What is the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act?
The Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA), enacted in 1990, is a law designed to protect Native American graves and artifacts, as well as other cultural items, such as masks and other objects of cultural patrimony, from being disturbed or damaged on federal or tribal lands in California and across the United States. The law also provides for the repatriation of Native American remains and artifacts held by federal agencies, museums, and other institutions. Under NAGPRA, Native American tribes have the right to request the repatriation of cultural items from museums or other organizations. However, the request must be made in writing, and the claimant must provide proof of their Native American identity, such as a tribal enrollment card, prior to the request being considered. The request can also include other evidence demonstrating that the cultural items belong to the tribe, such as oral history or a letter from a traditional leader. Once a request is approved, the organization or institution must identify and repatriate the cultural items to the appropriate tribe. Typically, the organization or institution is also required to provide a report and other documentation to the tribe that lists the items and any other relevant information. Additionally, NAGPRA requires organizations or institutions to maintain a record of all items repatriated under the law. Overall, the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act is an important law that protects Native American graves and artifacts, as well as other cultural items, from being disturbed or damaged. The law also provides a mechanism for Native American tribes to reclaim ancestral artifacts and remains from federal agencies, museums, and other institutions.
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