2026-21531Notice

Arkansas Museum Finishes Review, Clearing Path for Tribal Repatriation

Published Date: 10/22/2026

Notice

Summary

The University of Arkansas Museum has finished checking its collection of Native American human remains and related items and found they belong to certain Indian Tribes. Starting November 23, 2026, these remains and objects can be returned to the tribes. This is a respectful step that affects the museum, tribes, and anyone interested in Native American history.

Analyzed Economic Effects

2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.

Caddo Nation identified for repatriation

If you are a member or representative of the Caddo Nation of Oklahoma, the University of Arkansas Museum has determined a cultural affiliation and identified human remains representing eight individuals and 3,390 associated funerary objects for repatriation. These remains and objects may be returned on or after November 23, 2026; written requests should be sent to Dr. Mary Suter, Curator of Collections, The University of Arkansas Museum, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72701, email [email protected].

Who may request repatriation and dispute rules

The Caddo Nation of Oklahoma may submit written repatriation requests, and any lineal descendant or Indian Tribe or Native Hawaiian organization not identified in the notice may also request repatriation if they show by a preponderance of the evidence they are affiliated. If competing requests are received, the University of Arkansas Museum must determine the most appropriate requestor before repatriation; requests for joint repatriation are treated as a single request. Repatriation may occur on or after November 23, 2026.

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Key Dates

Published Date
Effective Date
10/22/2026
11/23/2026

Department and Agencies

Department
Independent Agency
Agency
Interior Department
National Park Service
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