Vatican to Return Indigenous Artefacts to Canada in Historic Gesture

The Vatican is poised to return multiple artefacts to Indigenous communities in Canada, marking a significant step in addressing its historical role in the repression of Indigenous cultures. The move follows Pope Francis's 2022 meeting with Indigenous leaders, during which he apologized for the church's involvement in Canada's residential schools.

These artefacts, including an Inuit kayak, are part of the Anima Mundi museum collection. Their restitution was expedited after Indigenous leaders, during their Vatican visit, requested the return of items like wampum belts and war clubs. The Vatican aims to return these items by the end of the year, with the Canadian Museum of History aiding in their identification and repatriation.

Controversy surrounds the origins of these items, initially sent to Rome for a 1925 exhibition. Historians question their free donation amid power imbalances in Catholic missions. The Vatican's efforts follow a 'church-to-church' model, seen previously with its return of Parthenon Marbles to the Orthodox Christian Church in Greece.