Indiana U. Returns Hawaiian Sacred Leis: Culture Crosses Continents
Published Date: 1/28/2026
Notice
Summary
Indiana University plans to return eight sacred Native Hawaiian cultural items, like leis and ceremonial objects, to the Native Hawaiian group Hui Iwi Kuamoʻo. This repatriation can start on or after February 27, 2026, helping preserve important traditions. No money changes hands, but the move honors cultural respect and heritage.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Return of Eight Sacred Hawaiian Items
Indiana University plans to return eight sacred Native Hawaiian cultural items — four leis, one eke, one umeke, one pā, and one pū — to the Native Hawaiian organization Hui Iwi Kuamoʻo. The items were mostly acquired in 1966 and one item was acquired in 2003, and repatriation may occur on or after February 27, 2026. No money changes hands; the return is intended to preserve traditional Native Hawaiian practices.
Who May Request Repatriation
Any lineal descendant, Indian Tribe, or Native Hawaiian organization may submit a written request to Indiana University to repatriate these items by showing, by a preponderance of the evidence, that they are culturally affiliated. If competing requests are received, Indiana University must determine the most appropriate requestor; joint requests are treated as a single request. Repatriation may occur on or after February 27, 2026.
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Previous: 2026-01668, Notice of Intended Repatriation: Indiana University, Bloomington, IN
Indiana University plans to return two sacred Native Hawaiian cultural items to the Native Hawaiian group Hui Iwi Kuamoʻo starting February 27, 2026. These special objects, a ceremonial figure and a lei, are important for traditional religious practices. This repatriation honors Native Hawaiian heritage and shows respect for their cultural traditions.
Next: 2026-01670, Notice of Intended Repatriation: Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History, Santa Barbara, CA
The Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History plans to return about 46,656 Native American cultural items, like stone tools and shell beads, to the tribes connected to them. This repatriation will start on or after February 27, 2026, honoring Native American heritage and history. No money changes hands, but it’s a big step in respecting and restoring important cultural treasures.