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
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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]
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