Michael Haney

Michael Haney, an activist of Seminole and Sioux heritage, has been a key figure in Native American rights advocacy, particularly concerning the repatriation of ancestral remains and sacred objects. As an official of the United Indian Nations and Chairman of the Repatriation Committee, Haney was instrumental in early protests surrounding the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA). In October 1990, he led a group of picketers into an archaeology conference to draw attention to the desecration of Native American graves. He also mobilized crowds to protest Illinois Governor James R. Thompson's decision to retain Native American remains, highlighting systemic issues in the handling of indigenous cultural patrimony by institutions and museums.

Haney's activism extended to challenging disrespectful representations of Native Americans, such as sports mascots, where he risked personal safety and freedom as a member of the American Indian Movement. Standing at 6 feet 5 inches and described as larger than life, Haney commanded attention in his efforts. His work intersected with academia through collaboration with Keith W. Kintigh, Professor in the Department of Anthropology at Arizona State University. In 2001, they participated together in the "Hidden Archaeology" symposium organized by the Arizona Archaeological Council, alongside James Riding In and filmmaker Jed Riffe. This event addressed concealed aspects of archaeological practices relevant to indigenous communities. Haney provided statements in repatriation committee reports and contributed to discussions on NAGPRA implementation, influencing the balance between scientific interests and indigenous rights in anthropology and archaeology.