La Sierra University Museum to Return Hawaiian Ancestral Remains
Published Date: 2/23/2026
Notice
Summary
La Sierra University Museum has finished checking its collection and found human remains linked to Native Hawaiian groups. These remains can be returned to the right communities starting March 25, 2026. If you’re involved, now’s the time to ask for repatriation and help honor these ancestors respectfully.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Native Hawaiian Remains Eligible for Return
La Sierra University Museum has identified the physical remains of at least one Native Hawaiian individual that are culturally affiliated with the Hui Iwi Kuamoʻo. The remains may be repatriated to eligible requestors on or after March 25, 2026, and written requests must be sent to La Sierra University at the address or email listed in the notice.
Who May Request Repatriation
Repatriation requests may be submitted by any of the Native Hawaiian organizations or Indian Tribes named in the notice, or by a lineal descendant or organization that proves by a preponderance of the evidence that they are affiliated. The museum will pick the most appropriate requestor if there are competing requests, and joint requests count as a single request.
No Funerary Objects or Hazards Found
The inventory states there are no associated funerary objects with the identified remains and La Sierra University records indicate no known hazardous substances are present. This means the remains can be handled and repatriated without special hazardous-material procedures according to the museum's records.
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