The Kikuchi Center at Kaua'i Community College plans to return certain cultural items that meet the criteria for unassociated funerary objects under the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA). These items, including a 19th-century non-human bone toothbrush, a kapa beater, and three coral abraders, are believed to be linked to Native Hawaiian burial practices. The repatriation process may start on or after January 13, 2025, and will involve consulting with Indian Tribes or Native Hawaiian organizations that have shown a cultural connection to these items. If there are multiple requests for the same items, the Kikuchi Center will determine the most appropriate requestor.
Simple Explanation
The Kikuchi Center at Kaua'i Community College is planning to give back some special items to Native Hawaiian groups because they belonged to their ancestors, like a toothbrush made from bone and tools used long ago. They will work with these groups to make sure the right people get them back.