The Routledge Companion to Indigenous Repatriation: Return, Reconcile, Renew

This volume provides an international overview of the removal and return of Ancestral Remains, highlighting the power imbalance and colonial context of their removal. It explores the efforts of First Nations campaigners to return remains home and the profound change in the relationship between Indigenous peoples and collecting institutions. The authors contribute new work and reflect on nearly 40 years of repatriation, its meaning, value, impact, and effect.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 1018 pages
Publication date: 13 June 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive volume brings together Indigenous and non-Indigenous repatriation practitioners and researchers to provide a global perspective on the removal and return of Ancestral Remains. The Ancestral Remains of Indigenous peoples are currently housed in museums and other collecting institutions worldwide, having been taken from various locations where the deceased was found. These removals occurred within the context of a profound power imbalance within a colonial project that had lasting effects on Indigenous communities across the globe. Despite the efforts of First Nations campaigners, many Ancestral Remains have been returned home. However, a significant number remain retained in various countries. The repatriation issue has sparked a transformative shift in the relationship between Indigenous peoples and collecting institutions in many countries. It has paved the way for a more just, dignified, and truthful basis for interaction, resetting the historical relationship that was constrained by colonization.

The history of repatriation is a testament to the unwavering resilience and success of Indigenous peoples. The authors of this book contribute significant new work and explore fresh dimensions of this global movement. They reflect on nearly 40 years of repatriation, its meaning, value, impact, and effects.

This book is a valuable resource for repatriation practice and research, offering readers with interests in Indigenous histories, self-determination, and the relationship between collecting institutions and Indigenous peoples a wealth of new knowledge. It serves as a testament to the ongoing efforts to reclaim and honor the Ancestral Remains of Indigenous peoples and to foster a more respectful and equitable relationship between these communities and the institutions that hold their cultural heritage.

Weight: 1750g
Dimension: 184 x 252 x 62 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032336787