Non-Native museums, academia, and private collectors are in possession of culturally significant objects that are linked to contemporary Native cultures. As a result, material objects that are vital to preserving the cultural identity of Indigenous communities are often out of reach to the originating communities. To help facilitate the return of culturally significant items, the “Going Home Fund”, led by a national council of Native repatriation specialists, museum professionals, and attorneys, will:
- Request funds for returns, gifts, or loans.
- Increase public awareness of the value of returning items to the originating communities.
- Build connections between tribal communities and non-Native collecting institutions and individuals.
- Strengthen the capacity of tribal museums to seek loans and gifts.
- Serve as a conduit for individual donors and organizations wishing to return items.
- Establish a network of appraisers, attorneys, and other professionals who can lend their support to facilitating returns.
The Fund is supported through a generous grant from the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation. If you would like to join the Mellon Foundation in its efforts to ensure the cultural continuity of indigenous peoples, please use this contribution form or contact [email protected]
To learn more about the Going Home Fund, read the Project Plan.
Major funding provided by:
