Are Utah's Native Americans getting thrown under the bus? I can't believe Utah Transit Authority would do that. However, the Utah Legislature recently passed a bill, HB179, that permits UTA to consider building a FrontRunner station in Draper on a 3,000-year-old Native American archaeological site.

When the legislation was being deliberated, there was no involvement of Native American leaders, whose cultural heritage and spiritual grounds stood to be affected, which is highly concerning. Most disturbing was the Legislature's failure to respond to a letter sent to all lawmakers from Rupert Steele, chairman of the Confederated Tribes of the Goshute Indian Reservation, even after it was introduced from the floor by Sen. Luz Robles, D-Salt Lake. Steele opposed HB179 because, "This site contains evidence of some of my American Indian ancestors and is a very sacred place and we have a very strong spiritual connection with the area. Damage will be irreparable and disrespectful to my ancestry."

According to Chairman Steele, he never received a response from a legislator or a UTA board member, even though a state representative also serves on the UTA board. Such an oversight by a legislative body to a Native American tribe shows disrespect and ignores the voices of those most affected by the legislation. So there is reason to be skeptical about UTA's intent to consider the public's interest and the spirit of state and federal laws created to protect Native American interests.

It seems lawmakers were eager to showcase the rich Utah heritage of Native American culture during the 2002 Winter Games and then forget about the Native Americans until the next time they can serve their political purpose. We take pride in protecting groups from religious persecution, yet seem to be dismissive when it comes to respecting the artifacts sacred to Native Americans. We say we live by the law but often ignore its intent.

UTA administrators have indicated they are very early in the process of making a decision on the site for the Draper station and plan to involve all interested parties in the decision-making. Given the actions taken by the Legislature and UTA representatives, there is reason for concern that the rights and interests of others may be an afterthought. Adding to the skepticism is the perception of conflict of interest of board members precipitated by the Legislature passing a law requiring elected officials be appointed to the UTA board. One of my most rewarding community service experiences was serving on the UTA board, because its focus was on serving the public's interest. It invited public participation and even sought out the smallest voice. I trust the current board members will abide by that core value.

Utahns know the importance of protecting one's heritage, especially when it comes to respecting a people's spiritual grounds and symbols. They are reminders of who we are and our beliefs. Native Americans continue to be an afterthought in the making of public policy. Their silence and respect for the earth and others should not be interpreted as a sign of weakness or not caring, rather as one of pride and struggle to maintain their culture, values and beliefs. UTA board and staff should not seek Native American participation in a token, condescending manner, and as an afterthought, rather as significant members of our community. And lawmakers should be respectful and listen to all citizens and follow the spirit of the laws they are sworn to uphold.

A Utah native, John Florez has founded several Hispanic civil-rights organizations; been on the staff of Sen. Orrin Hatch; served on more than 45 state, local and volunteer boards; and filled White House appointments, including deputy assistant secretary of labor and as a member of the commission on Hispanic education. E-mail: jdflorez@comcast.net.