Keepers of the Treasures, Tribal Preservation, Keepers of the Treasures A Lummi elder guides a youth through a traditional name-giving ceremony. The name being bestowed has been passed through 15 generations. This report has been prepared in response to that directive. It is based on two formal meetings with Indian tribes, extensive study by National Park Service staff, and consultation with tribes, other Native American organizations, State Historic Preservation Officers, the Bureau of Indian Affairs, the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation, and other Federal agencies. In meetings and correspondence with the National Park Service, Indian tribes made clear their unique perspectives on historic preservation.
Tribes seek to preserve their cultural heritage as a living part of contemporary life.
This means preserving not only historic properties but languages, traditions, and lifeways. Preservation of heritage is seen as a key to fighting such contemporary problems as alcoholism and drug abuse, which flourish where society is in stress. Preservation can help to restore structure and pride to tribal society, providing direction from the past that is vital to the future. Each tribe is unique, and has unique preservation needs, but all can learn from one another, as well as from other participants in the national historic preservation program. In order for tribes to participate meaningfully in that program, it is necessary that they be treated as equal partners with the State Historic Preservation Officers and Federal agencies.