Lumbee Tribe Secures Long-Awaited Federal Recognition After 137-Year Struggle

Tribal Chairman John L. Lowery expressed his gratitude to those who had supported the tribe throughout its fight for recognition. "I'm so thankful today for everyone who has helped us along this way - everyone from our ancestors from the late 1880s all the way up to present day. So many people have been a part of this fight," Lowery said in a video posted to the tribe's social media accounts. The Lumbee Tribe has been seeking federal recognition since 1885, when it first petitioned the U.S. government for acknowledgment. Despite numerous attempts and setbacks, the tribe continued to push for recognition, with many members dedicating their lives to the cause. The tribe's efforts were finally rewarded with the passage of the bill, which extends federal recognition to the Lumbee Tribe and its approximately 60,000 enrolled members. The recognition is expected to have significant benefits for the tribe, including access to federal funding and services. It will also allow the tribe to participate in the federal government's Indian Child Welfare Act, which provides support for Native American families and children. Additionally, the recognition will enable the tribe to establish its own law enforcement agency and tribal court system. The Lumbee Tribe's struggle for recognition has been a long and difficult one, with many setbacks and challenges along the way. However, the tribe's perseverance and determination have ultimately paid off, and its members are now celebrating a major victory. As Lowery noted, the recognition is not just a victory for the Lumbee Tribe, but also for the many individuals and organizations that have supported the tribe throughout its fight. The Lumbee Tribe's recognition is also seen as a significant step forward for Native American communities across the country. It highlights the importance of federal recognition and the benefits it can bring to tribes and their members. As the tribe looks to the future, it is expected to continue to work with federal and state officials to ensure that its members receive the support and services they need. In a statement, the Lumbee Tribe's leadership expressed its gratitude to President Trump and the U.S. Congress for their support. "We are grateful for the hard work and dedication of our federal and state partners who have helped us achieve this historic milestone," the statement read. "We look forward to continuing to work with them to build a brighter future for our tribe and our community."