REQUEST FOR PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF THE PROPOSED DISPOSAL OF
CRYPTS AND TOMBS
AT
ST. MICHAEL'S CEMETERY
ST. MARTINVILLE, LOUISIANA
We understand that the Catholic Church proposes disposal of a number of the ancient cemetery plots and tombs of some of the Acadian pioneers in your part of southwest Louisiana.
Representing concerned genealogists and Acadian families, as guardians of the tragic and historically significant ancestral Acadian experience in Louisiana, we respectfully request that you explore with us how the proposed destruction of evidence of our historic past can be prevented.
We will strongly protest such destructive action unless a clear understanding can be reached that there is no reasonable alternative. To this date we have heard no convincing requirement that such action is mandated by unmanageable circumstances.
We accordingly suggest that a public meeting be scheduled, to be attended by interested parties and representatives of the press and broadcast action by the Catholic Church. In addition, it would facilitate probing alternative mutual actions that could prevent an unforgiveable loss of valuable genealogical and historical evidence.
The actions that we understand have been taken to date, although possibly meeting present legal requirements, seem to us to fall considerably short of due respect for our predecessors.
Copies of this request are being forward to the press and other media in your area to ensure broad public awareness of the issue.
We would appreciate a timely reply assenting to a proposed review of this matter, which we hold to be of great public concern.
Sincerely,
"Rest in Peace"
Annette Eschete
Andr� Hunter Courville
Sign the Petition