Repatriation Work
In addition to digital/virtual repatriation, knowledge repatriation and artistic repatriation through facilitating Indigenous learning from ancestral collections in museums, I have facilitated the return of ancestral remains internationally and advise on repatriation process and policy:
Return of model pole from Peterborough Museum and Archives to Haida Nation, 2021.
I have raised with the Canadian Museum Association the need to work with shipping companies and Canada Customs to ensure protocols are in place for easy transport of repatriated items and ancestral remains.
Advice on repatriation policy development to Canadian and UK museums, 2017--
Drafted University of Oxford Repatriation policy for artifacts, 2018, and for human remains, 2005
[Anonymous] Nation: facilitation of return of ancestral remain from UK to USA. Collections research, presentation to senior museum Board of Governors, communication with claimants, travel support for claimants, administration of international shipping and customs paperwork for safe return. Due to the sensitive nature of this case, claimant and museum have chosen not to disclose exact details of case.
Haida Repatriation Committee: facilitation of return of ancestral remain from UK to Haida Gwaii, Canada. Collections research, presentation to senior management of museum and Board of Governors, communication with claimants, travel support/logistics for claimants, administration of international shipping and customs paperwork for safe return. Accompanied ancestor home to Haida Gwaii to present paperwork at customs and continue to build positive relations with Haida Nation.