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more updatesStrengthening Partnerships: NAGPRA Compliance and a Better Way Forward at the Bureau of Indian Affairs
Collaborating for NAGPRA Compliance and Tribal Sovereignty
The Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) and Archaeology Southwest (ASW) are honored to collaborate in fostering respectful relationships with and assisting Tribal Nations in implementation of the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA) regarding BIA-controlled NAGPRA collections. Our cooperative assistance program advances shared commitments to Tribal sovereignty, meaningful consultations, respectful returns, and facilitating reburials of Ancestral remains and cultural items.
Our Approach: Supporting Tribal Partners
Respect for Tribal sovereignty, traditions, and knowledge guides our work. The BIA and ASW place Tribal voices at the center of every consultation, return, and reburial. Each Ancestor or cultural item we work with holds profound significance, and we approach every step with care and humility.
About Our Mission
The partnership between the BIA and ASW is grounded in honoring Tribal sovereignty, protecting cultural heritage, and addressing historical injustices through NAGPRA. This work is more than compliance; it is about justice, healing, and reconnecting Ancestors with their communities.
Together, we aim to ensure NAGPRA continues to support reconciliation and respect for generations to come. Thank you for your interest in this important effort.
Contact Us
If you are interested in partnering with us or learning more, please contact us at:
Tamara Billie and Rechanda Lee with the Bureau of Indian Affairs, at NAGPRA@bia.gov
Amy Gillaspie with Archaeology Southwest at NAGPRA@archaeologysouthwest.org