Indian Givers

Two months later, the tribe voted Watahomigie and two others out of office. Among those winning election to the council was Carletta Tilousi.

Many sources interviewed for this story say it's understandable, but unfortunate, that the tribe has shut down all research projects on the reservation. Those sources note that legitimate scientific studies long have helped Native American tribes.

Valerie Sebring

Paul Rubin

Three scenes in Supai, on the floor of the Grand Canyon.

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More About

• Teri Markow
• Carletta Tilousi
• John Martin
• Native American Issues
• Mental Health

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But Paul Spicer, a professor in psychiatry at the University of Colorado Health Sciences Center (and an expert in Native American issues), says he appreciates why the Havasupai won't have anything to do with research right now.

"Absolutely shocking things have been alleged here," he says, "and hiding the true nature of some research projects from the tribe is a strong basis for a lawsuit. Because of this kind of thing, many tribes remain un-persuaded that improvements in health care are right around the corner, if at all."

New Times asked several Havasupai plaintiffs what they'd like ASU to do, short of cutting them a big check. Tribal vice chair Dianna Uqualla became tearful when trying to answer.

"First, I would like all of the blood returned to us," she says. "There are people, loved ones, who gave blood and who have passed away. But their blood is still out there somewhere, I think. Blood is very important to us. We need a ceremony with ASU officials present to bury that blood."

And Rex Tilousi, the park ranger who was lied to at the ASU lab, says he's not sure how to answer that question.

"All I know is I feel like we turned students into doctors, turned students into professors. All this education we got for so many people," Tilousi says. "I just don't see what we got out of all this."

E-mail paul.rubin@newtimes.com, or call 602-229-8433.