OPTION 3 – NAGPRA
The Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA) passed in 1990 is an
important piece of legislation for protecting human rights and redressing archeology’s colonial
history. In this option, you will discuss the significance of the law, and challenges implementing
it. Note that the video deals with difficult and painful histories.
Task
1.
Watch the assigned video “
Carrying Our Ancestors Home: What is NAGPRA?
”
2.
Write and submit a response to the following prompts.
Make sure to apply concepts
from class in your responses
a.
What is NAGPRA, and why is it necessary?
-
A US law called NAGPRA guards against theft and illegal trafficking of
Native American cultural artifacts and human remains. Federally
supported institutions are required to inventory and return these goods
to their proper owners. Because NAGPRA aims to correct historical
wrongs and foster better ties between Native American tribes and federal
organizations, it is essential.
b.
What have been some of the challenges in implementing NAGPRA?
-
Due to challenges determining cultural identity, a lack of resources for
repatriation, conflicts regarding repatriation, and the noncompliance of
some institutions, NAGPRA implementation has been problematic.
Despite these difficulties, the NAGPRA has been successful in returning
numerous cultural artifacts and human remains, creating a framework for
their protection in the process.
c.
Overall, what have you learned about the importance of NAGPRA and
archaeological ethics?
-
To conserve and preserve cultural assets, NAGPRA and archaeological
ethics are crucial. NAGPRA advocates for the preservation and return of
Native American artifacts because it recognizes their cultural significance.
The ethical conduct of archaeology encourages ethical and responsible
research methods that honor the cultural heritage of the subjects being
examined. They support one another in fostering a more fair and
courteous interaction between researchers and the communities they
investigate.
