To all those who are involved in the desecration of Indigenous Natural Peoples' Village Sites, Ceremonial Sties and Sacred Burial Sites.

The Traditional Circle of Indian Elders and Youth has received disturbing reports form the Independent Traditional Seminole Nation of Florida. We have been told of many sites where burials were disturbed and repatriation blocked or made difficult because of the lack of federal recognition for the Independent Traditional Seminole Nation of Florida. This Indigenous Nation has held out for the true recognition of their traditional responsibilities. They have taken active steps, such as removing themselves from land claim settlements, to honor their connection to the ancestors.

The Circle recognizes the policies developed by the Independent Traditional Seminole Nation of Florida. These policies are sound and in accord with their sacred responsibilities. We draw attention to their statement that disturbing these sites will harm human life and the cycle of life.

It is especially onerous that there are those who will shop among Indigenous Nations that we federally recognized to sow seeds of discord as cover for their desecration. In over twenty years of gathering, the Circle has not heard a representative of traditional indigenous peoples speak in favor of disturbing these sites.

At the time of this statement we are especially concerned about the burial grounds given the name "Seminole Rest". This site is located at Cape Canaveral National Seashore. We call on all concerned to follow the direction of the Independent Traditional Seminole Nation of Florida in leaving this site undisturbed and providing a buffer around it.

It is with great appreciation for the efforts of the Independent Traditional Seminole Nation of Florida in protecting the Ancestors that the Circle presents this communiqué.

We are respectfully,
The Traditional Circle of Indian Elders and Youth