Urgent call for action on Native American repatriation issues

In a recent government meeting, significant discussions centered around the repatriation of Native American ancestral remains and cultural items, highlighting ongoing challenges faced by the University of California (UC) and California State University (CSU) systems. Key speakers emphasized the importance of thorough tribal consultation and the need for trained repatriation coordinators to avoid mistakes that could hinder the repatriation process.

A representative from the CSU system stressed the necessity of not rushing the repatriation process, advocating for proper consultation with tribal governments to prevent sending remains to incorrect locations. The speaker called for a clear communication strategy regarding how tribal input will be integrated into the system-wide NAGPRA (Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act) policy, which is set for consultation in the fall of 2024.

Concerns were raised about the lack of adequately trained personnel overseeing repatriation efforts, with some coordinators reportedly unfamiliar with repatriation laws and best practices. This gap in knowledge has led to delays and complications for tribal governments seeking to reclaim their ancestors' remains.

Buffy McEwen, a tribal heritage preservation officer, echoed these sentiments, citing audit findings from 2019 and 2021 that revealed the UC's insufficient prioritization of repatriation efforts. Despite the issuance of updated federal regulations in January 2024, progress has been slow, and compliance with NAGPRA remains a significant hurdle. McEwen emphasized that without full compliance with federal requirements, repatriation cannot proceed effectively.

Both speakers acknowledged the complexities of managing large educational institutions and the financial challenges associated with NAGPRA compliance. However, they urged the chancellor's office to prioritize funding for repatriation efforts and to provide a clearer pathway for tribal governments to engage in the process.

The meeting concluded with a call for renewed commitment to addressing these longstanding issues, with hopes for tangible progress in the coming year. The discussions underscored the critical need for collaboration between state and federal entities to ensure that Native American tribes can reclaim their cultural heritage in a respectful and timely manner.