Short Wave Code Switch: Archaeological skeletons in the closet
Oct 22, 2021
Kumari Devarajan, a producer on the Code Switch team, discusses the ongoing battle of the Seminole Tribe of Florida to reclaim their ancestors' remains from the Smithsonian. The conversation touches on the ethical dilemmas surrounding archaeology and repatriation, the intertwining of biological ancestry with cultural identity, and the personal impacts of these historical injustices. Devarajan highlights the tribe's emotional journey, emphasizing how returning these remains signifies a painful yet necessary step towards healing and reclaiming their heritage.
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Tina Osceola's Activism Origins
- Tina Osceola's involvement in Seminole issues began with the Junior Miss Seminole pageant.
- This experience exposed her to broader Indigenous struggles and ignited her activism.
Acquisition of Remains
- The Smithsonian's Natural History Museum houses thousands of Native American remains.
- These remains were acquired through various means, including donations and the museum's own excavations.
Ownership Disputes and Repatriation
- Determining ownership of remains is complex, leading to disputes.
- The 1989 law mandates returning remains, but the Smithsonian requires cultural affiliation for repatriation.
