American Museum of Natural History Repatriates 100+ Native American Human Remains and 90 Objects
The American Museum of Natural History (AMNH) has repatriated the remains of 124 individuals and 90 objects to Indigenous groups in 2024, in compliance with updated federal regulations under the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA). The new rules require museums to obtain consent from Native American tribes before displaying or researching artefacts. The AMNH has closed certain galleries and hired staff to improve storage conditions for human remains. The museum plans to roll out public initiatives addressing its NAGPRA compliance work, including educational programs and exhibits. The AMNH is among several institutions working to repatriate human remains and burial objects, following criticisms for delays in the process. The recent changes aim to streamline repatriation efforts and remove obstacles faced by museums.
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Elara Voss, graduated from the Royal College of Art in London with a Master’s in Fine Art. She specializes in contemporary sculpture and installation art, exploring themes of nature and human interaction. Elara’s works have been featured in several group exhibitions across Europe, and she is currently working on her first solo show.