University of Michigan Readies Native Remains for Return
Published Date: 4/23/2026
Notice
Summary
The University of Michigan has finished checking and listing Native American ancestral remains and related items found at an old site in Michigan. These remains and objects are linked to specific Native tribes, and they can be returned starting May 26, 2026. If you want to request the return, contact the university soon—this is a big step in respecting Native heritage!
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Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Repatriation Available Starting May 26, 2026
The University of Michigan finished its inventory and determined that ancestral human remains (at least seven individuals) and 13 associated funerary objects can be returned. Repatriation to eligible claimants may occur on or after May 26, 2026; to request return, send a written request to the University contact listed in the notice.
Who May Request Repatriation and Priority Rules
The notice names specific Indian Tribes and Native Hawaiian organizations as culturally affiliated and says those tribes may request repatriation. It also allows (1) the Burt Lake Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians and Grand River Bands of Ottawa Indians to join requests as non-federally recognized groups if joined with a listed tribe, (2) any lineal descendant or other tribe/organization to request repatriation if they show cultural affiliation by a preponderance of the evidence, and (3) the University to decide among competing requests (joint requests count as one).
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