Lumbee Tribe Advances Toward Federal Recognition

The North Carolina Lumbee Tribe is closer to gaining full federal recognition as a measure advances through Congress. The U.S. Senate began voting on a spending bill that includes language recognizing the Lumbee Tribe, following a vote in the U.S.

House of Representatives that approved the measure last Wednesday. Tribal members gathered at the Pembroke Boys and Girls Club to watch the Senate vote live, marking a historic moment for the community.

The Lumbee Tribe, the largest tribe in North Carolina, was first recognized by Congress in 1955, but that legislation did not grant access to federal benefits. Tribal leaders have pushed for decades for full federal recognition, asserting it would provide access to critical resources and acknowledge the tribe's sovereignty.

Teen Miss Lumbee Keely Deal emphasized that recognition would benefit future generations and honor the sacrifices of their ancestors. Chairman John Lowery expressed gratitude for the progress, stating that this moment signals the end of a long fight for recognition and the beginning of a new phase for Lumbee leadership.

If approved by the Senate, the measure would be sent to President Donald Trump for his signature, representing a major milestone for the Lumbee Tribe and its more than 55,000 members across North Carolina and beyond.