Kids' Museum Gives Back Sacred Native American Artifact Today
Published Date: 12/19/2025
Notice
Summary
The Children's Museum of Indianapolis plans to return a sacred Hawaiian feather helmet called a mahi‘ole to Native Hawaiian groups starting January 20, 2026. This special helmet, used in important ceremonies and battles, holds deep cultural and spiritual meaning. The museum is working with the right communities to make sure this important piece goes back where it belongs.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Museum to Return Sacred Hawaiian Mahiʻole
The Children's Museum of Indianapolis intends to repatriate one sacred Hawaiian feather helmet (a mahiʻole) that was donated by Butler University in 1964. The museum states the mahiʻole has cultural and spiritual significance and identifies a connection to the Edith Kanakaʻole Foundation and Hui Iwi Kuamoʻo; repatriation may occur on or after January 20, 2026.
Who Can Request Repatriation and Process Rules
Any lineal descendant, Indian Tribe, or Native Hawaiian organization not named in the notice may send 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 museum's authorized representative and repatriation to an approved requestor may occur on or after January 20, 2026; the museum will decide among competing requests and treats joint requests as a single request.
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