Ancestral remains begin long journey home after 143 years at museum

After 143 years, ancestral remains from Rapa Nui, or Easter Island, are finally beginning their journey home from the Australian Museum in Sydney. The remains, along with a hair sample, were taken from sacred burial sites during a European naval expedition in 1882. The Australian Museum purchased them the following year.

The Rapa Nui Council of Elders has credited the Australian Museum and the government for "doing the right thing." The repatriation will be overseen by the Chilean government, as Rapa Nui is a special territory of Chile.

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finally going home

Custodian documents were signed at a formal farewell ceremony on Wednesday, which included a Fijian farewell song, ukulele music, and ceremonial exchanges. A Rapa Nui delegation is accompanying the remains on their journey.

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doing the right thing

Kim McKay, director and chief executive of the Australian Museum, called it a "special moment" for both Australian history and the Rapa Nui community. She offered an "unreserved apology," acknowledging the institution's role in acquiring human remains taken without consent from undisturbed resting places.

McKay noted the influence of colonialism, where Indigenous ancestors were viewed as objects of study. Laura McBride, director of First Nations at the Australian Museum, shared her understanding of the "tensions created from the legacy of past collecting practices," emphasizing the therapeutic value of new relationships that address past mistakes and foster healing.

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doing the right thing

The repatriation process has been lengthy, with the museum's Pasifika team engaging with Rapa Nui descendants for two years. No legally binding law compels Australian institutions to repatriate such items.

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It's significant for us, but really more significant for the community