What is the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act?

The Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA) is a federal law passed in 1990 that provides protection for Native American human remains, funerary objects, sacred objects, and objects of cultural patrimony. The law ensures that Native American tribes, Native Hawaiian organizations, and individual Native Americans possess the right to repatriate these remains and associated items. NAGPRA requires greater collaboration between Native American tribes, Native Hawaiian organizations, and museums to ensure the protection of these sacred objects and human remains. It encourages the repatriation of Native American remains and objects to their respective tribes. The law also provides certain criminal and civil penalties for those who fail to comply. In California, NAGPRA has had a great impact. Many local tribes have obtained part, or all, of the remains of their ancestors from museums. The law has also led to collaboration between tribes and museums, which has created a better understanding of the treatment of Native American remains and sacred objects. The law has created more protection for Native American remains and associated objects in California and across the nation. It has helped foster trust between tribes and museums and also helped tribes protect their sacred objects. It is also an important step in the recognition and protection of Native American culture.

Related FAQs

What is the Indian Reorganization Act of 1934?
What is the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act?
What is the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act?
What is the Indian Civil Rights Act?
What role do Native American treaty rights play in resolving disputes between tribes and states?
What are the legal rights of tribal members?
What is the Indian Health Care Improvement Act?
What is the Native American Tribal Sovereignty Act?
What is the tribal consultation process?
What are the benefits of tribal sovereignty?

Related Blog Posts

How Native American Law Impacts Tribal Sovereignty - July 31, 2023
Understanding the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act - August 7, 2023
5 Benefits of Tribal Participation in Federal Indian Law - August 14, 2023
What to Consider When Entering Into an Indian Country Jurisdiction - August 21, 2023
How To Draft an Enforceable Tribal Law - August 28, 2023