Cal State bans classroom use of Native artifacts without tribal consent

The California State University system has adopted a new interim policy that prohibits faculty from using Native American human remains or cultural items in teaching or research without first obtaining permission from the relevant tribe, according to The College Fix. The July 1 policy aligns with federal and state repatriation laws and requires all 23 CSU campuses to identify and return such items to tribes, while also mandating tribal consultation.

Anthropologist Elizabeth Weiss criticized the policy in an interview with The College Fix, saying it restricts academic freedom and prohibits activities such as measuring remains or taking photographs. If an artifact’s tribe of origin is unknown, the policy prevents it from being used for research or teaching.

Amy Bentley-Smith, a CSU spokesperson, was quoted as saying that meaningful engagement with tribal nations “enriches academic research and teaching by grounding it in respect, accuracy, and collaboration.”