The American Museum of Natural History, one of the country’s most renowned museums, has announced the closure of two Native American exhibits. The decision comes following new regulations from the federal government, which now require museums to obtain consent from tribes before displaying cultural artifacts to the public. The museum president, Sean Decatur, stated that the closed exhibits represented a time when museums did not respect the values and perspectives of Indigenous peoples.
The two canceled exhibits focused on Native American cultural items from the Eastern Woodlands and Great Plains. The move aligns with President Biden’s administration’s efforts to expedite the repatriation of Native American remains and cultural objects. New federal regulations, implemented this month, have streamlined the processes outlined in the 1990 Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act. These regulations now require institutions to initiate repatriation within five years.
A significant change in the regulations is the increased power given to tribal leaders and representatives in making claims on museum property and requesting repatriation. The burden of proof for tribes to make claims has been greatly reduced, with institutional curators now required to defer to Native American traditional knowledge in the absence of historical documentation.
The closure of the exhibits may come as a surprise to some, but for others, it is a long-awaited step towards rectifying past injustices. The repatriation of cultural artifacts and remains holds immense significance for Indigenous communities, as it allows them to reclaim their heritage and preserve their cultural identity.
The American Museum of Natural History’s decision reflects the ongoing efforts to address historical wrongs and promote cultural sensitivity. By prioritizing tribal consent and acknowledging the shared humanity of Indigenous peoples, museums contribute to a more inclusive and respectful representation of Native American history and culture.
Overall, the closure of the Native American exhibits at the American Museum of Natural History highlights the evolving understanding and commitment to honoring tribal consent and preserving cultural heritage. This move signifies an important step in the ongoing efforts to rectify past injustices and promote cultural sensitivity in the museum sector.
