American Indian Ritual Object Repatriation Foundation

Reuben A. Snake, Winnebago, was a Founding Trustee and Spiritual Advisor of the American Indian Ritual Object Repatriation Foundation, and a good friend. He served on the Board of over fifteen national Native American organizations and was an active leader in shaping national and international American Indian and Alaska Native cultural affairs.

Reuben’s absence continues to be felt in many Indian communities and in the hearts of individuals.

Michael Stephen Haney, Seminole/Lakota Sioux, was a longtime activist and member of the American Indian Movement. He created and led the National Coalition on Racism in Sports and Media. Michael also lobbied for the passage of federal laws including the Indian Child Welfare Act, and the 1978 American Indian Freedom of Religion Act. Michael was a mediator for Native Nations within their respective States. Michael was adamantly opposed to and fought against the use of Indian names and mascots by America's sports teams.

Michael served on the American Indian Ritual Object Repatriation Foundation’s Board from 1993 - 2005

Vine Deloria, Jr., Esq., Standing Rock Sioux, was one of the most important American Indian legal activists of the 20th century. Best known as the author of "Custer Died for Your Sins: An Indian Manifesto" (1969) he wrote more then twenty books on tribal sovereignty, American History, religion, science, and United States/Indian treaties. He worked tirelessly for legislation to protect ancestral remains, and sacred sites.

Vine served on the American Indian Ritual Object Repatriation Foundation’s Board from 1997 – 2004.