AMNH Closing Two Native American Exhibition Halls: A Historic Step Towards Repatriation
Introduction
In a groundbreaking move that signals a shift in the museum world’s approach to Indigenous representation, the American Museum of Natural History (AMNH) in New York City is closing two exhibition halls dedicated to Native American artifacts and cultural items. This bold decision reflects a growing recognition among museums and institutions across the United States that many Native American exhibits are outdated, culturally insensitive, and in need of transformation. The closures align with recently revised federal regulations that emphasize the importance of obtaining tribal consent and adhering to ethical standards in the display and research of Indigenous cultural heritage.
A Legacy of Outdated Exhibits
The AMNH’s decision to close the Eastern Woodlands and Great Plains Halls, which house a significant collection of Native American objects, stems from a realization that these exhibits no longer align with contemporary understanding and respect for Indigenous cultures. These halls, like many others in museums across the country, were created during an era when museums often disregarded the values, perspectives, and humanity of Indigenous peoples. The exhibits often presented a romanticized and stereotypical view of Native American cultures, failing to acknowledge the complexities and diversity of these communities.
These outdated exhibits perpetuate harmful narratives that contribute to the erasure and misrepresentation of Native American history and culture. They often portray Native Americans as relics of the past, frozen in time, rather than as vibrant and dynamic peoples with rich cultural traditions that continue to evolve today. Such exhibits reinforce harmful stereotypes and hinder efforts to promote understanding and reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities.
Complying with Federal Regulations
The closures of the Native American exhibition halls at the AMNH are also in response to revised federal regulations issued by the U.S. Department of the Interior, specifically related to the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA) of 1990. These regulations aim to strengthen the protection of Indigenous cultural heritage and ensure that museums and institutions obtain consent from tribes before exhibiting or conducting research on Native American artifacts, human remains, and funerary, sacred, and cultural objects.
NAGPRA was enacted in recognition of the importance of Indigenous cultural heritage to Native American tribes and communities. The revised regulations emphasize the need for museums and institutions to engage in meaningful consultation with tribes and to obtain their consent before displaying or studying Native American cultural items. This requirement is intended to ensure that Indigenous voices are heard and that the rights and interests of tribes are respected.
A Call for Repatriation
The Association on American Indian Affairs (AAIA), a national organization advocating for the rights of Native Americans, has long called for museums and institutions to comply with NAGPRA and facilitate the repatriation of Indigenous cultural items to their rightful owners. Shannon O’Loughlin, head of the AAIA, emphasizes that covering displays or removing items is only a partial solution; the ultimate goal is repatriation, returning objects back to the tribes from which they were taken.
“For too long, Native American cultural heritage has been treated as a commodity, bought, sold, and displayed without regard for the wishes of the tribes to whom it belongs,” says O’Loughlin. “Repatriation is a crucial step in rectifying this historical injustice and restoring the dignity and sovereignty of Native American nations.”
Challenges and Opportunities
The closures of the Native American exhibition halls at the AMNH and similar actions taken by other museums present both challenges and opportunities. Some may argue that these closures limit access to cultural heritage and educational resources. However, these actions also provide an opportunity for museums to re-evaluate their relationships with Indigenous communities, engage in meaningful dialogue, and develop new approaches to exhibiting and interpreting Native American cultures.
Museums can use this opportunity to create exhibits that are developed in partnership with Indigenous communities, ensuring that the perspectives and voices of Native Americans are central to the narrative. These exhibits can provide visitors with a more accurate and respectful understanding of Native American history and culture, challenging stereotypes and promoting reconciliation.
Moving Forward: A Commitment to Ethical and Respectful Representation
The AMNH’s decision to close the Eastern Woodlands and Great Plains Halls is a significant step towards respecting and upholding the rights of Indigenous peoples. It reflects a commitment to ethical and respectful representation of Native American cultures, acknowledging the importance of tribal consent, shared humanity, and the repatriation of cultural heritage. This move sets an example for other museums and institutions to critically evaluate their own exhibits, engage in ongoing dialogue with Indigenous communities, and strive to create spaces that accurately and respectfully represent Native American cultures.
As museums and institutions continue to grapple with the legacy of colonialism and the need for decolonization, the closure of the Native American exhibition halls at the AMNH serves as a reminder that true progress requires a fundamental shift in attitudes and practices. It is a call to action for museums to embrace a new era of collaboration, respect, and shared stewardship of Indigenous cultural heritage.