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Tohono O’odham Claims Border Wall Destroys Sacred Graves

5/12/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Tohono O’odham Nation says the border-wall project is destroying burial sites.
Customs and Border Protection confirmed contractors disturbed a 1,000-year-old geoglyph at the Cabeza Prieta National Wildlife Refuge.
The tribe’s Cultural Affairs Office reported the La Ciénega site contains 40 graves, 28 cremation vessels and shell ornaments.
Tribal representatives argue the wall bisects land the nation has occupied, violating sovereignty and demanding repatriation and reburial of remains and artifacts.

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Story summary

The Tohono O’odham Nation says the border-wall project is destroying burial sites.
Customs and Border Protection confirmed contractors disturbed a 1,000-year-old geoglyph at the Cabeza Prieta National Wildlife Refuge.
The tribe’s Cultural Affairs Office reported the La Ciénega site contains 40 graves, 28 cremation vessels and shell ornaments.
Tribal representatives argue the wall bisects land the nation has occupied, violating sovereignty and demanding repatriation and reburial of remains and artifacts.