NAGPRA

Definition

NAGPRA stands for the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act, a U.S. federal law enacted in 1990 that addresses the rights of Native American tribes to reclaim cultural items, including human remains and sacred objects, from museums and federal agencies. The law emphasizes the importance of repatriation of cultural artifacts, recognizing the historical injustices faced by Native American communities in relation to their ancestral remains and cultural heritage. NAGPRA plays a crucial role in shaping ethical standards in archaeological research by establishing guidelines for the treatment of Native American cultural resources.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. NAGPRA applies to all federal agencies and institutions that receive federal funding, requiring them to inventory and repatriate Native American cultural items in their possession.
2. The law allows Native American tribes to claim human remains and funerary objects based on cultural affiliation or lineal descent, fostering collaboration between tribes and museums.
3. NAGPRA has significantly influenced how archaeological research is conducted, encouraging ethical practices that prioritize the rights of indigenous communities.
4. The implementation of NAGPRA has led to increased awareness and sensitivity regarding the treatment of Native American ancestral remains within academic and museum settings.
5. Since its enactment, NAGPRA has resulted in the successful repatriation of thousands of cultural items and human remains to various Native American tribes across the United States.

Review Questions

• How does NAGPRA influence the process of repatriation for Native American artifacts?
  • NAGPRA establishes a legal framework that mandates federal agencies and museums to return Native American cultural items, including human remains and sacred objects, to their respective tribes. This influence extends beyond mere legal requirements; it encourages a respectful dialogue between Native American communities and institutions holding these artifacts. The law helps recognize the historical injustices faced by these communities, making repatriation not just a legal obligation but also a moral imperative.
• In what ways does NAGPRA contribute to establishing ethical standards in archaeological research?
  • NAGPRA contributes to ethical standards by requiring archaeologists to consider the rights and perspectives of Native American tribes when conducting research involving their cultural heritage. The act encourages archaeologists to engage with these communities collaboratively, fostering an environment where mutual respect is prioritized. This shift in focus promotes ethical practices that value the significance of indigenous knowledge and ensure that research benefits the communities involved rather than exploiting them.
• Evaluate the impact of NAGPRA on the relationship between museums and Native American tribes regarding cultural heritage.
  • NAGPRA has profoundly transformed the relationship between museums and Native American tribes by fostering a climate of cooperation and respect. Prior to NAGPRA, many museums held indigenous artifacts without proper acknowledgment or consent from native communities. With NAGPRA's framework for repatriation, museums are now required to actively engage with tribes to discuss artifact provenance and appropriate handling. This new dynamic has encouraged museums to become more transparent about their collections while allowing tribes a voice in the preservation and interpretation of their cultural heritage, ultimately leading to a more inclusive approach to history.

Related terms

Repatriation: The process of returning cultural artifacts or human remains to their rightful owners, particularly indigenous peoples or their descendants.

Cultural Heritage: The legacy of physical artifacts and intangible attributes inherited from past generations, including traditions, language, and practices.

Ethics in Archaeology: A set of moral principles guiding archaeologists in their research practices, ensuring respect for cultural heritage and the communities related to it.