California tribes demand action on repatriation of ancestral remains from CSU Fresno

In a powerful display of advocacy, tribal leaders gathered at the California State Assembly on August 29, 2023, to address the urgent need for compliance with Native American repatriation laws. Central to the discussions was the stark reality that California State University (CSU) Fresno has yet to repatriate any of its nearly 40,000 items of human remains and cultural artifacts, a situation described as a denial of justice and healing for Indigenous communities.

Mitch Geiss, a representative from a local tribe, emphasized the importance of treating ancestral remains and cultural items with dignity and respect. He highlighted that the failure of CSU Fresno to consult with tribes during its review of collections undermines tribal sovereignty and the opportunity for tribes to share their knowledge and traditions. "Absent compliance and enforcement, these laws are degraded to nothing more than words on paper full of empty promises," Geiss stated, calling for systemic changes to ensure accountability and meaningful consultation with tribes.

The meeting also featured poignant testimonies from tribal leaders, including Chairman Jack Potter of the Reading Rancheria, who expressed the spiritual damage caused by the continued storage of ancestral remains in academic institutions. "It’s damaging to our spirit to have to go into these places and see our ancestors sitting on those shelves," Potter lamented, urging for a swift return of remains to their rightful homes.

Chairman Leo Siskyu of the Tachi Yokut tribe echoed these sentiments, stressing the need for collaboration and respect in the repatriation process. He pointed out that the lack of action on repatriation reflects a broader disregard for Indigenous lives and histories. "All we want is for our ancestors to come home and be respected," Siskyu said, reinforcing the call for a more inclusive dialogue that prioritizes Indigenous voices.

The meeting concluded with a commitment from legislative leaders to prioritize these issues, ensuring that the voices of California's first people are heard and respected in future discussions. As the call for action grows louder, the urgency to dismantle barriers to repatriation remains a critical focus for both tribal leaders and state officials.