This term refers to a group of individuals who share a concern or passion for the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA) and deepen their knowledge and expertise in this area by interacting on an ongoing basis. This group may include tribal representatives, museum professionals, archaeologists, federal agency staff, and other stakeholders who collaborate to implement and interpret the law. An example might be a forum or working group dedicated to addressing specific NAGPRA-related challenges, such as the repatriation of culturally unidentifiable human remains.
Active participation fosters consistent application of the law, promotes ethical treatment of Native American cultural items and human remains, and strengthens relationships between institutions and tribal nations. Collaboration helps to navigate the complexities of repatriation, ensuring that Native American cultural heritage is respectfully managed and returned to its rightful descendants. The development of shared understandings through ongoing dialogue mitigates misunderstandings and promotes effective communication.
