Buffalo Science Museum Repatriates 37 Sacred Face Masks
Published Date: 2/11/2026
Notice
Summary
The Buffalo Museum of Science plans to return 37 sacred Medicine Face Masks to Native American tribes starting March 13, 2026. These masks, collected over many years from various sources, hold deep cultural importance. This repatriation respects Native traditions and strengthens museum-tribe relationships without any cost impact to the public.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Museum to Return 37 Sacred Masks
The Buffalo Museum of Science intends to repatriate 37 sacred Medicine Face Masks (30 wooden faces and 7 cornhusk faces) that it holds. The museum says the items have a cultural affiliation with the Seneca Nation of Indians, and repatriation may occur on or after March 13, 2026. The notice states this action respects Native traditions and does not impose any cost on the public.
Who Can Request Repatriation and How
Any lineal descendant, Indian Tribe, or Native Hawaiian organization can submit a written request for repatriation by showing by a preponderance of the evidence that they are a lineal descendant or culturally affiliated. Requests must be sent to Kathryn H. Leacock at the Buffalo Museum of Science (1020 Humboldt Parkway, Buffalo, NY 14211) or the email provided in the notice, and repatriation may occur on or after March 13, 2026; if there are competing requests the museum will determine the most appropriate requestor and joint requests are treated as a single request.
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