Arizona State Museum to Repatriate Remains and Pitcher to Local Tribes
Published Date: 12/16/2025
Notice
Summary
The Arizona State Museum has finished checking its collection and found one Native American individual’s remains and a ceramic pitcher linked to local tribes. Starting January 15, 2026, these items can be returned to the right Native community. This is part of a respectful effort to honor Native American heritage and follow the law.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 0 costs, 1 mixed.
Human Remains and Pitcher Eligible for Return
The Arizona State Museum identified the physical remains of one Native American individual and one associated ceramic pitcher that were donated in June 1933. These items may be returned to an appropriate Native community on or after January 15, 2026.
Specific Tribes Identified as Affiliated
The Arizona State Museum has determined there is a reasonable connection between the remains and funerary object and these communities: Ak-Chin Indian Community; Gila River Indian Community; Hopi Tribe; Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community; Tohono O'odham Nation; and Zuni Tribe. Any of those named tribes may submit a written request to receive the items.
Other Tribes or Descendants Can Request Return
Any lineal descendant or any Indian Tribe or Native Hawaiian organization not listed may also request repatriation if they show, by a preponderance of the evidence, cultural affiliation. Requests must be sent to the Arizona State Museum and may lead to repatriation on or after January 15, 2026.
Museum Will Resolve Competing Repatriation Claims
If competing requests for repatriation are received, the Arizona State Museum must determine the most appropriate requestor before repatriation; joint requests are treated as a single request. The museum is responsible for sending a copy of this notice to the tribes and organizations named in the notice.
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