Gov. Stein Celebrates Federal Recognition of Lumbee Tribe

Tuesday, Governor Stein celebrated the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina at the Commission of Indian Affairs' reception. The celebration also secured full federal recognition through the Lumbee Fairness Act.

“Today we celebrate this long-overdue recognition and honor generations of Lumbee leaders and families whose persistence made this moment possible,” said Governor Josh Stein. "The Lumbee Tribe is a vital and enduring part of our state’s history. Our state will work alongside federal partners to ensure that the 68,000 Lumbee Tribe members who call North Carolina home are able to access federal resources that will help them thrive."

On December 18, 2025, President Trump signed the Lumbee Fairness Act into law, officially granting full federal recognition to the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina. Supporters say the most corrects a historic injustice and opens the door for the Tribe to directly access critical federal funding and services.

With federal recognition in place, the Lumbee Tribe can now apply directly for grants and receive services from agencies including the Bureau of Indian Affairs, the Bureau of Indian Education, and the Indian Health Service. Those programs provide support for disaster assistance, education, natural resource management, housing, health care, transportation, and broadband internet access. Leaders say the expanded access will bring broader economic and infrastructure benefits across North Carolina.

With more than 68,000 members, the Lumbee Tribe is the largest tribe in North Carolina and the largest east of the Mississippi River. The state has officially recognized the Tribe since 1885. Although the Lumbee received federal recognition in 1956, they were denied the full benefits that typically accompany that status.

“As someone of Lumbee heritage, I can tell you that this recognition carries deep personal meaning,” said Secretary Pamela B. Cashwell. “Recognition will boost economic opportunity in southeastern North Carolina and cement the legacy of a tribe that has made so many important contributions to our state and nation.”