Hi Paul,

     Here in the USA we have a law called the Native American Graves
     Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA) that was passed in 1990.
     This law requires any museum or agency that receives federal funding
     to produce a summary of Native American unassociated funerary objects,
     sacred objects and objects of cultural patrimony in their collections
     and provide this information to tribes that may be culturally
     affiliated with these objects.  In addition, museums and agencies have
     to produce an inventory, in consultation with potentially culturally
     affiliated tribes, of all Native American human remains and associated
     funerary objects.  Upon the request of a lineal descendant, Indian
     tribe, or Native Hawaiian organization, a museum or agency must
     expeditiously repatriate human remains, funerary objects, sacred
     objects and objects of cultural patrimony if the object meets the
     definitions established in NAGPRA and if cultural affiliation is
     established with the requesting tribe.

     The above summary is only a very brief overview of this law.  For more
     information about NAGPRA, go to www.cr.nps.gov/aad/nagpra.htm

     Good luck on your paper.

     >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<

     Laura M. Mahoney
     NAGPRA Consultant
     Archeology & Ethnography Program
     National Park Service
     Washington, DC
     (202) 343-1095
     (202) 343-5260 FAX
     [log in to unmask]

     ----------------------------------------------------------------------

     Hello everyone.

     my name is paul willis.  While studying a masters in cultural heritage
     i am
     working  at a aboriginal research centre in alice springs, australia.
     The
     theme/subject matter of my final year thesis is to be on the question
     of whether  aboriginal (indigenous) artefacts should or should not be
     returned to
     their rightful owners.  i would like to know the members  ideas,
     feelings, or
     thoughts on this matter.  In addition, any relevant publications,
     journals, or
     papers that discuss this issue.

     Although, i am writing primarily on the life of ted strehlow and his
     work with
     the aranda (arrente) people of central australia, i do beleive that
     other
     institutions that house indigenous artefacts or items, would have to
     address
     this issue sooner or later to either hold onto or give back the
     objects.

     Any information, insights, thoughts, or  recommendations would be
     greatly
     appreciated.

     Thank you for your time.

     King regards

     paul willis

     research officer
     Strehlow Research Centre
     Email: [log in to unmask]