Representation

"This new policy is a cultural shift in our concepts of possession, ownership, and stewardship of collections. Its adoption is an expression of our values and commitment to meet our ethical obligations as a national and international cultural institution.”

- Secretary Lonnie G. Bunch III

Since its founding in 1846, the Smithsonian has developed scientific collections of human remains. Most of the 30,000 individuals in our museum were acquired during the 19th and early 20th centuries. Their remains have facilitated scientific research by aiding in our understanding of human variation and the advancement of forensic science and modern medical practices.

The human remains held by the Smithsonian come from many sources, including archaeological excavation, transfers from government agencies, and donations from museums, universities, hospitals, and individuals.

Many of the remains in Smithsonian collections were acquired without informed consent and in ways that are not consistent with modern standards. We acknowledge that some of the practices of our past are no longer acceptable today. We have a duty to these people and their descendants to champion the changes that reflect our current values and priorities.

We believe that all human remains must be treated with dignity and respect. We are committed to the appropriate care, shared stewardship, research use, or ethical return of human remains. They represent people from around the world and very locally. These maps provide a general snapshot of the different countries and US states represented by non-Native American people cared for in the NMNH.

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For more information about the people represented, use this form [hyperlink to google form} to submit a request.

While research is prohibited without consent and permission, we recognize the value ancestral remains can play in health, history, and future generations. Use this form [hyperlink to google form] to submit a research request.