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Nineteen skulls of Black patients who died in a New Orleans hospital in the 1870s and were sent to Germany for racist phrenological studies have been repatriated. After over a century, the University of Leipzig returned the remains, acknowledging their unethical acquisition. A multi-faith memorial and jazz funeral were held in New Orleans on Saturday to honor the deceased, with a ceremony including biographical readings and performances. The repatriation highlights the ongoing issue of human remains held in collections across the globe.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.