Eiteljorg Museum to Repatriate Tlingit and Haida Cultural Items
Published Date: 5/28/2026
Notice
Summary
The Eiteljorg Museum in Indianapolis plans to return four special Native American cultural items, including a Bear Mask and a Chilkat Blanket, to the Tlingit and Haida tribes. This repatriation will start on or after June 29, 2026, honoring Native traditions and history. No money changes hands, but it’s a big step in respecting Native heritage and museum transparency.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Return of Four Tribal Objects
The Eiteljorg Museum intends to return four cultural items — a Bear Mask, a Raven Rattle, a Chilkat Blanket, and a Brown Bear Shirt — to the Central Council of the Tlingit & Haida Indian Tribes. The repatriation may occur on or after June 29, 2026 and is being done under the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA).
No Payment Required For Return
The notice states that no money changes hands as part of this repatriation. The four items will be returned without any payment being made between the museum and the receiving parties.
Who May Request Repatriation
Any lineal descendant, Indian Tribe, or Native Hawaiian organization not identified in the notice may submit a written request for repatriation if they show by a preponderance of the evidence that they are culturally affiliated. If competing requests are received, the Eiteljorg Museum must determine the most appropriate requestor; joint requests are treated as a single request. Repatriation may occur on or after June 29, 2026.
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