Michigan University Prepares to Repatriate Ancestral Remains
Published Date: 12/19/2025
Notice
Summary
The University of Michigan has finished checking its collection and found that some ancient Native American remains and objects belong to local tribes. Starting January 20, 2026, these ancestral remains and items can be returned to the tribes. This is a respectful step to honor Native American heritage, with no costs or risks involved for anyone handling the items.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Ancestral Remains Eligible for Return
The University of Michigan has determined that human remains representing at least two Native American individuals and one associated funerary object are culturally affiliated with the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe of Michigan. These Ancestors and the object may be repatriated to an eligible requestor on or after January 20, 2026; competing requests will require the University to determine the most appropriate requestor.
No Hazardous Treatment Found
The University of Michigan reports it has no record or knowledge that the Ancestral remains or associated funerary object were treated with pesticides, preservatives, or other substances that would pose a hazard to the collections or to persons handling them. This means individuals handling these items are not identified in this notice as being at risk from hazardous treatments.
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