Manitoba Museum Apologizes for Holding Ancestral Remains

Press Release

May 22, 2025

Treaty One Territory, Winnipeg, MB – Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak attended the Manitoba Museum’s Apology, as administrators took responsibility for the Museum’s “actions, inactions and failures, past and present” in holding ancestral remains and artifacts in its collections.

The Manitoba Museum’s apology holds deep significance for First Nations, as it acknowledges the harm caused by removing and holding ancestral remains and artifacts without consent. This apology recognizes the museum’s role in colonial practices which contributed to systemic racism, discrimination and disrespect of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples.

By committing to repatriation, through the Homeward Journey Apology, the museum has promised to return Ancestral remains to their rightful communities, guided by Indigenous Knowledge Keepers and community members. The Manitoba Museum has identified more than 40 ancestral remains and artifacts dating back up to 500 years, including remains removed near York Factory and the Arctic Coast.

MKO Grand Chief Garrison Settee said the apology begins to restore cultural dignity and fosters healing, however it is just the beginning.

“We acknowledge the apology as a good first step, but true and meaningful action must follow. Repatriating the Ancestors with full involvement from Elders, leadership and community members is essential. First Nations people have carried the weight of these injustices for too long—now, institutions must take real responsibility and commit to meaningful action. The work is far from over.”

The Manitoba Museum has promised no Ancestors will enter the museum in the future.

MKO calls on other museums and post-secondary institutions, in Manitoba, Canada and around the world, to actively work with Indigenous communities to repatriate ancestral remains and sacred artifacts, ensuring dignity, respect, and justice.

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Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak Inc. (MKO) is a non-profit, political advocacy organization that has represented 26 First Nation communities in Manitoba’s North since 1981. The MKO represents more than 72,000 First Nations people.

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