NYU Dentistry Museum Identifies Ancestral Remains
Published Date: 5/28/2026
Notice
Summary
New York University’s College of Dentistry has finished checking its collection and found human remains linked to Native American tribes. These remains, from at least four ancestors, can be returned to the tribes starting June 29, 2026. If you want to request the return, contact NYU soon—this is a respectful step toward honoring Native heritage with no money involved.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 0 costs, 1 mixed.
Identified Native American Human Remains
New York University, College of Dentistry identified human remains representing at least four Native American individuals. The remains are linked by cultural affiliation to the Delaware Nation (Oklahoma), Delaware Tribe of Indians, and the Stockbridge Munsee Community (Wisconsin).
Specified Tribes May Request Repatriation
The Delaware Nation (Oklahoma), Delaware Tribe of Indians, and Stockbridge Munsee Community (Wisconsin) are identified as having cultural affiliation and may send written requests for repatriation. Repatriation may occur on or after June 29, 2026; requests must be sent to the NYU authorized representative listed in the notice.
Other Claimants and Lineal Descendants Can Apply
Any lineal descendant or any Indian Tribe or Native Hawaiian organization not named can submit a repatriation request if they show by a preponderance of the evidence that they are culturally affiliated. Requests may be submitted as of June 29, 2026, and must follow the written request process in the notice.
Competing Requests and Joint Repatriation Rules
If competing repatriation requests are received, NYU College of Dentistry must determine the most appropriate requestor before repatriation. Requests filed jointly are treated as a single request rather than competing requests.
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