Story perspectives

Vatican Returns 62 Artifacts to Indigenous Leaders in Canada

12/9/2025

Summary

Story summary

On December 6, 2025, the Vatican returned 62 cultural artifacts to Indigenous leaders in Canada, signaling reconciliation.
The items were taken from First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities over a century and include a rare Inuit kayak.
National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak said the return is important, despite the Vatican describing the items as 'gifts'.
Artifacts will be displayed at the Canadian Museum of History before returning to their communities.

1 of 1

Story summary

On December 6, 2025, the Vatican returned 62 cultural artifacts to Indigenous leaders in Canada, signaling reconciliation.
The items were taken from First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities over a century and include a rare Inuit kayak.
National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak said the return is important, despite the Vatican describing the items as 'gifts'.
Artifacts will be displayed at the Canadian Museum of History before returning to their communities.