NY Museum Prepares to Return Native American Human Remains to Tribes
Published Date: 3/16/2026
Notice
Summary
The American Museum of Natural History has finished checking its collection and found human remains linked to Native American tribes. Starting April 15, 2026, these remains can be returned to the tribes that are connected to them. This process helps honor Native cultures and follows important laws protecting their heritage.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Repatriation Eligible to Tohono O'odham
The American Museum of Natural History identified human remains representing at least nine Native American individuals that it has linked to the Tohono O'odham Nation of Arizona. Repatriation of these remains may occur on or after April 15, 2026; written requests must be sent to Nell Murphy, American Museum of Natural History, 200 Central Park West, New York, NY 10024, email [email protected]. Any one or more of the tribal organizations named in the notice or a lineal descendant or tribe that shows cultural affiliation by a preponderance of evidence may request repatriation; if competing requests are received the Museum must determine the most appropriate requestor.
Pesticide Handling Advisory for Remains
Museum records show that in the past potentially hazardous pesticides were applied to items in the collection and records do not identify which objects were treated or which chemicals were used. People who handle these human remains or related materials should follow the advice of industrial hygienists or medical personnel with training in occupational health or hazardous substances.
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