Phoenix Museum Prepares to Return Sacred Remains and Artifacts
Published Date: 11/17/2025
Notice
Summary
The Heard Museum in Phoenix has finished checking its collection and found human remains and 30 related items linked to Native American tribes. Starting December 17, 2025, these remains and objects can be returned to the tribes. This is a big step in respecting Native heritage and making sure these items go back to their rightful communities.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Return of 31 Funerary Objects and Remains
The Heard Museum identified the physical remains of at least one Native American individual and 31 associated funerary objects. These remains and objects are culturally affiliated with the Salt River Pima‑Maricopa Indian Community and may be returned beginning on December 17, 2025.
Who Can Request Repatriation
Written requests for repatriation may be submitted by any of the Indian Tribes or Native Hawaiian organizations listed in the notice, or by a lineal descendant or another tribe/organization that shows by a preponderance of the evidence cultural affiliation. Repatriation may occur on or after December 17, 2025.
Museum Must Resolve Competing Requests
If competing requests for repatriation are received, the Heard Museum must determine the most appropriate requestor before repatriation. Requests for joint repatriation are treated as a single request.
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