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NMAI A Step-by-step Guide Through the Repatriation Process

“Repatriation is the process whereby certain types of Native American cultural items are returned to lineal descendants, culturally affiliated Indian tribes, Alaska Native villages and corporations, and Native Hawaiian organizations. Human remains, funerary objects, sacred objects, and objects of cultural patrimony are legally defined categories of items that may be considered for repatriation. Additionally, in accordance with longstanding Smithsonian policy, the NMAI may return any objects acquired by or transferred to the NMAI illegally. This manual will guide you step by step through the repatriation process, from gathering the information needed to make a formal request to the successful repatriation of your cultural items.” (p.2)

 

“Repatriation of eligible materials within the NMAI collections is a five-step process initiated by tribes or lineal descendants. This guide will provide some assistance on these steps, as well as examples of letters required at key stages of the repatriation process.” (p.5)