In accordance with the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA), the Peabody Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology at Harvard University plans to return a cultural item, specifically a sacred akua hulu manu (feathered god image) associated with Hawaiian chief Kekuaokalani, to its rightful steward. This repatriation can occur on or after February 18, 2025, and has been determined based on input from a known lineal descendant. Additional requests for repatriation may be submitted by any descendant, tribe, or Native Hawaiian organization that can demonstrate a rightful connection to the item. The final decision will prioritize the most appropriate requestor and may involve joint repatriation.
Simple Explanation
The Peabody Museum at Harvard wants to give back a special Hawaiian feathered god statue to the right family or group, based on a rule called NAGPRA. They will decide who gets it by February 18, 2025, after talking to people who can show they are connected to it.