The Lumbee Tribe, long striving for federal recognition, has achieved a significant milestone with the U.S. Congress passing and President Trump signing the Lumbee Fairness Act. This historic action extends federal recognition to the Lumbee Tribe, enhancing their access to vital resources.
Governor Josh Stein highlighted the historical significance of the Lumbee Tribe, noting, “The history of the Lumbee Tribe in North Carolina long predates the history of the State of North Carolina itself.” He further emphasized that federal recognition will grant the Lumbee Tribe access to federal benefits in health care, education, housing, child care, and disaster relief, ultimately fostering economic growth for the tribe and its community.
Secretary Gabriel J. Esparza expressed his support by stating, “We celebrate with the Lumbee people in this long-awaited federal recognition that both acknowledges their history and provides access to much-needed resources for tribal members.” He leads the Administration Department, which includes the Commission of Indian Affairs.
Greg Bryant, Chair of the NC Commission of Indian Affairs, acknowledged the significance of this recognition, saying, “Generations of Lumbee have been waiting decades for this day. Words cannot adequately capture how meaningful and impactful this formal federal recognition is for our Lumbee tribal members, yes, but also for all the other native tribal members who call North Carolina home.”
Highlighting the broader impact, Pamela B. Cashwell, Secretary of Natural and Cultural Resources and a person of Lumbee heritage, remarked, “Full federal recognition will boost economic opportunity in southeastern North Carolina and cement the legacy of a tribe that has made so many important contributions to our state and nation.”
North Carolina is home to over 130,000 American Indians, with more than 40% being Lumbee. With over 56,000 members, the Lumbee Tribe stands as the largest tribe in the state and east of the Mississippi River. Despite multiple legislative attempts since 1974, this year marked the successful passage of recognition, aided by Governor Stein’s advocacy through a letter to Senate leaders.
Federal recognition will allow the Lumbee Tribe to directly apply for federal grants and receive services from the Bureau of Indian Affairs, the Bureau of Indian Education, and the Indian Health Service. These services encompass disaster assistance, education, natural resource management, housing, health care, transportation, and broadband internet access, which will benefit the state of North Carolina at large.
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