Wisconsin Uni Preps Return of Native Remains to Tribes
Published Date: 12/18/2025
Notice
Summary
The University of Wisconsin-Madison finished checking their collection and found Native American human remains linked to the Three Affiliated Tribes from South Dakota. Starting January 20, 2026, these remains can be returned to the tribes. This is part of a respectful effort to honor Native American heritage and follow the law.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Repatriation Available January 20, 2026
Human remains identified as at least one Native American individual, removed from Hughes County, South Dakota in 1940, may be returned to affiliated groups on or after January 20, 2026. The remains are identified as culturally affiliated with the Three Affiliated Tribes of the Fort Berthold Reservation, North Dakota.
Who Can Request Repatriation and How
The Three Affiliated Tribes identified in the notice, any lineal descendant, or any Indian Tribe or Native Hawaiian organization that shows by a preponderance of the evidence cultural affiliation may submit a written repatriation request. Requests must be sent to Elizabeth Leith at the University of Wisconsin-Madison Department of Anthropology (1180 Observatory Drive, Madison, WI 53706) or the provided email; if competing requests are received, the university will determine the most appropriate requestor before repatriation.
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