On this episode of Coming to the Mat, we delve into the repatriation of human remains from German collections in the Pacific region. Our guest, Dr. Tarisi Vunidilo, a Fijian archaeologist and postdoctoral fellow at the University of Göttingen, sheds light on the history of this repatriation effort, which demonstrates Germany's acknowledgement of its colonial past and its push to confront it.

With the repatriation of over 1,000 human remains from Oceania, 900 of which are from Papua New Guinea, Dr. Vunidilo plays a vital role as a liaison between German collections and Pacific museums and communities. Through her work with the Pacific Islands Museums Association, she facilitates communication and helps return these human remains to their rightful homes.

Dr. Vunidilo's work is part of the Sensitive Provenances research project, funded by the Volkswagen Foundation, at the University of Göttingen. This project aims to understand the origins of human remains, their acquisition, transfer, and transformation into scientific knowledge and teaching materials. With her deep knowledge of archaeology and passion for indigenous histories, Dr. Vunidilo is uniquely positioned to make a significant impact in the repatriation process.

Join us for a fascinating discussion with Dr. Vunidilo as she shares her thoughts on the importance of preserving Pacific indigenous cultural heritage and her personal journey as a researcher from the Pacific. This episode will be an inspiring journey through the history and significance of repatriation, and the connection between societies of origin and the rightful return of human remains. Don't miss it!