6 Native American Artifacts That Explain New Guidelines for Displays in Museums

In response to recent federal regulations mandating museums to secure tribal consent before exhibiting select Native cultural artifacts, institutions like Chicago's Field Museum have undergone profound transformations. These rules' implementation has led to the covering of displays and the removal of objects, but it has also caused exhibit halls to close entirely. The significant modifications have prompted a thorough review of the museum's compliance protocols, calling for a more in-depth investigation of the methods used in the acquisition, exhibition, and interpretation of cultural artifacts inside the confines of the organization.

The amendments to the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA) aim to bolster the efficacy of this crucial legislation, which has come under scrutiny due to perceived delays in its repatriation processes since its establishment. While NAGPRA mandates the repatriation of specific items to tribes, it also delineates provisions allowing particular objects to remain on public display. These exemptions may apply to artifacts deemed essential for educational or cultural purposes or when explicit consent is obtained from tribal authorities, underscoring the nuanced balance between preserving cultural heritage and facilitating public access to these invaluable historical resources.

Hopewell Ear Ornaments (Off Display, Accession Year: 1893):

These shell ornaments originating from Ohio's Hopewell mounds are likely categorized as funerary items, thus necessitating their removal from public display.

Inuit Bag (On Display, Accession Year: 1897):

Acquired post-Alaska purchase, this fur bag falls outside the purview of the law due to its non-sacred, utilitarian nature, allowing it to remain on exhibit.

Pueblo Pottery (Off Display, Accession Year: 1894):

While the origins of this Arizona ceramic bowl remain unclear, it potentially qualifies as cultural patrimony, prompting consultations with regional tribes and its subsequent removal from display.

Nuxalk Mask (On Display, Accession Year: 1897):

Originating from Canada's Nuxalk Nation, this mask is exempt from repatriation laws and is limited to tribes recognized by the U.S. government.

Hopewell Pipe (Off Display, Accession Year: 1893):

Believed to be of funerary significance, this stone pipe's absence from public view aligns with its potential sacredness and the regulatory requirement for consultation with relevant tribes.

Pawnee Drum (On Display, Accession Year: 1902):

Featured in the "Native Truths" exhibit, this drum's display reflects tribal preferences, although repatriation remains a viable option.

As museums navigate the complexities of these regulations, they are tasked with striking a delicate balance between preservation and cultural sensitivity, which emerges as paramount in their operations. Working in partnership with tribal communities is still essential because it guarantees the respectful handling of ancestor artifacts and enhances museum narratives by bringing in a variety of viewpoints and life experiences. This continuous conversation between museums and indigenous communities shows a solid dedication to respecting indigenous voices and history, which promotes a more welcoming and courteous museum experience for all visitors, regardless of identity or background. Thus, the constantly changing field of Native displays is a monument to the continued work of righting historical wrongs and designing environments that truly capture the richness and diversity of indigenous histories and cultures.