Seattle, Washington – A collection of ancient Mexican artifacts, including pottery, figurines, and household items, which had been brought to Seattle decades ago, is finally being returned to its rightful home in Mexico.
Homeland Security Investigations received a tip in January 2022 about a Seattle resident in possession of 36 ancient artifacts from Chiapas, Mexico. These artifacts, believed to be thousands of years old, were voluntarily returned by the resident, whose family member originally acquired them.
During a repatriation event at the Consulate of Mexico in Seattle, Homeland Security Investigations special agents officially handed over the artifacts to Mexican government officials. The significance of these items lies in their historical value, shedding light on Mexico’s past and raising questions about how they ended up in Seattle.
Héctor Iván Godoy Priske, Head Consul of Mexico in Seattle, emphasized the importance of returning these artifacts, noting that they predate Mexico as a country itself. Special Agent Robert Hammer highlighted the long history of these objects, which have changed hands over the centuries.
The return of these artifacts marks another step in Homeland Security Investigations’ efforts to repatriate cultural items to their countries of origin. Similar events have taken place across the United States, with the FBI recently returning looted artifacts to Japan and the Cleveland Museum of Art planning to return a stone statue to Libya.
The artifacts’ return not only honors Mexico’s history but also serves as a step towards healing the wounds of colonialism and violence inflicted upon indigenous populations. Mexico’s National Institute of Anthropology and History will determine the future of these artifacts, with their historical significance likely leading them to be placed in a museum for public viewing.
The repatriation of these ancient Mexican artifacts serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving cultural heritage and respecting the rights of nations to reclaim their historical treasures. It also highlights the ongoing efforts to address the legacy of colonialism and ensure that stolen artifacts are rightfully returned to their countries of origin.