FR 2024-28489

The provided document is a notice from the National Park Service, detailing actions taken by the Robert S. Peabody Institute of Archaeology at Phillips Academy regarding the repatriation of Native American human remains and associated funerary objects. This notice is published in accordance with the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA). The main focus of the notice is on the cultural affiliation established between these remains and objects and several Native American tribes, including the Cherokee Nation and The Osage Nation, with the goal of returning these remains and artifacts.

General Summary

The Robert S. Peabody Institute has completed an inventory of certain human remains and funerary artifacts. They have established a cultural connection between these items and several Native American tribes. The process of returning these items, known as repatriation, can commence after January 6, 2025. The tribes or individuals seeking the repatriation of these items need to demonstrate a clear connection or cultural affiliation. Although the National Park Service issued the notice, the decision-making about the remains and artifacts rests solely with the Robert S. Peabody Institute.

Significant Issues

One significant concern noted in the document is the reference to potential hazardous substances associated with the human remains and artifacts. However, it lacks specific findings or measures taken to ensure safety, creating ambiguity about any potential risks. Moreover, the notice mentions an inability to locate certain information about these hazards, hinting at possible documentation gaps.

Another area that raises questions is the lack of detailed criteria or explanation regarding how cultural affiliations were determined. This lack of transparency may make it difficult for external parties to verify the legitimacy of the affiliations. Furthermore, the process for resolving competing repatriation requests is not thoroughly explained. This could result in challenges in decision-making due to the absence of clear guidelines.

Impact on the General Public

For the general public, this document highlights ongoing efforts to respect and rectify historical injustices against Native American tribes by returning their ancestral remains and culturally significant items. It also serves as an educational opportunity to understand better the provisions and implications of NAGPRA, a significant federal law aimed at ensuring the rights of Native American tribes are upheld.

Impact on Specific Stakeholders

Native American tribes directly benefit from this process, as they can reclaim significant ancestral remains and artifacts. The outcomes reestablish cultural and historical connections and contribute to the tribes' efforts to preserve their heritage. On the other hand, the ambiguity surrounding safety measures and repatriation processes may pose challenges for these tribes, possibly delaying the desired outcomes.

The Robert S. Peabody Institute bears the responsibility of ensuring these protocols are followed correctly. Their work, while providing an opportunity to reconcile with the past, also holds them accountable for maintaining transparency and addressing any issues related to safety and repatriation guidelines.

In summary, while the steps outlined in the document indicate progress towards justice for Native American tribes, there remain areas where further clarity and transparency could enhance the process and ensure that all parties, including the public, understand the actions being taken.