In a recent development, the California State Auditor has unveiled a comprehensive report shedding light on the compliance of the California State University (CSU) system with the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA). Notably, Cal Poly Humboldt, situated among a group of 12 campuses, emerged as one of the institutions that failed to repatriate any NAGPRA objects. Although lacking in NAGPRA human remains within its collections, Cal Poly Humboldt currently houses a staggering total of 21,900 NAGPRA cultural items.
The release of this audit report marks an important milestone in evaluating the CSU system’s adherence to NAGPRA regulations, which aim to safeguard the rights and cultural heritage of Native American communities. Among the assorted campuses falling under scrutiny, Cal Poly Humboldt has been singled out due to its failure to repatriate any NAGPRA objects, despite possessing a significant inventory of 21,900 NAGPRA cultural items.
While it is noteworthy that Cal Poly Humboldt does not possess any NAGPRA human remains, the extensive collection of NAGPRA cultural items raises concerns about the university’s compliance with the repatriation requirements outlined in the federal law. These cultural artifacts hold immense historical, spiritual, and cultural significance for Native American tribes and are subject to repatriation efforts aimed at returning them to their rightful owners.
The findings of the audit report bring to the forefront the urgent need for Cal Poly Humboldt to address its repatriation responsibilities and forge stronger partnerships with Native American tribes. By neglecting to repatriate any NAGPRA objects, the university risks perpetuating the historical injustices suffered by these tribes and hindering their ability to preserve and celebrate their cultural heritage.
It is incumbent upon Cal Poly Humboldt to take immediate action and rectify this deficiency in its adherence to NAGPRA guidelines. Through proactive engagement with Native American tribes and comprehensive review of its NAGPRA cultural items, the university can pave the way for effective repatriation efforts. Furthermore, establishing transparent protocols and fostering open dialogue with tribal communities will be crucial in ensuring that the rightful owners regain possession of these culturally significant artifacts.
In conclusion, the release of the California State Auditor’s report has shed light on the NAGPRA compliance status within the CSU system, specifically highlighting Cal Poly Humboldt’s failure to repatriate any NAGPRA objects despite housing a substantial collection of 21,900 NAGPRA cultural items. To uphold the principles enshrined in NAGPRA and promote respectful collaboration with Native American tribes, it is imperative for Cal Poly Humboldt to promptly address this issue and work towards fulfilling its repatriation obligations. By doing so, the university can contribute to rectifying historical injustices and nurturing a more inclusive and culturally aware academic environment.
