Ohio Museum Plans to Repatriate Sacred Hawaiian Royal Artifact to Natives
Published Date: 3/2/2026
Notice
Summary
The Ohio History Connection in Columbus plans to return a sacred Native Hawaiian ceremonial object called a pololū to the rightful Native Hawaiian group starting April 1, 2026. This special item was donated back in 1978 and has a cool history linked to Hawaiian royalty. No money changes hands, but this move honors Native Hawaiian traditions and respects their cultural heritage.
Analyzed Economic Effects
1 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Return of Sacred Hawaiian Pololū
The Ohio History Connection intends to return one sacred Native Hawaiian ceremonial object (a pololū) to the Hui Iwi Kuamo`o. The item was donated on August 2, 1978, no money will change hands, and repatriation may occur on or after April 1, 2026. Lineal descendants or Native Hawaiian organizations may submit written requests and must show by a preponderance of the evidence that they are entitled to the item.
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