Michigan college repatriates ancient bones to Native tribes honorably
Published Date: 12/18/2025
Notice
Summary
Western Michigan University found more human remains linked to Native American tribes and is ready to return them starting January 20, 2026. These remains, from at least 17 people, were discovered during past digs and donations. The Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians and others are involved, and no money changes hands—just respect and care for these ancestors.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Repatriation of 17 Native Ancestors
Western Michigan University will make available for repatriation at least 17 Native American human remains (represented by over 770 bone fragments) beginning on or after January 20, 2026. The remains originate from the Brainerd site in Allegan County, Michigan, and no associated funerary objects were found.
Who May Request Repatriation
Repatriation requests may be submitted by the Match-e-be-nash-she-wish Band of Pottawatomi Indians of Michigan, the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians (Michigan and Indiana), the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe of Michigan, any identified lineal descendant, or any other tribe or Native Hawaiian organization that shows cultural affiliation by a preponderance of the evidence. If competing requests are received, Western Michigan University must determine the most appropriate requestor; joint requests count as a single request.
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