UC Berkeley to Repatriate 30 Native American Cultural Items
Published Date: 12/17/2025
Notice
Summary
The University of California, Berkeley plans to return 30 important Native American cultural items from San Bernardino County to the tribes they belong to, starting January 16, 2026. These items, like stones and seeds, have deep cultural meaning and were collected decades ago. This repatriation respects Native American heritage and involves no cost to the public.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
30 Cultural Items Returned to San Manuel
The University of California, Berkeley intends to return 30 Native American cultural items to tribes, and there is a stated connection to the Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation. The items include ground stone, worked stone, and one seed removed between 1948 and about 1965; repatriation may occur on or after January 16, 2026.
Who Can Request Repatriation
Any lineal descendant, Indian Tribe, or Native Hawaiian organization may submit a written request for repatriation to the University if they show by a preponderance of the evidence that they are a lineal descendant or culturally affiliated. Requests must be sent to the authorized representative at UC Berkeley and repatriation may occur on or after January 16, 2026; competing requests will be resolved by the University.
Potential Chemical Hazards Noted
The notice states that collections and collection spaces at the Phoebe A. Hearst Museum were treated with preservation and pest-control substances, some of which may be potentially hazardous, and that no records have been found indicating whether chemicals were used prior to 1960. Individuals handling or receiving the items should be aware of these potential hazards.
Repatriation Involves No Public Cost
The notice states the repatriation respects Native American heritage and involves no cost to the public. The return of the 30 items is informationally scheduled to occur on or after January 16, 2026.
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