FR 2025-04370

The document originates from the National Park Service and serves as a notice concerning the repatriation of Native American human remains and associated funerary objects. This notice, anchored in the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA), highlights the completion of an inventory by the University of Tennessee's Department of Anthropology and the Kansas State Historical Society. It is determined that these remains and objects, found in Meade County, Kansas, are culturally affiliated with the Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes in Oklahoma. The document sets forth that the repatriation process may begin on April 17, 2025, and outlines the pathway for tribes or lineal descendants to claim the remains and objects.

General Summary

The Federal Register notice communicates a significant decision regarding the return of Native American remains and artifacts to their rightful tribes. It notes that the remains represent at least four individuals and that there are 66 associated funerary objects, which include a variety of items such as pottery, metal, and stone tools. These items were excavated in the 1960s, with some pieces being held by various entities before being ultimately housed by the Kansas State Historical Society and potentially the University of Tennessee.

Significant Issues or Concerns

Several concerns emerge from the document. Firstly, while it acknowledges competing claims for repatriation, it lacks detail on how such claims will be judged fairly and transparently, potentially leading to ambiguity in decision-making. Additionally, the notice relies on tribal consultation, supported by expert opinion, geographical, historical, and oral information, but does not elaborate on the criteria or the process for these consultations, which can prompt questions about transparency.

Moreover, while the notice mentions that additional information can be found in related records, it does not indicate how these records can be accessed by interested parties, potentially limiting the transparency and accessibility of the decision-making process.

Impact on the Public

This notice embodies an essential step in respecting and acknowledging cultural heritage by returning human remains and artifacts to the tribes to which they belong. It emphasizes the importance of reconciliation and justice for Native American tribes, serving as a model for similar initiatives nationwide. Members of the public who are interested in historical preservation and cultural justice might view this action as a pivotal movement towards restoring dignity and respect to Indigenous communities.

Impact on Specific Stakeholders

The Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes, identified as culturally affiliated with the remains and artifacts, stand to benefit significantly from this notice. Repatriating these items reflects an acknowledgment of their cultural heritage rights and allows these communities to honor their ancestors appropriately.

However, these tribes, along with others who might consider filing competing claims, may experience uncertainty due to the opaque process of evaluating and adjudicating such claims. The absence of detailed guidelines on how "preferences" between competing claims are managed might create issues for stakeholders who feel their claims are not given due consideration or transparency.

Furthermore, academic and historical institutions, such as the University of Tennessee and the Kansas State Historical Society, are directly involved. While these institutions demonstrate a commitment to ethical stewardship through compliance with NAGPRA, they must also navigate the complexities involved in transferring sacred objects and remains, handling potential backlash if stakeholders feel the repatriation process falls short.

Overall, this document sets an important precedent for the treatment of Native American cultural artifacts and remains, spotlighting the critical need for holistic and fair processes in their handling and return.