UT Austin ready to return ancient Native American remains to tribes
Published Date: 4/9/2026
Notice
Summary
The University of Texas at Austin’s Archeological Lab has finished checking and listing Native American human remains and related items found in Texas. These remains belong to a Native American tribe, and they’re ready to be returned starting May 11, 2026. This means tribes can now ask to have these important cultural items sent back to them, with no cost or delays expected.
Analyzed Economic Effects
1 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Ysleta del Sur Pueblo Affiliated Remains Ready
The University of Texas at Austin’s Texas Archeological Research Laboratory (TARL) identified human remains representing at least one individual and four associated funerary objects (two faunal fragments and two non-cultural rocks) as culturally affiliated with the Ysleta del Sur Pueblo. Written requests for repatriation may be submitted to TARL and repatriation may occur on or after May 11, 2026; TARL will decide among competing requests. Send requests to Jessica Ulmer at TARL (1 University Station, R7500, Austin, TX 78712 or email [email protected]).
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