Native Americans’ Suit Seeks to Block Cathedral

Two Native American groups sued the Community Redevelopment Agency and the Roman Catholic Archdiocese on Friday, seeking better protection for artifacts they believe are buried at the new cathedral site in downtown Los Angeles.

The legal challenge from the Shoshone Gabrielino Nation and Spirit of the Sage Council, a conservation group, is the latest snag in the $50-million Our Lady of Angels cathedral project, which is scheduled for dedication in September 2000.

The plaintiffs charge that the project violates a state law protecting cultural heritage, that building a church is inappropriate on land zoned for commercial and government use, and that the redevelopment agency acted outside its authority. The lawsuit has the potential to delay or halt the project, which is scheduled to begin early next year.

Workers digging trenches unearthed a human skull and other remains in 1957. Protest were sparked after the discovery came to light during preparation of an environmental impact report earlier this year.

“It’s an insult to our people. They’re imposing their religion on our burial ground, our villages,” said Vera Rocha, a chief of the Gabrielino Nation. She prefers that the site remain its current incarnation--a paved parking lot that serves many people.

The plaintiffs said they want more site investigation before construction begins. They also said that the project developers must improve communication with the members of the Shoshone Gabrielino Nation, said San Diego attorney Craig Sherman.