Sonoma State to Return 35 Funerary Objects
Published Date: 6/4/2026
Notice
Summary
Sonoma State University has finished checking its collection of 35 Native American funerary objects and confirmed they belong to local tribes. Starting July 6, 2026, these items can be returned to the tribes that they came from. This is a respectful step to honor Native American heritage, with no money involved, just care and timing.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Return of 35 Funerary Objects
Sonoma State University identified 35 associated funerary objects that are culturally affiliated with specific Wintun tribes. These 35 items (including modified shell, abalone, modified obsidian, groundstone tools, faunal bone, modified glass scrapers, and a historic button) may be repatriated to the named tribes on or after July 6, 2026.
Who Can Request Repatriation
Repatriation requests may be submitted by any one or more of the tribes named in this notice or by any lineal descendant or tribe/Native Hawaiian organization that proves cultural affiliation by a preponderance of the evidence. If competing requests are received, Sonoma State University will determine the most appropriate requestor; joint requests are treated as a single request.
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