University to Return Sacred Pipe and Rattle to Sioux Tribe
Published Date: 12/18/2025
Notice
Summary
Augustana University in Sioux Falls plans to return 10 important Native American cultural items, including sacred objects like a pipe and rattle, to the Flandreau Santee Sioux Tribe. This repatriation will start on or after January 20, 2026, honoring Native traditions and history. No money changes hands, but it’s a big step in respecting and restoring cultural heritage.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Return of 10 Native cultural items
Augustana University intends to return 10 Native American cultural items (three sacred objects and seven objects of cultural patrimony) that have been determined to be affiliated with the Flandreau Santee Sioux Tribe. The three sacred objects are a pipe bowl, pipestem, and rattle; the seven patrimonial items include hammer heads, gloves, a spoon, a bowl, and a quirt. The repatriation may occur on or after January 20, 2026, and no money will change hands.
Who may request repatriation
Any lineal descendant, Indian Tribe, or Native Hawaiian organization not named in the notice may submit a written request for repatriation 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 Augustana University and repatriation to an approved requestor may occur on or after January 20, 2026.
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