Federal Register #2026-17180

Notice of Intended Repatriation of Sacred Cultural Items at Boston Children's Museum

This notice concerns the intended repatriation of sacred cultural items by the Boston Children's Museum, overseen by the Department of the Interior and National Park Service. - Government Buyer: - Department of the Interior - National Park Service - Boston Children's Museum - Items for Repatriation: - Eight sacred cultural items affiliated with Hui Iwi Kuamo1o, a Native Hawaiian organization - Two wooden bowls (Umeke Laau) - Water container (Ipu Wai) - Bowling stone (Ulu Maika) - Tapa beater (I1e Kuku) - Net holder for bowl (Koko) - Poi pounder (Pohaku Kuli Ai) - Octopus lure (Luhe1e) - Unique Requirements: - Items are recognized as sacred and culturally affiliated - No hazardous substances used in item treatment - Eligible Indian Tribes, Native Hawaiian organizations, or lineal descendants may submit written requests for repatriation - If multiple requests are received, the museum will determine the most appropriate recipient - No procurement of products or services; this is a notice of repatriation under NAGPRA

Description

Boston Children's Museum intends to repatriate certain cultural items that are defined as sacred objects and have cultural affiliation with Indian Tribes or Native Hawaiian organizations. The repatriation is in accordance with the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA). The items include eight sacred objects such as wooden bowls, a water container, a bowling stone, a tapa beater, a net holder for bowl, a poi pounder, and an octopus lure. These items have cultural associations with Hui Iwi Kuamo1o and repatriation may occur on or after September 23, 2026.

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