Oklahoma Museum Returns Sun Dance Pegs to Tribal Keepers
Published Date: 3/16/2026
Notice
Summary
The Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History plans to return four sacred Native American items, including Sun Dance pegs and medicine bags, to the tribes they belong to. This repatriation will start on or after April 15, 2026, ensuring respect for cultural heritage. No money changes hands, but the museum is taking a big step to honor Native communities and their history.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Museum to Return Four Sacred Objects
If you are a member or lineal descendant of the tribes connected to these objects, the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History intends to repatriate four sacred items — two carved Sun Dance pegs (NAM 09-06-248, NAM 09-06-249) and two medicine bags (NAM 09-06-228a-g; NAM 09-06-330) — with a cultural affiliation to the Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes. The repatriation may occur on or after April 15, 2026, and no money will change hands as part of this transfer.
Who May Request Repatriation
Any lineal descendant, Indian Tribe, or Native Hawaiian organization may submit a written request to get these items if they show by a preponderance of the evidence that they are a lineal descendant or culturally affiliated. Requests may be submitted and repatriation may occur on or after April 15, 2026; joint requests count as a single request, and if there are competing requests the museum will determine the most appropriate requestor before repatriation.
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