UC Berkeley commits to full repatriation of Native American ancestors

In a recent government meeting, UC Berkeley officials provided a comprehensive update on their ongoing efforts to repatriate Native American ancestors and cultural belongings, emphasizing a commitment to transparency and collaboration with tribal representatives. The university acknowledged past shortcomings in its engagement with tribes and outlined significant reforms made since 2021.

Key developments include the empowerment of tribes in the repatriation process, with a focus on respecting tribal knowledge and geographic affiliations. The university has shifted responsibility for repatriation efforts to the Chancellor's immediate office, led by a newly appointed repatriation coordinator. Additionally, tribal representatives have been included in hiring committees to ensure that their perspectives are integrated into staffing decisions.

The NAGPRA (Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act) campus committee, now comprising both UC affiliates and California Native American tribal representatives, has been active in approving repatriation claims, successfully reversing previously denied claims since 2017. Notably, in October 2023, Berkeley published a federal notice to repatriate 47% of the ancestors and belongings in its possession, with ongoing consultations expected to lead to the repatriation of over 7,600 ancestors.

The university has also allocated significant funding to support NAGPRA efforts, including financial assistance for tribes during the consultation process. Furthermore, the appointment of a tribal liaison aims to enhance communication and foster government-to-government relationships with tribal nations.

UC Berkeley's commitment to comprehensive repatriation is framed as a crucial step toward inclusivity and better service to California's diverse communities. The administration has pledged to prioritize these efforts and work closely with Native communities to ensure a respectful and effective repatriation process.