Tennessee University Readies Native Remains for Tribal Return
Published Date: 11/18/2025
Notice
Summary
The University of Tennessee’s Anthropology Department has finished listing Native American human remains and related items from old archaeological digs. These remains and objects are linked to specific tribes and can be returned starting December 18, 2025. This means tribes can soon ask to have their ancestors and belongings respectfully sent back, with no cost mentioned.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 4 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Repatriation Opens December 18, 2025
If you represent an Indian Tribe or Native Hawaiian organization, repatriation of the human remains and associated funerary objects described in this notice may occur on or after December 18, 2025. Written requests must be sent to the University of Tennessee Office of Repatriation (contact provided in the notice).
Caddo Nation Identified as Affiliated
The University of Tennessee has determined there is a cultural affiliation between the human remains and associated funerary objects described in this notice and the Caddo Nation of Oklahoma. This identification links the 183 individuals and 86 lots of associated objects to the Caddo Nation.
Who May Request Repatriation
Repatriation requests may be submitted by any Indian Tribe or Native Hawaiian organization identified in the notice, or by any lineal descendant, Indian Tribe, or Native Hawaiian organization not identified in the notice that shows cultural affiliation by a preponderance of the evidence. If competing requests are received, the University of Tennessee must determine the most appropriate requestor; joint requests count as a single request.
No Hazardous Treatments Reported
The notice states that, to the best of UTK's knowledge, no potentially hazardous substances were used to treat any of the remains or objects listed. This information bears on the safety of handling and transfer.
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The Illinois State Museum finished checking two old funerary objects—skunk bones found in Illinois—and linked them to several Native American tribes. Starting December 18, 2025, these items can be officially returned to the tribes. This means respectful repatriation is on the way, with no costs or hazards involved.
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The University of Alabama at Birmingham has finished checking and listing Native American human remains and related items found at an old village site in Alabama. These remains and objects will be returned to the right Native tribes starting December 18, 2025. This important step helps honor Native American heritage and follows federal law, with no costs or deadlines for the public to worry about.