Federal Register #2026-12378

Notice of Intended Repatriation of Native American Cultural Items by Ball State University

This notice concerns the intended repatriation of Native American cultural items by Ball State University, as required under federal law. - Government Buyer: - Ball State University (in coordination with the National Park Service, Department of the Interior) - No OEMs or commercial vendors are involved, as this is not a procurement or purchase action - Cultural Items for Repatriation: - 1 Sioux tomahawk (catalog number 1938.500.150), reportedly used in the Battle of Little Bighorn - 1 pair of child's moccasins (Sioux/Dakotas, catalog number 2018.051.022AB), acquired via auction - 3 beaded pouches (Santee Sioux, catalog numbers 1975.017.027B, E, F), acquired via private donation - Unique Requirements: - Ball State University will conduct XRF testing for hazardous substances on the items and provide results to the requesting Tribal Nation - The repatriation is specifically connected to the Flandreau Santee Sioux Tribe of South Dakota - This is a compliance action under the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA), not a procurement opportunity

Description

In accordance with the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA), Ball State University intends to repatriate certain cultural items that are objects of cultural patrimony and have cultural affiliation with Indian Tribes or Native Hawaiian organizations. The items include a tomahawk, child's moccasins, and beaded pouches associated with the Sioux and Santee Sioux tribes. The repatriation may occur on or after July 22, 2026. Requests for repatriation must be sent to Ball State University with appropriate documentation of cultural affiliation.

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