Anthropologists can finally begin the study of Kennewick Man:
A coalition of four tribes — the Umatilla, Yakama, Colville and Nez Perce — claimed the bones were covered by the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act and belonged to the tribes.
U.S. District Judge John Jelderks and the appeals court, however, ruled the tribes could prove no direct link to the bones and the act did not apply.
The tribes have appealed the most recent 9th Circuit ruling, but attorneys involved in the case and Jelderks’ office said a decision still is pending. Calls to tribal officials were not immediately returned.
Legislation remains under consideration in Congress that would allow federally recognized tribes to claim ancient remains even if they cannot prove a link to a current tribe.
But trouble looms – the legislation, carried by the idiot McCain – will effectively put a stop to further examination of America’s past.
See Progressive Reaction for more on K-man.
This action alert is especially important.
H/t to reader Ruth and blogger Moira Breen.