In a notice from the National Park Service, Mercyhurst University has conducted an inventory under the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA) and found a cultural connection between the remains of one individual and certain Native American Tribes. The remains, originally part of an Ohio museum collection, may be repatriated to the Miccosukee Tribe of Indians, Seminole Tribe of Florida, or The Seminole Nation of Oklahoma, starting May 30, 2025. Any tribe, individual, or descendant not initially identified may also request repatriation if they can prove their connection. The university will handle any competing requests before returning the remains.
Simple Explanation
Mercyhurst University found some old bones that they think belong to Native American tribes and they want to give them back to their rightful owners. Anyone who thinks the bones might be related to their family can ask to have them too.