University Plans Routine Return of Ancient Beads and Stones
Published Date: 7/22/2026
Notice
Summary
Sonoma State University is planning to return thousands of Native American cultural items, like stones and beads, to the tribes they belong to starting August 21, 2026. These items were found during local construction projects and have been kept at the university for decades. This repatriation respects Native heritage and helps protect important cultural history without affecting ongoing projects.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 4 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
70,589 Items Identified for Repatriation
Sonoma State University intends to repatriate a total of 70,589 lots of unassociated funerary objects. Repatriation may occur on or after August 21, 2026, and the university has determined these items are connected to Native American burial practices.
Who May Request Repatriation
Any lineal descendant, Indian Tribe, or Native Hawaiian organization may submit a written request for repatriation by showing by a preponderance of the evidence that they are a lineal descendant or culturally affiliated. Requests must be sent to Kirsten Twork at Sonoma State University, and if competing requests are received the university will determine the most appropriate requestor; joint requests are considered a single request.
Affiliation With Graton Rancheria Confirmed
Sonoma State University has determined that the cultural items described are culturally affiliated with the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria, California, and are reasonably believed to have been placed with or near human remains according to Native American traditional knowledge.
No Evidence of Hazardous Treatment
Based on records, Sonoma State University reports no evidence that the cultural items were treated with hazardous substances. Any additional items found later will also be repatriated from the collections discussed.
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Key Dates
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