President Trump’s Action Brings Long-Awaited Recognition to Lumbee Tribe
In a move hailed as a victory for fairness and a fulfillment of promises made, President Donald Trump has signed into law the Lumbee Fairness Act, granting full federal recognition to the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina. This landmark decision marks the end of a decades-long struggle for the tribe, and underscores the importance of keeping commitments to often-overlooked communities.
For over 30 years, Congress has debated the merits of formally recognizing the Lumbee Tribe. This recognition became a reality after President Trump directed the Secretary of Interior to craft a plan to help the tribe gain federal status. The President’s action demonstrates a commitment to addressing long-standing issues and ensuring that all Americans, including Native American tribes, receive fair treatment under the law.
The Lumbee Tribe first sought federal recognition in the 1980s. Their initial request was turned down because of a 1956 Congressional act that acknowledged the tribe but did not extend federal benefits. While that decision was reversed in 2016, it took President Trump’s decisive action to finally achieve full federal recognition.
The Lumbee Fairness Act ensures that the Lumbee people will finally receive the benefits and services that have long been provided to other federally recognized tribes. This includes access to resources for healthcare, education, housing, and disaster relief – essential support that can significantly improve the lives of tribal members.
Representative David Rouzer (R-N.C.) praised the new law. He noted that it will give the Lumbee people the “full benefits and services long afforded to other federally recognized tribes.” Rouzer stated that he was proud to have worked with his colleagues to make this a reality.
The Eastern Band of Cherokee had opposed federal recognition for the Lumbee Tribe, arguing that the Lumbee did not meet the requirements for recognition due to inter-racial marriages, which they claimed violated the single-tribe lineage requirement. In response, Senator Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) criticized the Eastern Band of Cherokee, highlighting the importance of supporting the Lumbee Tribe’s right to self-determination and recognition.
Senator Tillis emphasized the historical significance of the moment, saying, “For 137 years, the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina fought for the full federal recognition they were promised, and today that promise has finally been fulfilled.” He added, “President Donald Trump pledged to get this done, and he kept that promise. By signing the Lumbee Fairness Act into law, a historic injustice has been corrected, and the Lumbee people can finally access the full federal benefits they have long earned and deserve.”
President Trump’s commitment to granting the Lumbee Tribe federal recognition was a key promise he made during his campaign. By fulfilling this pledge, he has demonstrated his dedication to standing by his word and delivering on the promises he makes to the American people.
This action underscores the importance of honoring commitments to Native American tribes and ensuring that they have the resources they need to thrive. The Lumbee Fairness Act represents a significant step forward in righting past wrongs and promoting a more just and equitable society for all Americans.
North Carolina Governor Josh Stein (D-N.C.) also weighed in on the matter, noting that the state has long recognized the Lumbee Tribe. Full federal recognition will give members access to federal health care, education, housing, child care, and disaster relief benefits. Stein feels these benefits will create economic opportunities for the Tribe and the surrounding community.
The Lumbee Fairness Act is an example of how conservative leadership, combined with a focus on fulfilling promises and addressing historical injustices, can lead to positive outcomes for communities across the nation. It demonstrates the importance of honoring our commitments and working towards a more equitable society for all Americans, regardless of their background or heritage.
