California plans to return 52 cultural objects to Indigenous communities
Published Date: 6/16/2025
Notice
Summary
The California Department of Parks and Recreation plans to return 52 important cultural items to Native American tribes and Native Hawaiian groups starting July 16, 2025. These items include baskets, skirts, whistles, and other traditional objects that hold special cultural meaning. This repatriation honors Native heritage and strengthens community ties without any cost impact to the public.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
52 Cultural Items Returned to Pomo Tribe
The California Department of Parks and Recreation intends to return 52 cultural items (including baskets, tule skirts, whistles, feathered baskets, and other traditional objects) to the Big Valley Band of Pomo Indians of the Big Valley Rancheria. The repatriation may occur on or after July 16, 2025.
Other Tribes or Descendants May Request Items
Any lineal descendant, Indian Tribe, or Native Hawaiian organization not identified in this notice may submit a written request for repatriation if they show by a preponderance of the evidence that they are a lineal descendant or culturally affiliated. If competing requests are received, the California Department of Parks and Recreation must determine the most appropriate requestor; joint requests are treated as a single request.
No Public Cost from Repatriation
The notice states that the repatriation honors Native heritage and strengthens community ties without any cost impact to the public.
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