Royal Alberta Museum to return Indigenous artifacts, holds some for ‘preservation purposes’

The Alberta government announced Monday that it is working with the Royal Alberta Museum on returning the ownership of cultural artifacts that belong to Indigenous communities.

Seven objects belonging to the Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation (ACFN) have been returned, according to the province, as per the Historical Resources Act.

Officials say the work is meant to address “past wrongs and harm done to Indigenous Peoples,” and includes identifying and returning the objects.

Cultural minister Ron Orr said in a statement that returning objects that previously belonged to Indigenous communities is the “right step” in the province’s steps “towards reconciliation.”

“Alberta’s government and the Royal Alberta Museum are committed to working with Indigenous communities to honour the significance of Indigenous artifacts and the stories they tell,” Orr said.

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Of the seven objects, a Treaty 8 medal and its leather strap have been returned, while the remaining objects are on loan to the Royal Alberta Museum.

The government says this is for “preservation purposes” as it says the objects are “larger, fragile, and difficult to move.” Officials say ACFN has “approved” the items remaining, and can move the objects at any time.

Meaghan Patterson, the executive director of the Royal Alberta Museum, says returning the objects to the ACFN is a “powerful moment” for the museum.

“The return of these objects to the Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation is a powerful moment, and the Royal Alberta Museum is honoured to take this important step toward reconciliation. We look forward to exploring future opportunities to strengthen our relationship with Alberta’s Indigenous communities,” Patterson said.

Chief Allen Adam of the ACFN says this is a great move from the province, but adds that there are still lots of items that are in need of securing.

“This is a great example of what’s possible when we work together. There is still much to do to repatriate additional items, but we thank Minister Orr for recognizing the importance of returning these pieces of ACFN history. Marsi cho (thank you),” Adam said.

The province says the Royal Alberta Museum works with Indigenous communities and leaders to make sure objects and stories in its galleries are shared, cared for, and or returned to their rightful owners.

Officials add that the museum offers free admission to Indigenous Peoples.