LA County Museum to Return 16 Sacred Native American Artifacts
Published Date: 2/11/2026
Notice
Summary
The Los Angeles County Museum of Natural History plans to return 16 important Native American cultural items, like baskets and tools, to the tribes and Native Hawaiian groups they belong to. This repatriation can start on or after March 13, 2026, honoring the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act. No money changes hands, but this is a big step in respecting Native heritage and history.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Return of 16 Native cultural items
If you are a member of the Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation, the Los Angeles County Museum of Natural History intends to return 16 objects of cultural patrimony to groups with cultural affiliation. The 16 items are 14 baskets, one mano, and one metate, with some items collected from San Bernardino County and one from Riverside County.
Who may request repatriation
Any lineal descendant, Indian Tribe, or Native Hawaiian organization not named in the notice may send a written request to ask for the items. Requestors must show by a preponderance of the evidence that they are a lineal descendant or culturally affiliated in order to be considered.
Date and contact for repatriation requests
Repatriation may occur on or after March 13, 2026. To request repatriation, send a written request to Amy E. Gusick, NAGPRA Officer, Los Angeles County Museum of Natural History, 900 Exposition Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90007, or the email address listed in the notice.
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