The Lumbee Tribe’s Historic Journey to Federal Recognition
After over a century of perseverance, the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina has achieved a long-awaited milestone: full federal recognition. Members of the tribe gathered in Washington, D.C., to witness this historic moment, shedding tears of joy as President Trump signed the bill into law.
Tribal Chairman John L. Lowery expressed gratitude in a video message, acknowledging the efforts of those who fought for recognition since the 1880s. “I’m so thankful today for everyone who has helped us along this way,” Lowery said.
The federal recognition was granted through the Lumbee Fairness Act, included in the $900 billion military spending package. With 55,000 members, the Lumbee Tribe resides in the southeastern part of North Carolina, encompassing Robeson, Hoke, Cumberland, and Scotland Counties.
Federal recognition allows tribes access to crucial resources, including funding from the Bureau of Indian Affairs for housing, education, and healthcare. Lowery highlighted the importance of Indian Health Services, noting its potential to provide healthcare to uninsured or underinsured tribal members. He elaborated on this during a press conference.
The Congressional Budget Office estimated that health benefits would cost nearly $250 million over four years. With this recognition, the Lumbee can now enjoy self-governance rights, enhancing their control over economic development and land trust initiatives.
The journey to recognition began in 1888, with partial recognition granted in 1956. Governor Josh Stein celebrated the achievement, stating that federal recognition would provide the tribe with access to federal benefits and create economic opportunities. Sen. Thom Tillis, who sponsored the Lumbee Fairness Act, praised the decision, stating it was long overdue.
Despite the triumph, not all were in favor. The Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians opposed the recognition, arguing that the Lumbee did not follow proper procedures. Nevertheless, the Lumbee Tribe is now the 575th federally recognized tribe in the United States.
Lowery expressed pride in the accomplishment, stating, “I know with every fiber of my being that our ancestors are smiling down on us today.” The recognition marks the end of a long struggle and the beginning of new opportunities for the tribe.
Other tribes continue to seek federal acknowledgment through the Interior Department. The process involves meeting specific criteria, including proving continuous community existence since 1900, as outlined on the Office of Federal Acknowledgement website.
For many petitioners, the wait for recognition can span decades, underscoring the significance of the Lumbee Tribe’s recent achievement.
This article was originally written by www.npr.org
