University Returns Ancient Mosaic to Tribes
Published Date: 6/4/2026
Notice
Summary
The University of California, Riverside plans to return a special cultural item—a mosaic made from ancient pottery shards—to Native American tribes starting July 6, 2026. This item holds deep cultural meaning and was donated by a family connected to the university’s desert research center. No money changes hands, but this is a respectful step to honor Native heritage and history.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
UCR intends repatriation to Agua Caliente
The University of California, Riverside has determined a mosaic made from ceramic sherds has a reasonable connection to the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians and intends to repatriate it. Repatriation may occur on or after July 6, 2026, and no money changes hands for this transfer.
Who may request repatriation and how
Any lineal descendant, Indian Tribe, or Native Hawaiian organization may submit a written request to UCR showing by a preponderance of the evidence that they are culturally affiliated. Requests must be sent to Katelynn Michaelson, University of California, Riverside, 900 University Avenue, Riverside, CA 92517-5900, or by email to [email protected]; repatriation may occur on or after July 6, 2026. If competing requests are received, UCR will decide the most appropriate requestor; joint requests count as a single request.
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