The Smithsonian Institution's National Museum of the American Indian has completed the return of 22 sacred Katsina (Friend) masks to the Hopi Tribe in Arizona. The masks, which are considered living entities by the Hopi, were originally acquired by private collectors in the late 1800s and later donated to the museum. The repatriation follows a three-year consultation process under the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA).
Hopi tribal leaders emphasized that the return of these 'Friends' is essential for the spiritual health and continuity of their ceremonial cycles. The masks were transported back to the Hopi mesas under strict traditional protocols and will be placed in a secure, non-public community vault where they can be properly cared for by Katsina priests, marking a significant victory for Indigenous cultural sovereignty.