Uni Digs Up Native Remains for Tribal Return: WTF Museums?
Published Date: 8/13/2026
Notice
Summary
The University of Tennessee and the McClung Museum have finished checking their collections and found Native American human remains and items that belong to certain tribes. Starting September 14, 2026, these remains and objects can be returned to the tribes. This is a respectful step to honor Native American heritage, with no costs mentioned.
Analyzed Economic Effects
1 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Repatriation available to affiliated tribes
If you are one of the listed Indian Tribes or a lineal descendant, you may request repatriation of human remains and associated funerary objects. The University of Tennessee identified the physical remains of 14 Native American individuals and 156 associated funerary objects and determined cultural affiliation with the Alabama-Coushatta Tribe of Texas; Cherokee Nation; Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians; The Muscogee (Creek) Nation; The Seminole Nation of Oklahoma; and the United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians in Oklahoma. Repatriation may occur on or after September 14, 2026, and written requests must be sent to Dr. Ellen Lofaro, University of Tennessee, Office of Repatriation (5723 Middlebrook Pike, Knoxville, TN 37996).
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