SF State University Returns Tools to Graton Rancheria
Published Date: 1/13/2026
Notice
Summary
San Francisco State University plans to return several important cultural items to the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria, who have a special connection to these objects. This repatriation will start on or after February 12, 2026, and involves items like stones and tools from Sonoma and Marin Counties. No money changes hands, but this is a big step in respecting Native heritage and history.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Seven Cultural Items Returned to Tribe
San Francisco State University intends to repatriate seven objects of cultural patrimony to the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria on or after February 12, 2026. The items come from Sonoma and Marin Counties and include worked obsidian pieces, a core or drill material, a perforated phallic charm stone, two roof tiles, and a hopper basket mortar. No money will change hands as part of this repatriation.
Who May Request Repatriation
Any lineal descendant, Indian Tribe, or Native Hawaiian organization may submit a written request for repatriation to San Francisco State University by showing by a preponderance of the evidence that they are a lineal descendant or culturally affiliated. If competing requests are received, SF State must determine the most appropriate requestor; joint requests are treated as a single request. Repatriation to an approved requestor may occur on or after February 12, 2026.
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Key Dates
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