and editing by Bicktorious Media LLC. Additional video courtesy of Pima County. Learn more here).
“The Meaning of the Past”: Hopi Migration Traditions and Archaeology with Lyle Balenquah
Lyle Balenquah, Hopi archaeologist, ethnographer, and educator, discusses how the past contributes meaning to the present. For Indigenous youth, firsthand experiences of sites on ancestral lands can help build a better understanding of where they came from and where they’re going.
“They Are Still Here”: Hopi Migration Traditions and Archaeology with Lyle Balenquah
Lyle Balenquah, Hopi archaeologist, ethnographer, and educator, tells a story about a surprise visit from his paternal grandmother and uncle while he worked at Wupatki National Monument. He shares some of his grandmother’s observations about the site. “This is who we are—this is who you are.”
Visit With Respect
Filmed at Canyons of the Ancients National Monument and the Pueblo of Acoma, this video features five Native Americans of different generations and affiliations talking about their connections to prehistoric ruins and ways that we can visit them appropriately.
No Stone Unturned
This short film highlights the Choctaw community's long history of advocacy for their deceased loved ones and their dedication to advocate on their behalf since the passing of NAGPRA regulations 30 years ago.
Saving the Sacred
Discover how rapid urbanization and the looting of artifacts for sale on illegal markets have threatened to erase the long histories of the Koi and Habematolel Pomo tribes.
Aanikoobijigan: Archaeological Resource Crime Ojibwe Word of the Week
Anastasia (Ojibwe) teaches us the word for ancestor as part of the Archaeological Resource Crime Ojibwe Word of the Week video series.
Ayaangwaamizin: Archaeological Resource Crime Ojibwe Word of the Week
Anastasia (Ojibwe) teaches us the word for ancestor as part of the Archaeological Resource Crime Ojibwe Word of the Week video series.
Ganoozh: 1-833-ENDLOOT
Anastasia (Ojibwe) teaches us when to ganoozh or call 1-833-ENDLOOT if we see looting or vandalism of archaeological sites. Check out all 21 videos in the Archaeological Resource Crime Ojibwe Word of the Week video series on YouTube.