Debra Harry stands next to Newe Elder Mary McCloud March 10 as she leads the opening prayer for the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act symposium. | University of Nevada, Reno
Debra Harry stands next to Newe Elder Mary McCloud March 10 as she leads the opening prayer for the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act symposium. | University of Nevada, Reno
The University of Nevada, Reno recently held its first Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA) symposium, a day-long hybrid event where 100 people attended in person and 100 virtually.
“NAGPRA recognizes one native people,” Suzan Shown Harjo said in her opening remarks, according to a news release from the school. “It recognizes the kinship of families."
According to the university, expert panelists from area tribes and community leaders shared their knowledge on NAGPRA at the symposium.
“We are protectors of an Indigenous future; that’s how I see the work that’s being done,” said Mishuana Goeman, Ph.D., Tonawanda band of Seneca, during her speech.
Goeman said she is happy that the school hosted the convention.
“There has been a long demand for this and a long time with no response, until now,” she said according to the release. “I’m very glad to see this work being done on campuses like this.”
The symposium began with College of Liberal Arts Dean Debra Moddelmog giving a land greeting, along with a prayer by Newe Elder Mary McCloud, the release stated.
Debra Harry, Ph.D., organized the event with support from the Office of the Provost, as well as the College of Liberal Arts and the Nevada Indian Commission, according to the release.
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