The University of California San Diego has completed an inventory of ancestral human remains and is preparing for repatriation, in accordance with the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA). The remains of at least 97 individuals have been identified, with a determined cultural affiliation to the Seminole Tribe of Florida based on geographical location.
Origins of the Remains
These remains were originally excavated between 1989 and 1992 from archaeological sites in Amelia Island, Leon County, Alachua County, Duval County, and Columbia County, Florida. Dr. Clark Larsen of the University of North Carolina conducted the initial excavations, in collaboration with the University of Florida—Florida Museum of Natural History. Subsequently, isolates from these individuals were transferred to Dr. Margaret Schoeninger at UC San Diego for isotopic analysis.
According to the notice, no hazardous substances were used in the treatment of the remains, and no associated funerary objects were present.
Repatriation Process
The University of California San Diego, in coordination with the University of Florida-Florida Museum of Natural History, will facilitate the repatriation process as requested by relevant Tribes. Written requests for repatriation may be submitted to Eva Trujillo, Repatriation Coordinator, at 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA 92093, or via email at [email protected].
Repatriation could begin on or after April 17, 2026. The University of California San Diego will determine the most appropriate requestor if multiple parties submit requests.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is NAGPRA?
The Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA) is a federal law that governs the treatment of Native American human remains and cultural items.
Who can request repatriation?
Requests for repatriation may be submitted by any one or more of the Indian Tribes or Native Hawaiian organizations identified in the notice, or by any lineal descendant, Indian Tribe, or Native Hawaiian organization demonstrating cultural affiliation.
Were any artifacts found with the remains?
No associated funerary objects were present with the human remains.
As institutions continue to address the legacy of collecting and studying ancestral remains, how will these repatriation efforts shape future relationships between universities and Native American communities?
