Respect oral history

Studying my family history, some notable digs have peaked my curiosity, e.g., Kennewick Man, the Viking Chief boat burial in Scotland, Chief Joseph Cultural Resources Project between Grand Coulee Dam and Chief Joseph Dam, and the Viking Warrior burials in and around Dublin, Ireland.

Scientists and archaeologists continue to promote the traditional theory that “paleo-americans” – American Indians – colonized North America by walking across the Bering Strait ice bridge about 12,000 years ago. I really enjoy math and science, and our daughter is looking at these important subjects more favorably.

The ancient oral history in the Sinaikst (Arrow Lakes Band) is much older than the traditional theory of the archaeologists and scientists. Our tribal belief is that we originated here and could have walked elsewhere, just as easily as the theory (from Siberia). Until footprints with the toes pointing a certain way are located, I will still continue to honor and respect our oral history.

James Perkins

Colville