But for the people who sought repatriation, the burial was the point.

A returned ancestor does not need to remain a public spectacle.

In fact, ending public access may be part of what return means.

The modern media environment often treats historical remains as content.

Photographs circulate.

Reconstructions are made.

Headlines rank the “oldest mummies” and “strangest skeletons.” Audiences are encouraged to stare.

Reburial interrupts that cycle.

It says that not every ancient body exists for public consumption.

That is a difficult idea for institutions built around display and access, but it is central to repatriation.