Messed up sending this, hope it's still of interest Dear Paul, Museums Australia have long debated this issue and there are policies in place to which all Australian institutions subscribe - basically it's been a dead issue for some time, though there are undoubtedly still areas of interest which could be explored, for instance the role and responsibilities of Aboriginal Keeping Places and their custodians, or conservation and storage issues for returned objects.... Contact Kay Soderland, Director, Museums Australia or Peta Landman, also at MA ( 02.9358 1760) for a copy of the policy document on return of indigenous artefacts. Or you could talk to the people at the Australian Museum (esp. Sheryl Connors who is the Aboriginal Liaison Officer 02.9320 6000) Good wishes for your thesis Heleanor Feltham Powerhouse Museum Sydney [log in to unmask] -----Original Message----- From: owner-museum-l [SMTP:[log in to unmask]] Sent: Wednesday, 20 January 1999 10:46 To: MUSEUM-L Subject: aboriginal artefacts 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] ______________________________________________________ Get Your Private, Free Email at http://www.hotmail.com