It's your curse

Perspectives on Philippine human remains in US museums

Datos Bibliográficos

ID2289591
AutoresDeirdre De La Cruz (0000-0001-9430-8118, Department of History, Department of Asian Language and Cultures University of Michigan Ann Arbor MI USA, autor de correspondencia), Ricardo L Punzalan (0000-0003-1384-0845, School of Information University of Michigan Ann Arbor MI USA), Kristi Rhead (Doctoral Program in Anthropology and History University of Michigan Ann Arbor MI USA)
Año2025
Volumen48
Número1
Fecha de publicación2025-03-01
Peer ReviewedSí
Open AccessSí
TipoARTICLE
RevistaMuseum Anthropology (JOURNAL)
Identificadores de la revistaISSN: 0892-8339 • E-ISSN: 1548-1379
EditorialWiley (PUBLISHER • GB)
DOI10.1111/muan.12311
OpenAlexW4405398650
IdiomaEN
Referencias citadas25

This article examines the ethical, cultural, and legal challenges surrounding the collection and repatriation of Philippine human remains housed in US museums, with a particular focus on the University of Michigan's Museum of Anthropological Archaeology (UMMAA). Using a participatory focus group methodology, the research engages diverse stakeholders, including individuals of Filipino and Indigenous descent, community organizers, cultural and curatorial experts, and legal professionals, highlighting multifaceted perspectives on human remains from the Philippines. In examining materialist, cultural, spiritual, and legal angles, and ultimately underscoring the moral burden of holding such remains, the article advocates for reparative approaches toward improved curation, creation of culturally appropriate rituals, and meaningful engagement with both Philippine-based and diasporic communities. These findings also contribute to broader discussions on reparative justice and decolonial methodologies in museum contexts by offering a nuanced perspective on the repatriation debate and proposing actionable steps even when immediate repatriation is not feasible

Curse · Genealogy · Sociology · Anthropology · Asian Culture and Media Studies · Cultural Heritage Management and Preservation · Digital and Traditional Archives Management · History