The state of Washington has countersued the Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe in a dispute over the reburial of hundreds of tribal ancestors.

The state says the tribe shares the blame for the handling of ancestors and artifacts that were discovered at Tse-whit-zen Village. The state says it went ahead with construction at the site because the tribe indicated nothing would be found.

The state also notes that tribal members took part in the excavation of the site once remains and items were uncovered.

The countersuit comes in response to a class action the tribe filed in August. The tribe wants to be compsensated for damages to the site.

Get the Story:
State sues tribe over reburial (The Seattle Times 10/5)

Relevant Links:
Tse-Whit-Zen Village News - http://tse-whit-zen.elwha.nsn.us
Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe - http://www.elwha.org
Washington State Department of Transportation - http://www.wsdot.wa.gov

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