Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act

Definition

The Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA) is a federal law enacted in 1990 that aims to protect the rights of Native American tribes to their ancestral remains and cultural items. It establishes a process for museums and federal agencies to return these items to the respective tribes, emphasizing the importance of cultural preservation and respect for Native American heritage.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. NAGPRA applies to federal agencies and institutions that receive federal funding, requiring them to inventory human remains and cultural items in their collections.
2. The law recognizes the sovereignty of Native American tribes, allowing them to assert claims over their ancestors' remains and cultural artifacts.
3. NAGPRA mandates that institutions must consult with tribes to determine the appropriate disposition of remains and cultural items.
4. The act has led to the repatriation of thousands of Native American remains and artifacts to tribes across the United States since its enactment.
5. NAGPRA highlights the importance of ethical considerations in archaeology and museum practices regarding indigenous cultures.

Review Questions

• How does NAGPRA impact the relationship between museums and Native American tribes regarding cultural items?
  • NAGPRA significantly impacts the relationship between museums and Native American tribes by requiring museums to recognize tribal sovereignty over ancestral remains and cultural items. It obligates institutions to inventory their collections, consult with tribes, and facilitate repatriation when applicable. This legal framework fosters collaboration and dialogue between museums and tribes, aiming for a more respectful approach to cultural heritage.
• Discuss the ethical implications of NAGPRA on the field of archaeology and museum curation.
  • NAGPRA introduces important ethical implications in archaeology and museum curation by challenging traditional practices that often disregarded indigenous rights. The act emphasizes the need for archaeologists and curators to engage respectfully with Native American communities and recognize their authority over cultural heritage. By promoting transparency and accountability in the management of cultural resources, NAGPRA aims to rectify historical injustices faced by Native Americans.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of NAGPRA in achieving its goals since its implementation in 1990.
  • Since its implementation in 1990, NAGPRA has shown varying levels of effectiveness in achieving its goals. While it has successfully facilitated the repatriation of thousands of remains and artifacts to Native American tribes, challenges persist, such as inconsistent compliance among institutions and complex legal disputes. Additionally, while NAGPRA raises awareness about indigenous rights, further efforts are needed to ensure comprehensive understanding and respect for Native American cultural heritage within broader society.

Related terms

Cultural Heritage:

The legacy of physical artifacts and intangible attributes of a group or society inherited from past generations, including traditions, customs, and values.

Repatriation: The process of returning cultural artifacts, human remains, or ancestral materials to their country or community of origin, often linked with ethical considerations and historical injustices.

Ethnobotany: The study of the relationship between people and plants, focusing on how indigenous cultures use plants for various purposes, including medicine, food, and rituals.