Federal Register #2026-07940

Notice of Intended Repatriation of Sacred Native Hawaiian and Native American Objects

This notice announces the intended repatriation of sacred Native Hawaiian and Native American ceremonial objects by Miami University and the Denver Museum of Nature & Science, in coordination with the National Park Service and Department of the Interior. - Government Buyers: - National Park Service (Department of the Interior) - Miami University - Denver Museum of Nature & Science - Cultural Items for Repatriation: - Kukui hele po (stone lamp) - Quantity: 1 - Description: Sacred object, stone lamp, accessioned 1968, currently missing, affiliated with Hui Iwi Kuamo'olo - Umeke la'au (wood bowl) - Quantity: 1 - Part Number: A1012.1 - Description: Wood bowl acquired from Honolulu, Hawaii, donated to Denver Museum of Nature & Science in 1978, affiliated with Hui Iwi Kuamo'olo - Notable Requirements: - Items are considered sacred ceremonial objects needed by traditional Native American religious leaders for present-day religious practices - Repatriation is conducted under the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA) - The process includes eligibility for written requests and determination of appropriate requestors - No commercial products or services are being procured; this is a legal and administrative action regarding cultural patrimony - Key Locations: - Miami University, Oxford, OH - Denver Museum of Nature & Science, Denver, CO - U.S. International Trade Commission, Washington, DC (mentioned in context, not directly related to repatriation)

Description

In accordance with the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA), Miami University intends to repatriate certain cultural items that are defined as sacred objects and have a cultural affiliation with Indian Tribes or Native Hawaiian organizations. The notice details the repatriation process and the cultural items involved, which are specific ceremonial objects needed by traditional Native American religious leaders. Repatriation may occur on or after May 26, 2026, and written requests for repatriation must be sent to the authorized representative at Miami University.

View original listing