Senate Unanimously Votes to Return Remains of Indigenous Ancestors
In a significant move towards addressing colonial injustices, the French Senate has voted unanimously to return the remains of six members of the Kalina Indigenous community, who suffered from disease during an 1892 exhibition at the Jardin d’acclimatation in Paris. This decision not only highlights the historical significance of the leisure park, which has been a fixture in the city for over 150 years, but also marks a pivotal moment in France’s reconciliation with its colonial past.
Historical Context of the Jardin d’acclimatation
Established in the mid-19th century, the Jardin d’acclimatation was initially intended to introduce and acclimatize exotic plant and animal species to France. However, between 1877 and 1931, it became notorious for “ethnological shows,” wherein Indigenous peoples from colonized territories were displayed in “traditional” attire. This practice drew large crowds who witnessed Indigenous cultures through a colonial lens. Among those exhibited were 33 individuals from the Kalina and Arawak communities of modern-day French Guiana and Suriname.
Recent Legislative Developments
The vote in the Senate on Monday was not just a routine legislative action; it represented a rare legislative unity across the political spectrum, backed by lawmakers from the left, right, and center. Lawmaker Catherine Morin-Desailly stated, “We are talking about men and women, human beings torn from their land, their people, and their dignity.” This sentiment resonated throughout the chamber, highlighting the shame and horror inflicted upon Indigenous communities.
The bill will facilitate the repatriation of six sets of remains, along with eight casts of their bodies currently held at the Muséum national d’Histoire naturelle. These ancestral bones will be returned to their homeland, which lies over 7,000 kilometers away.
Advocacy and Cultural Reparation
Corinne Toka-Devilliers, the great-great-granddaughter of one of the displayed individuals, Moliko, has been a leading voice for the repatriation efforts. Toka-Devilliers expressed relief upon hearing her ancestors’ names spoken in the Senate, emphasizing that “naming them restores their humanity.” Her advocacy is fueled by the commitment to seek recognition and reparations for colonized peoples, highlighting a colonial practice that has been largely ignored.
Toka-Devilliers leads the association Moliko Alet+Po, dedicated to the descendants of those exploited. “Acknowledging this history is a significant step forward for the French state – and for all those who have been colonized,” she remarked.
Moving Forward: Legislative Gaps and Future Prospects
Although the recent efforts signify progress, challenges remain. A legislative loophole currently restricts the repatriation process, only allowing returns of human remains based on requests from foreign states, which excludes France’s overseas territories. Culture Minister Catherine Pégard voiced support for new legislation aimed at simplifying the repatriation of remains.
“This is an important first step, but we need to ensure that all Indigenous groups have the opportunity to reclaim their ancestors,” Toka-Devilliers stated. “Our people are ready to return home – and our land is ready to welcome them.”
Conclusion
The Senate’s unanimous vote represents a historic acknowledgment of France’s colonial past and the suffering of Indigenous communities. As France endeavors to reconcile with its colonial history, the return of the Kalina remains serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring impacts of colonialism and the need for further reparative actions. With ongoing advocacy and support for new legislation, there is hope for a future where more Indigenous ancestors can finally be laid to rest in their homelands.
