Expert: Ian Smith - 1/26/2010

Question
I came accross several sites and a movie where it warns the audience that there are 'dead' people and may offend them because of their voices or images. I know the Amish do not like their picture taken, what about the Native people what are there beliefs of this? I heard they are not allowed to say their name when that person is dead, but why?

Answer
Right out of my area of expertise but I do happen to know a little bit about it.
The beliefs are that the spirit still lives and is a part of their lives thus their culture and spirituality respects that (and hopes others do).
Also, all land (as with most aboriginal peoples) is linked via spirits and ancestral stories.  This is actually an excellent way of knowing where you are once you know the stories.  Better than a GPS!
This is why they don't want people climbing things like Uluru (Ayers Rock) because it may upset the spirits.
All television stations in Australia carry a warning before they start showing aboriginal films or documentaries re the "dead" people.
Hope this helps you somewhat.
Cheers, Ian