Museum Ships Moccasins Back to Cheyenne – Sole-ful Repatriation
Published Date: 9/16/2026
Notice
Summary
The Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields plans to return a pair of moccasins to the Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes in Oklahoma, recognizing their deep cultural importance. This repatriation can happen starting October 16, 2026, and anyone with a direct connection can request the return. It’s a respectful step to honor Native American heritage and traditions.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 1 mixed.
Repatriation of Cheyenne-Arapaho Moccasins
The Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields intends to repatriate one object of cultural patrimony: a pair of moccasins that the museum connects to the Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes, Oklahoma. The moccasins were obtained in Montana by Mrs. Valette Miller White prior to 1936, and repatriation may occur on or after October 16, 2026.
Who May Request Repatriation
Any lineal descendant, Indian Tribe, or Native Hawaiian organization not named in this notice may send a written request for repatriation if they show by a preponderance of the evidence that they are a lineal descendant or culturally affiliated. The museum must accept such requests and may repatriate the item on or after October 16, 2026, after resolving any competing claims.
Museum Must Resolve Competing Claims
If more than one eligible requester asks for the same item, the Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields must determine the most appropriate requestor before repatriating the moccasins. Requests for joint repatriation count as a single request.
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