Arlington Heights Lawmaker Helps Pass Bill Honoring Native Remains

ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, IL — An Arlington Heights lawmaker is attempting to pave the way for the remains of Native Americans who pass on to be buried in a manner that honors their heritage.

Illinois Rep. Mark Walker (D-Arlington Heights) recently helped to pass a bill through the House that will establish a state process of burying and repatriating Native remains.

Walker’s bill, House Bill 3413, would create a process of reburying and repatriating Native American remains and any funerary objects recovered from those graves, according to a news release.

The legislation would also establish a Native American Review Group in Illinois containing the 30 tribes with historic roots in the state which essentially, the descendants of those buried in Illinois to coordinate these efforts.

The bill also creates a designated cemetery in the state not accessible to the public where remains can be buried respectfully and with honors, the news release said. These efforts build upon Federal requirements for the repatriation of Native American remains and cultural items.

“While I’m very proud to pass this bill, it is long overdue,” Walker said. “Native American tribes are part of Illinois’ foundational history. Our museums and other historical sites currently contain thousands of Native remains and associated artifacts. These remains belong to the tribes, not to the state, and it’s high time we give them back.

He added: “I can’t imagine just how horrible I would feel if someone dug up the grave of my grandmother and stole a necklace she was buried with to be sold as a curiosity, but that’s exactly what we’re talking about here. Illinois’ past and present are better because of the history and impacts of Native Americans. Reconciling the sins of our past means ensuring these remains are repatriated and reburied with the honor and respect they deserve.”

The bill will now move onto the Senate for consideration.