July 28, 2003

            Re: Native American Remains in SC

Dear Tribal Leaders:

            On July 25, 2003 at the office of the Commission for Minority Affairs, Mr. Jonathan Leader shared a recent letter issued by this organization regarding Native American human remains.  This letter is a follow up of the short public discussion, and formal request for your group's support in this matter.

            In the interest of all Indian groups of South Carolina, CIHA has issued a letter to the Catawba Indians requesting they relinquish their claim to Native American human remains in the state.  The intent behind the letter was the idea of relieving tribal leaders of the problem and to later turn over any remains recovered to the correct Indian group or area. 

            Once the Catawba Indians relinquish their right to claim the remains, CIHA will take the next necessary steps to recover the remains and return them to their respective Indian group and/or area.  We ask now that you show your support by issuing letters to the Catawba, courtesy copying CIHA, stating your support to CIHA in the matter.  We also ask that you submit your claim to CIHA in advance to human remains that may be recovered in advance to expedite repatriation of the remains.

            Thanking you in advance for your cooperation,

                                                                           Sincerely yours,

                                                                          S. Michelle Pounds

                                                                         Chief Executive Officer

MP/ms

cc:        Commission for Minority Affairs

            6904 North Main Street, Suite 107

            Columbia, SC 29203

            Jonathan Leader, State Archaeologist

            1321 Pendleton Street

            Columbia, SC 29208