ACHP: Consultation on Policy Statement on Burial Sites, Human Remains, and Funerary Objects

Description

Dear Tribal and Native Hawaiian Organization Leaders,

The ACHP is proposing to update its Policy Statement on Burial Sites, Human Remains, and Funerary Objects and would like to invite Tribal and Native Hawaiian leaders, or their designated representatives, to consult on the updated policy draft on Thursday, February 9, 2023, from 3:00PM – 5:00PM ET.

Last updated in 2007, the policy statement offers guidance on how to consider burial sites, human remains, and funerary objects during the Section 106 review process. Updates to this policy are being pursued to—among other things—be more inclusive regarding issues of concern to Indian Tribes, Native Hawaiian organizations (NHOs), Indigenous Peoples, and Subject Matter Experts on African American Burial Grounds, including (1) recognizing their expertise in identifying and considering their burial sites, human remains, and funerary objects, (2) acknowledging the impacts of climate change and associated response actions, (3) clarifying that burial sites are often sacred sites, and (4) recognizing the right of descendants to request repatriation consistent with the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, among other considerations.

Summary of Early Coordination 

In the summer and fall of 2022, the ACHP coordinated with Indian Tribes, NHOs, federal agency personnel, ACHP members, subject matter experts, and ACHP staff to gain feedback regarding proposed updates to this policy statement. Overall, the response to the proposed updates was supportive and collaborative, with many commenters noting the importance of updating the policy statement to reflect the increasing diversity of perspectives that participate in the field of historic preservation. A detailed summary of early coordination efforts, feedback received, and how that feedback has shaped this updated policy draft can be found here. An overview of that feedback and an updated draft of the policy statement are also attached to this invitation. 

Consultation 

The ACHP has determined that updating its Policy Statement on Burials, Human Remains, and Funerary Objects requires compliance with Executive Order 13175: Consultation and Coordination With Indian Tribal Governments. Accordingly, we have developed a consultation plan (attached) consistent with ACHP’s consultation procedures and invite you to a participate in the virtual consultation event outlined below.

Thursday, February 9, 2022, 3:00 - 5:00 ET

https://achp.zoomgov.com/j/1617710619?pwd=eEJaL2QxVmVkcDlWV2RzaEdMUzF1Zz09

Phone: 669-254-5252

Meeting ID: 161 771 0619

Passcode: 399294

Copies of all documents, including any information shared during the consultation event, will be available on ACHP’s website. If you are unable to access the website, have questions, or would like to submit written comments regarding the proposed updates please contact us at native@achp.gov. Comments should be submitted as soon as possible but no later than February 24^th, 2023.

The ACHP looks forward to consulting with you on this update. We sincerely appreciate your time and attention to this effort. Should you have any questions about the proposed updates or consultation plan, don't hesitate to contact Mr. Ira L. Matt, Director, Office of Native American Affairs at imatt@achp.gov.

Sincerely,
Jordan Tannenbaum
Vice Chairman