Vatican Returns 62 Indigenous Artifacts to Canada in Historic Reconciliation Effort

Historic Repatriation Marks New Chapter

A collection of 62 Indigenous artifacts, held for a century within the Vatican's ethnographic collection, arrived in Canada on Saturday, December 6, 2025. The cultural belongings, originating from First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities, touched down at Montréal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport, marking a significant moment in ongoing reconciliation efforts.

The return was welcomed by leaders including Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak, National Chief of the Assembly of First Nations (AFN), who described it as 'an important and emotional moment for many First Nations across this country'. Katisha Paul, a youth representative for the Union of British Columbia Indian Chiefs, emphasized the profound significance of the items, stating, 'They are our belongings, our ancestors, vital indicators of our nations' histories'.

A Century in the Vatican's Collection

The artifacts were originally sent to Rome between 1923 and 1925 for a Vatican Missionary Exhibition organized by Pope Pius XI. They became part of the Vatican Museum's ethnographic collection, known as the Anima Mundi museum. Historians and Indigenous groups have long questioned the circumstances of their acquisition, noting that many items were collected during a period of forced conversion and cultural suppression.

Among the returned items are a rare, century-old Inuvialuit kayak, once used for beluga whale hunts, along with wampum belts, embroidered leather gloves, Gwich'in baby belts, masks, moccasins, etchings, war clubs, and a baby-carrying sling. The Inuvialuit Regional Corporation (IRC) successfully negotiated for the return of the kayak, with CEO Duane Ningaqsiq Smith highlighting its importance in revitalizing Inuvialuit cultural identity.

Journey Towards Reconciliation

The repatriation process gained momentum following a 2022 meeting between Indigenous leaders and the late Pope Francis in Rome, where discussions included the legacy of church-run residential schools and calls for the return of artifacts. Pope Francis had promised the return of these items, a commitment fulfilled by his successor, Pope Leo XIV. The Vatican described the return as a 'gift' and a 'concrete sign of dialogue, respect and fraternity'.

The artifacts were formally handed over to the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops (CCCB), who will facilitate their transfer to National Indigenous Organizations and ultimately to their communities of origin. The items will be temporarily housed at the Canadian Museum of History in Ottawa/Gatineau. Canadian Identity and Culture Minister Marc Miller was also present at the airport to welcome the artifacts, acknowledging the cultural restoration for Indigenous communities.

A First Step in a Longer Journey

While the return of these 62 items is celebrated as a significant step, Indigenous leaders emphasize that it is just the beginning. National Chief Woodhouse Nepinak noted, 'There's more First Nations artifacts at the Vatican Museum. This is just the start'. The ongoing efforts underscore the importance of truth, justice, and healing in the reconciliation process between the Catholic Church and Indigenous Peoples in Canada.