What is the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act?
The Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA) is a Federal Law that was enacted in 1990. It protects and provides a process for the return of Native American cultural items to their respective tribes or descendants. This includes human remains, funerary objects, sacred objects, and items of cultural patrimony. The law’s goal is to ensure that these items are treated with respect, and that they remain in their original location or are returned to their rightful owners. NAGPRA applies to all Native American artifacts or remains that are found on Federal, State, or tribal property. If an artifact or remains are discovered on private property, the law does not apply. The law also requires that museums, universities, and other institutions that possess Native American cultural items must inventory their collections and determine which items are culturally affiliated with a particular tribe or descendant. In New Jersey, a NAGPRA Review Committee was established to help resolve disputes between tribes and institutions that possess Native American artifacts or remains. The committee works to ensure that all involved parties are guided by the standards and procedures laid out in the law. In conclusion, NAGPRA is an important law that aims to protect and preserve Native American cultural property and ensure that cultural items are returned to their rightful owners. It is important that all parties involved are familiar with the law and its implementation in order to ensure that Native American artifacts and remains are respected and treated with dignity.
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