Hopi leaders are stepping up efforts to block auctions in France of ceremonial katsina, considered sacred by the tribe. With the backing of Arizona's congressional delegates, tribal leaders called on the Justice Department and other federal agencies last Wednesday to put more pressure on France to halt the sales.

Auctions of tribal objects are scheduled in France on June 1 and June 12.

"We need to bring all our katsina friends home to their rightful place on the Hopi lands," declared tribal Chairman Herman Honanie. "Hopi is absolute in its stance that these auctions must cease. We call on all local, state and federal agencies to aid our efforts..."