The Assembly of First Nations says it’s talking to the Vatican Museum about repatriating a number of sacred items currently in its collection.

National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak said Tuesday some logistical issues still need to be addressed before the items can be returned, including protocols to ensure their safe transfer.

The AFN said it will only announce further details once plans are finalized with the Vatican.

“For First Nations, these items are not artifacts. They are living, sacred pieces of our cultures and ceremonies and must be treated as the invaluable objects that they are,” Woodhouse Nepinak said.

“We appreciate the collaborative efforts of all the parties involved as this work is very important to First Nations.”

First Nations have for years called on the Vatican to

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