Vatican Returns Indigenous Artifacts to Canada After 100 Years

Return of Indigenous Artifacts

• 🤝 The Vatican, in partnership with the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops, has returned approximately 62 artifacts connected to Indigenous peoples of Canada.
• ⏳ These artifacts had been in the Vatican's possession for 100 years before their arrival at Montreal's airport.

Significance of the Artifacts

• 🌍 Indigenous representatives expressed that this return is a beginning, not an end, to a larger journey.
• 🏞️ They look forward to the ancestors' belongings experiencing the natural elements of their lands and waters again.
• 📜 The artifacts are considered more than just objects; they are described as belongings, ancestors, and vital indicators of nation's histories.
• ✊ Indigenous nations will now assert their rights to determine the best care for these returned items.