An initiative which is part of an evolving legislative context. A framework law, tabled on October 4 in the Senate, aims to regulate the restitution of overseas human remains. At the same time, MP Christophe Marion was commissioned to write a report on the subject, recently received by the Ministry of Culture
Corinne Toka-Devilliers, president of the Moliko Alet-Po association, was present during the consultation. She welcomes the progress and hopes for rapid adoption of the law: “We expect that this framework law will really be for everything that is overseas and everything that is French human remains […] The report is finished, I don't think there will be any concerns about it. »
According to her, this law could mark a world first for France in terms of restitution of human remains to its overseas departments: “A request for restitution of French human remains has never been made […] For us, it will be a first and great victory, even historic. »
Read here: Rachida Dati, Minister of Culture: “The issue of restitution of human remains is not only a diplomatic subject, but also a national issue, for our compatriots overseas”
Unprecedented collaborative work
This restitution is based on an unprecedented collaborative effort between the Moliko Alet-Po association, the Museum of Man and parliamentary authorities. Corinne Toka-Devilliers underlines the importance of this cooperation: “There is truly collaborative work that is being done […] Today, we have all the supporting evidence to say that they are Kali'na, two Arawaks. » She also welcomes the openness of the Musée de l'Homme to this approach, a significant development compared to the past.
-If the law is passed, the descendants of Malé and Kuani could welcome the busts to Guyana by the end of the year. For Corinne Toka-Devilliers, this would be a symbolic and restorative gesture, not only for the families, but also for all indigenous peoples.
Damien CHAILLOT
France
