David,

Your situation is truly a delicate one.  You might try working out an
alternative lingo with tribal members so that you have an indirect
description of the artifacts without actually using the words that are
inappropriate.  This might work IF you can use the alternative descriptors
without these words also becoming inappropriate simply from their
association with the sacred objects.  You'll have to check this one out with
the tribal members.   In working with Past Perfect, you have a very
circumscribed set of words that you can use, most or all of which will not
apply to sacred objects.  You do have the option of adding categories, which
might be your best bet.  As an added precaution to smooth the way and
perhaps protect from unanticipated pitfalls, you might have a smoke ceremony
and get a blessing for the computer.  Good luck and let us know how it turns
out.

Lynita


----- Original Message -----
From: "David Bingell" <[log in to unmask]>
To: <[log in to unmask]>
Sent: Tuesday, October 30, 2001 4:05 PM
Subject: Sacred computers


> I'm developing the database (via PastPerfect) for a
> tribe (no details, please).  We are beginning to
> receive NAGPRA related items and have many items in
> our collections that simply shouldn't be viewed by the
> general public.  We are arranging a tribal members
> only storage facility for these items.  Well, to make
> a long story short, as the collections manager, I need
> to accurately account for the physical location and
> condition of these objects -- but to use some of the
> words associated with these objects is a bit
> counter-intuitive to me.  The words are considered
> sacred, and to speak them or use them out of context
> would be inappropriate.  Do we sanctify our computers,
> or what?  Any help and/or suggestions would be greatly
> appreciated.
>
> Thanks!
> David
>
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