FR 2025-07421

The document from the Federal Register outlines a notice from the California State University, Los Angeles, about its intention to repatriate a cultural object under the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA). This object, a willow conical basket with a leather tip, is tentatively affiliated with Indigenous tribes, possibly the Havasupai or Paiute. This notice indicates that repatriation might begin after May 30, 2025, and also notes that other tribes or individuals who can prove a connection to the basket may submit requests for its return.

Summary of the Notice

This document is a formal notification under NAGPRA, which permits the transfer of culturally significant items back to their rightful Indigenous communities. The basket in question has been studied by Dr. Jan Timbrook, a basketry specialist, who proposed a possible origin with the Havasupai or Paiute Tribes based on its construction and materials. The National Park Service provides administrative oversight, though the determinations made are the responsibility of the university.

Significant Issues and Concerns

The notice raises several noteworthy issues:

• Lack of Documentation: Despite an exhaustive search, there is no clear origin or collection history for the basket. This absence suggests potential gaps in record-keeping at the university. It is unclear what specific methods were used to locate such documentation or why these efforts were unsuccessful.

• Criteria for Consultation: The criteria used by Dr. Timbrook to determine cultural affiliation remain somewhat ambiguous. While she looked at the basket’s style, type, and materials, the document does not detail the specific methodology or reasoning leading to her conclusions.

• Repatriation Procedures: The notice describes the possibility of competing claims but does not specify how these claims will be evaluated or resolved. Without clear guidance, this process could be lengthy and contentious.

Impact on the Public and Stakeholders

Broad Public Impact

This notice is a reflection of ongoing efforts to correct historical injustices related to the collection and holding of Indigenous cultural items. It serves as a reminder of the importance of cultural heritage and the need for institutions to handle such matters with respect and diligence.

Impact on Specific Stakeholders

• Indigenous Tribes: The primary stakeholders in this scenario are the tribes potentially connected to the cultural item. The return of the basket could be a significant step in preserving and honoring their cultural heritage. However, the lack of concrete procedures for evaluating claims could lead to delays or disputes, which might be frustrating for those involved.

• California State University, Los Angeles: The university is placed in the challenging position of determining the most appropriate claim should multiple tribes or descendants come forward. This could require careful negotiation and possibly further consultation with cultural experts.

Overall, while the notice is a positive step toward repatriation, the lack of specific procedural details could complicate the repatriation process for the stakeholders involved. Clarity in documentation, methodology, and dispute resolution would benefit both the university and the tribes it seeks to engage with.