Sonoma State University Lists Petaluma Native Items for Return
Published Date: 4/9/2026
Notice
Summary
Sonoma State University has finished checking and listing Native American human remains and special objects found in Petaluma, California. These remains and items belong to local tribes and can be returned starting May 11, 2026. This means the university is ready to give back these important cultural treasures to the right Native groups, with no money involved but a clear timeline to follow.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Human Remains and Objects Identified
Sonoma State University identified human remains representing three Native American individuals and 10,042 associated funerary objects from multiple sites in Sonoma County, California. The University determined these remains and objects are culturally affiliated with the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria.
Who Can Request Repatriation
Repatriation may be requested by any of the Indian Tribes or Native Hawaiian organizations identified in the notice, or by any lineal descendant, tribe, or organization not listed that shows cultural affiliation by a preponderance of the evidence. If competing requests are received, Sonoma State University must determine the most appropriate requestor before repatriation.
How to Request Repatriation
To request repatriation, send a written request to Kirsten Twork at Sonoma State University, 1801 E Cotati Avenue, Rohnert Park, CA 94928, or by email to [email protected]. Repatriation of the described items may occur on or after May 11, 2026.
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