Northern Colorado University to Repatriate Native American Human Remains to Tribes
Published Date: 5/12/2026
Notice
Summary
The University of Northern Colorado finished checking its collection of Native American human remains and found they belong to certain tribes. Starting June 11, 2026, these remains can be returned to the tribes that are connected to them. This is a respectful step to honor Native American heritage, with no money involved but important cultural care in action.
Analyzed Economic Effects
1 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Repatriation to San Ildefonso Begins
If you are a member or lineal descendant of the Pueblo of San Ildefonso (or a tribe that can show cultural affiliation), the University of Northern Colorado identified human remains representing at least seven individuals and determined they are affiliated with the Pueblo of San Ildefonso. Repatriation may occur on or after June 11, 2026, and written requests may be submitted by the tribes named in the notice or by any lineal descendant or tribe that shows by a preponderance of the evidence that they are culturally affiliated. If competing requests are received, the University of Northern Colorado must decide the most appropriate requestor, and joint requests are treated as a single request.
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