Sacred Baskets Return to Arizona Tribe After Years Away
Published Date: 2/23/2026
Notice
Summary
The Arizona State Museum at the University of Arizona plans to return 10 sacred saguaro wine baskets to the Tohono O'odham Tribe starting March 25, 2026. These special cultural items were collected long ago and now will be respectfully sent back. No money changes hands, but careful testing is recommended before the baskets are used again.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Return of 10 Saguaro Wine Baskets
The Arizona State Museum intends to return 10 sacred saguaro wine baskets to the Tohono O'odham Nation on or after March 25, 2026. The notice says these items are sacred/objects of cultural patrimony and that no money changes hands in the repatriation.
Recommended Hazardous-Substance Testing
Because the baskets were collected circa 1900 to the 1940s and may have received chemical treatments, the museum strongly recommends that testing for hazardous substances be conducted by a qualified professional before the items are returned to use.
Who May Request Repatriation
Any lineal descendant, Indian Tribe, or Native Hawaiian organization not named in the notice may submit a written request for repatriation that shows by a preponderance of the evidence they are culturally affiliated; repatriation may occur on or after March 25, 2026.
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