ABSTRACT
This chapter addresses the importance that Native Hawaiians have placed on iwi kūpuna (ancestral bones) and moepū (funerary possessions) taken from their original places of interment and the cultural framework that empowers the duty and responsibility to secure their return for reburial. It begins with the identification of express legal authorities relied upon to conduct repatriation domestically. A discussion follows of cultural responsibilities asserted in support of repatriation claims in foreign jurisdictions, where express legal authority does not otherwise exist. A belief in a universal human right of dignity which includes the right to repatriate and to rebury is provided, followed by an overview of three international repatriation experiences conducted by Hui Mālama I Nā Kūpuna O Hawai‘i Nei and the Office of Hawaiian Affairs that involved museums in Switzerland, England, and Germany. In support of other Indigenous repatriation efforts, an overview of strategic approaches is provided that includes the commitment to traditional cultural values, the importance of networking, and the need to train the next generation of repatriation practitioners. This chapter concludes that repatriation efforts are a true expression of Hawaiian identity and that when facing new challenges to return iwi kūpuna and moepū, there is a need to be reminded of the paths already taken and the strategies and lessons learned. It further concludes that Native Hawaiians continue to heal the kaumaha (spiritual, emotional, psychological harm) that comes from knowing the ancestors were disturbed and have embraced the ability to empower their dignity through this responsible behaviour.
