Senate Votes for Recognition of Lumbee: As NC Tribe Nears End of 137-Year Fight

For over a century, the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina has fought for federal recognition—a battle rooted in resilience, identity, and the pursuit of justice. Now, with a historic Senate vote, that long-awaited acknowledgment is closer than ever. This milestone isn’t just a political victory; it’s a testament to the enduring spirit of a community that has preserved its culture, language, and heritage against all odds.

In this article, we’ll explore the significance of the Lumbee Tribe’s federal recognition, the decades-long struggle behind it, and what this moment means for the future of Native American sovereignty and self-determination.

Who Are the Lumbee?

The Lumbee Tribe is the largest Native American tribe east of the Mississippi River, with more than 55,000 enrolled members. Their roots trace back to the coastal plains of North Carolina, where their ancestors have lived for centuries. Despite their deep historical presence, the Lumbee have faced systemic challenges in gaining full federal recognition—a status that grants tribes access to critical resources, healthcare, education, and legal protections.

Unlike many federally recognized tribes, the Lumbee were initially acknowledged by the state of North Carolina in 1885 but have spent the last 137 years pushing for full federal recognition. This fight has been marked by political hurdles, bureaucratic delays, and debates over tribal identity—making their recent Senate victory all the more significant.

Why Federal Recognition Matters

Federal recognition is more than a symbolic gesture; it’s a lifeline for Native American tribes. For the Lumbee, achieving this status would unlock:

• Access to federal funding: Healthcare, education, housing, and infrastructure programs that have long been out of reach.
• Legal sovereignty: The ability to govern their own affairs, manage tribal lands, and protect cultural heritage without external interference.
• Economic opportunities: Eligibility for grants, loans, and business development programs that can strengthen tribal communities.
• Cultural preservation: Resources to document, teach, and celebrate Lumbee history, language, and traditions for future generations.

For the Lumbee, federal recognition isn’t just about resources—it’s about reclaiming their rightful place in the fabric of American history. It’s about correcting a century of oversight and ensuring that their contributions, struggles, and triumphs are officially acknowledged.

The 137-Year Fight: A Timeline of Resilience

The Lumbee Tribe’s journey toward federal recognition has been anything but easy. Here’s a look at the key moments in their fight:

1885: State Recognition

The state of North Carolina officially recognizes the Lumbee as a tribe, but federal recognition remains elusive.

1956: Partial Federal Recognition

Congress passes the Lumbee Act, which acknowledges the tribe’s existence but denies them the full benefits of federal recognition. This compromise leaves the Lumbee in a legal limbo—recognized but not fully supported.

2009: The First Major Push

The Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina Recognition Act is introduced in Congress, sparking renewed hope. However, the bill stalls amid political debates and procedural hurdles.

2018: A Step Forward

The House of Representatives passes a bill granting full federal recognition to the Lumbee, but the Senate fails to take action before the legislative session ends.

2023: The Senate Votes

In a historic move, the Senate finally votes to advance the Lumbee Recognition Act, bringing the tribe one step closer to achieving their century-old goal. While the bill still faces procedural hurdles, the vote marks a turning point in the fight for justice.

What’s Next for the Lumbee Tribe?

While the Senate’s vote is a monumental step, the fight isn’t over yet. The Lumbee Recognition Act must still navigate the legislative process, including potential amendments, debates, and final approval from both chambers of Congress. If signed into law, it would grant the Lumbee the full federal recognition they’ve sought for generations.

For the Lumbee people, this moment is about more than politics—it’s about legacy. It’s about ensuring that their children and grandchildren grow up in a world where their identity is celebrated, their rights are protected, and their history is honored.

The Broader Impact oative American Communities

The Lumbee Tribe’s fight for recognition is part of a larger narrative of Native American sovereignty. Across the country, tribes continue to advocate for their rights, from land reclamation to cultural preservation. The Lumbee’s journey serves as both an inspiration and a reminder of the work that remains.

Federal recognition isn’t just a legal status—it’s a tool for empowerment. For tribes like the Lumbee, it means the ability to:

• Strengthen tribal governance and self-determination.
• Protect sacred lands and natural resources.
• Revitalize languages and traditions that have been suppressed for generations.
• Build economic independence through sustainable development.

As the Lumbee near the finish line of their 137-year fight, their story resonates with Native communities everywhere. It’s a reminder that justice delayed is not justice denied—and that perseverance can change history.

How You Can Support the Lumbee Tribe

If you’re inspired by the Lumbee’s journey, there are ways to stand in solidarity with their cause:

• Educate yourself: Learn about the history of the Lumbee Tribe and the challenges they’ve faced. Resources like the Lumbee Tribe’s official website are a great place to start.
• Advocate for recognition: Contact your representatives and urge them to support the Lumbee Recognition Act. Every voice makes a difference.
• Support Lumbee-owned businesses: From art to agriculture, Lumbee entrepreneurs contribute to their community’s economic growth. Seek out and support their work.
• Amplify their story: Share articles, documentaries, and social media posts about the Lumbee Tribe’s fight for recognition. Awareness is a powerful tool for change.

Conclusion: A Victory for Justice and Identity

The Senate’s vote for Lumbee recognition is more than a political milestone—it’s a victory for justice, identity, and the enduring strength of Native American communities. After 137 years of perseverance, the Lumbee Tribe stands on the brink of a new chapter, one where their heritage is officially honored, their rights are protected, and their future is secure.

This moment is a reminder that progress is possible, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds. It’s a call to action for all of us to stand with Indigenous communities in their fight for recognition, sovereignty, and self-determination.

As the Lumbee Tribe nears the end of their long journey, their story serves as an inspiration—not just for Native Americans, but for anyone who believes in the power of resilience, justice, and hope.

Related: The History of Native American Sovereignty in the U.S.

See also: How Federal Recognition Transforms Tribal Communities

Call to Action

Join the movement for Lumbee recognition. Contact your senators today and urge them to support the Lumbee Recognition Act. Together, we can help write the next chapter in this 137-year fight for justice.