News Summary
California State University, Fullerton (CSUF) is taking significant steps to repatriate approximately 8,300 Native American cultural artifacts and the remains of 211 Native Americans. This initiative is a response to federal laws mandating the return of these items to their respective tribes. Recent audits revealed compliance issues within the CSU system, prompting calls for increased tribal involvement in repatriation committees. CSUF aims to ensure the respectful treatment of cultural items and is setting up oversight measures to improve adherence to repatriation laws.
Fullerton, California – California State University, Fullerton (CSUF) is currently navigating the complexities of repatriating approximately 8,300 Native American cultural artifacts and the remains of 211 Native Americans. This undertaking is imperative as federal law prohibits institutions like CSUF from housing such artifacts and remains. The Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA), enacted in 1990, mandates the return of these cultural items and remains to the respective tribes.
Recent audits have revealed significant compliance issues within the California State University (CSU) system regarding state repatriation laws aimed at effective governance over repatriation. A state audit highlights that a total of 5,800 remains and 692,400 cultural items reside across several CSU campuses, with many institutions facing daunting inventories that surpass those of CSUF. Amid legislative pressures and heightened awareness, state lawmakers are advocating for increased tribal involvement in repatriation committees. CSUF stands out as one of only four campuses in the CSU system to have independent tribal members actively engaged in its repatriation committee.
The ultimate objective behind these repatriation efforts is to facilitate the return and reburial of ancestors along with their belongings on tribal lands, restoring their connection to heritage and tradition. CSU Fullerton is actively addressing the need for accurate verification of the contents of artifact boxes to ensure that returns are directed to the appropriate tribes. This verification is a critical aspect of the repatriation process as it ensures the respectful handling of culturally significant items.
Among the artifacts stored at CSUF are archaeological items such as grinding stones and small seashells, many of which were collected during construction activities in Orange County in the early 2000s. These items were cataloged for safekeeping but now face scrutiny under evolving societal perspectives that recognize their significance beyond mere collectibles. The cultural shift in institutional views about Native American artifacts is moving towards understanding these items as vital cultural treasures meant for repatriation rather than curiosities for display.
CSUF has initiated action plans to return 50 sets of human remains from the ORA 64 site collection to the respective tribes, demonstrating a commitment to a conscientious evaluation process that ensures proper repatriation. The need for improved compliance with legal obligations related to repatriation has been acknowledged by the CSU system’s interim president, who emphasized that the institution must do better. Consequently, a new oversight committee is being established to oversee adherence to these laws and the repatriation process.
Further emphasizing the importance of these efforts, the CSUF provost pointed out that repatriation encompasses not only legal obligations but also social justice aspects regarding the treatment of Native Americans. There is a concerted push within the university to plan for creation of dedicated spaces in library facilities for Native American consultation and prayer, which would include a respectful presentation of cultural artifacts.
Tribal representatives have expressed the profound emotional implications of these repatriation efforts, emphasizing the spiritual significance tied to bringing their ancestors home. The repatriation initiative serves both to correct historical injustices and to honor the wishes and traditions of Native American tribes, reaffirming their rights to cultural heritage and ancestral remains.
As CSUF confronts the challenges of repatriation, it is clear that there is a pathway forward that integrates justice, respect for cultural heritage, and collaboration with Native American communities. The unfolding efforts of the university signify a shift towards a more ethical and socially responsible approach to addressing the legacies of past policies on Native American artifacts and remains.
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Additional Resources
- LAist: How Cal State Fullerton is Repatriating Native American Artifacts and Human Remains
- Google Search: Native American Grapes Protection and Repatriation Act
- SF Chronicle: Native American Repatriation
- Wikipedia: Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act
- OC Register: Titan Panel Discussion on Native American Empowerment
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Native American Repatriation
Author: Anaheim Staff Writer
Anaheim Staff Writer The Anaheim Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREAnaheim.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Anaheim, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as major conventions at the Anaheim Convention Center, including NAMM and VidCon, exciting games at Angel Stadium and Honda Center, and developments at Disneyland Resort Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Anaheim Chamber of Commerce and Visit Anaheim, plus leading businesses in hospitality, entertainment, and innovation that power the local economy As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECostaMesa.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERESantaAna.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
