Re: [Paddlewise] Looting First Nations (was Trip Planning -- Northern California)

From: "Doug Lloyd" <dougl_at_islandnet.com>


> The wording on one of the web sites is a bit disturbing regarding old
> First Nation village sites. To me it smacks of insensitivity to First
> nations peoples. The Tofino Expeditions Ltd. Brochure statement is as
> follows:
> 
> "We land at several seldom visited ancient Kwagul village sites
> where, at low tide, the beaches still yield up eloquently flaked stone
> tools and blue glass trade beads of a past era. This is a wilderness
> journey to a rarely visited area; a true adventure of remarkable
> encounters and unforgettable images."
> 

Sounds like "Come steal with us!" to me.  I agree, Doug, these guys need
a kick in the butt.

Mike

PS - For those that don't know, most BC First Nations have never signed 
treaties with European or North American governments and are in (too) long 
and drawn out negotiations over land claims and settlements.  If it goes to a
referendum, as the right-wingers want, they'll get little or nothing.  Canadians,
I am ashamed to say, have a very poor history of dealing with First Nations 
and rich white folks looting their artifacts is a disgusting example of the 
continuing problem. 

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