| Native cultural heritage items and Ancestors have long been the target of theft and looting by collectors seeking to line their shelves or their pockets. These sensitive items are often referred to by collectors and dealers as “antiquities,” “artifacts,” or “art.” However, Native cultural heritage items are held communally by Native Nations and cannot be removed without consent at the time the item was originally taken. Those who claim rightful possession must be able to prove it under federal, state or Native Nation laws. Domestic and international legal frameworks affirm that Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples have civil and human rights to manifest and practice their cultures without interference. The right to protect sacred cultural items is no different than the right to prevent someone from walking into a church or cemetery and looting it for personal gain. |  |
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