The repatriation of 16 ancestral skulls from Sydney to Papua New Guinea was marked by vibrant ceremonies celebrating cultural heritage and communal mourning. The remains were returned to residents of six villages, including Gorendu and Bilibil, with acknowledgment of their historical significance. This ceremony allowed the local communities to honor their ancestors, whose names are still cherished today. Over 150 years after their initial removal during an expedition by scientist Nickolai N. Miklouho-Maclay, the return was seen as restorative for their history and a reaffirmation of identity among the people.
People are looking at [the repatriation] as a rebirth of their history, in some ways, and to think about those people and the wisdom of that time.
These ancestors were taken by Nickolai almost 150 years ago, to support his work promoting one shared humanity.
As we got to the beach, four young men dressed as warriors came to us with spears and bows and arrows and shouting.
The journey spans time and distance and we extend gratitude.
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