About the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act
The Story of NAGPRA
In 1990, the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA) became law, securing Native American and Native Hawaiian rights over ancestral remains and sacred cultural items. This act resulted from collaboration between tribes, museums, and scientific organizations.
This video highlights the key events leading to NAGPRA's passage and its ongoing significance for Native communities, museums, and the scientific community today.
As told by Jack Trope, Executive Director, Association on American Indian Affairs.
Returning Native American and Cultural Heritage Items
Since 1990, the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA) has safeguarded the respectful handling and return of Native American human remains, funerary items, sacred objects, and items of cultural significance. This federal law recognizes that these important cultural items rightfully belong to their descendants, Native American tribes, and Native Hawaiian organizations.
NAGPRA ensures that human remains are always treated with dignity and respect. It also encourages ongoing collaboration and communication between museums and Native communities, fostering mutual understanding while acknowledging museums' vital role in preserving history.
Why NAGPRA Matters
NAGPRA reflects a broader movement toward recognizing and addressing historical injustices. It not only returns ancestral remains and cultural items to their rightful communities but also honors the traditions, values, and sovereignty of Native peoples. Through this process, we aim to correct the legacy of cultural disruption caused by removing these items.
Building Relationships and Trust
The spirit of NAGPRA is about more than just returning items—it’s about strengthening the bond between Native communities and institutions. By fostering open communication and mutual respect, we’re working together to preserve cultural heritage in a way that benefits everyone involved.
Our Commitment to Ethical Stewardship
We believe museums and cultural institutions must act as ethical stewards of history. Part of that responsibility includes ensuring that the items in our care are held with the utmost respect for the communities they represent. We are dedicated to meeting the standards of NAGPRA and supporting ongoing efforts to repatriate items that have deep cultural and spiritual significance.