The history of the United States is enhanced by the many cultures and peoples that make up this nation. These cultures and peoples bring together diverse languages, ceremonies, practices, rites and stories; all of which add to our nation's vibrancy and strength, engender our compassion, and define our collective history.
The ACHP recognizes and respects that certain historic properties retain religious and cultural significance to federally recognized Indian Tribes, Native Hawaiian, and other Indigenous Peoples and that preservation of such properties may be imperative for the continuing survival of their values and culture. Therefore, the ACHP shall develop and implement its programs in a manner that respects these traditional values and customs and strives to recognize that certain historic properties may be essential elements of actual living cultures and communities.
Indigenous Knowledge
ACHP Policy Statement on Indigenous Knowledge and Historic Preservation
Climate Impacts to Tribal and Native Hawaiian Historic Properties
Climate Adaptation and Resilience
Burial Sites, Human Remains, and Funerary Objects
United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples
The ACHP encourages federal agencies, State Historic Preservation Officers, the historic preservation community, and the general public to become familiar with the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. It is important because it expresses both the aspirations of indigenous peoples around the world and those of States in seeking to improve their relations with indigenous peoples.
In 2010, the United States reversed its position and announced that it supports the Declaration. U.S. support goes hand in hand with the U.S. commitment to address the consequences of a history in which, as President Obama recognized, “few have been more marginalized and ignored by Washington for as long as Native Americans-our First Americans.” That commitment is reflected in the many policies and programs being implemented by federal agencies, including the ACHP.