Tribes To Protest Opening Party For Museum Downtown

LOS ANGELES (AP) — A museum recognizing Mexican-Americans' contribution to Southern California culture is holding its first official event amid controversy surrounding the treatment of human remains found during its construction.

Native American protesters in tribal garb say they'll demonstrate outside Saturday's gala celebration for the opening of the LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes cultural center. Guests paid between $1,000 and $100,000 to attend the event.

The tribes accuse Los Angeles County officials of allowing the desecration of a historic cemetery where they believe hundreds of their forebears are buried.

County officials declined to comment and a museum spokeswoman did not return messages.

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