Oberlin Finishes Inventory, Returns Tribal Human Remains
Published Date: 1/13/2026
Notice
Summary
Oberlin College has finished checking its collection of Native American human remains and related items, linking them to specific tribes. Starting February 12, 2026, these remains and objects can be returned to the tribes. This is a respectful step to honor Native American heritage, with no costs mentioned for the public.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Repatriation Available After Feb 12, 2026
Oberlin College says that human remains (representing at least 12 individuals) and 24 associated funerary objects can be returned to tribes on or after February 12, 2026. The notice identifies the Absentee-Shawnee Tribe of Indians of Oklahoma; Eastern Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma; Match-e-be-nash-she-wish Band of Pottawatomi Indians of Michigan; Miami Tribe of Oklahoma; Shawnee Tribe; and the Wyandotte Nation as culturally affiliated.
Who May Request Repatriation
Requests for repatriation may be submitted by any one or more of the tribes named in this notice, or by any lineal descendant, Indian Tribe, or Native Hawaiian organization not named that shows by a preponderance of evidence cultural affiliation. If competing requests are received, Oberlin College must decide the most appropriate requestor before repatriation.
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Oberlin College has finished checking its collection and found Native American human remains and a textile linked to local tribes. Starting February 12, 2026, these items can be returned to the tribes who are connected to them. If you want to request the return, contact Oberlin College’s Anthropology Department soon!