Pennsylvania University Prepares to Repatriate Native Ancestors
Published Date: 12/18/2025
Notice
Summary
Mercyhurst University has finished checking its collection and found human remains linked to Native American tribes. Starting January 20, 2026, these remains can be returned to the tribes that they belong to. This process helps honor Native American heritage and follows important laws protecting their ancestors.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Tribes and Descendants Can Request Repatriation
Mercyhurst University says at least five Native American individuals' human remains can be returned to affiliated tribes or lineal descendants. Repatriation may occur on or after January 20, 2026, and written requests must be sent to Mercyhurst; any one or more of the listed Indian Tribes or a lineal descendant or other tribe/organization that shows by a preponderance of the evidence cultural affiliation may request repatriation.
Mercyhurst Identifies Specific Tribal Affiliations
Mercyhurst University determined cultural affiliation between the human remains (representing at least five individuals removed from the Riker Site in Tuscarawas County, Ohio) and a long list of named Indian Tribes and Native Hawaiian organizations. Mercyhurst will consider competing requests and must determine the most appropriate requestor before repatriation; joint repatriation requests are treated as a single request.
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