College to Repatriate Beadwork Baskets and Bows
Published Date: 6/22/2026
Notice
Summary
Fort Lewis College in Durango, CO, plans to return 65 sacred Native American items like beadwork, baskets, and bows to the Ute and Southern Ute Tribes starting July 22, 2026. These objects are super important for traditional ceremonies and were collected over decades. This repatriation honors Native American culture and helps keep their traditions alive.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Return of 65 Sacred Items to Southern Ute
Fort Lewis College intends to repatriate 65 sacred Native American items — including beadwork, basketry, a rattle, bows, and a medicine kit — that have cultural affiliation with the Ute/Southern Ute. The repatriation may occur on or after July 22, 2026.
Who Can Request Repatriation and How
Any lineal descendant, Indian Tribe, or Native Hawaiian organization may submit a written request for these items if they show by a preponderance of the evidence that they are a lineal descendant or culturally affiliated. Send requests to Amy Cao, Fort Lewis College, 1000 Rim Drive, Durango, CO 81301 or by email to [email protected]; repatriation may occur on or after July 22, 2026, and Fort Lewis College will decide among competing requests (joint requests are treated as a single request).
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