Cal State Fullerton is taking significant steps toward the repatriation of ancestral remains and culturally sensitive items, as highlighted during a recent joint hearing of the Legislative Audit Committee and the Assembly Select Committee on Native American Affairs. The university, the only California State University in Orange County, has committed to returning these items with respect and urgency, aiming to significantly reduce its collection of ancestral remains over the next three to five years.

Currently, Cal State Fullerton houses over 3,500 archival boxes containing materials from approximately 274 archaeological sites, including the remains of at least 213 ancestors. The university has identified 134 boxes with culturally sensitive items, which tribal members have flagged for repatriation. By the end of December 2023, Cal State Fullerton expects to return the remains of 13 ancestors, marking a pivotal moment in its commitment to rectify past oversights.

The university acknowledges its previous failures in consulting with affiliated tribes and submitting required inventories to the Native American Heritage Commission. In response, Cal State Fullerton has hired a full-time repatriation coordinator and initiated consultations with around 50 tribes, holding monthly meetings to foster relationships built on trust. An advisory committee, including independent tribal members, has been established to guide the development of a campus-wide repatriation policy.

A recent milestone was achieved on August 4, 2023, when the university returned the remains of an ancestor from Kings County, a process that had been pending for over 53 years. This event was marked by a ceremonial blessing, underscoring the emotional weight of the repatriation process and the university's commitment to healing past traumas.

Cal State Fullerton's proactive measures reflect a broader commitment to accountability and transparency in its dealings with Native American communities, aiming to ensure that future actions align with principles of social justice. As the university moves forward, it seeks to honor its responsibilities and strengthen its partnerships with tribal representatives.