Harvey Godwin, chairman of the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina, recently testified before the U.S. Senate Committee on Indian Affairs on behalf of S-2285, the Lumbee Recognition Act. The measure would amend an existing bill passed in 1956 and grant the 55,000-member tribe full federal recognition, making them eligible for services and benefits provided to members of other federally recognized tribes and allowing the U.S. Department of Interior to take land into trust for the tribe for a variety of purposes–including gaming.
North Carolina Senator Richard Burr introduced the legislation in November. His spokesperson said, “This hearing is a good opportunity to examine federal recognition and let lawmakers better understand both the process, the benefits and the drawbacks for the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina.”
The Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, owners of Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River Casino and Hotel and Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort, have long opposed federal recognition for the Pembroke-based Lumbee Tribe.
In January 2015, state Rep. Richard Hudson introduced HR-184, authorizing the U.S. Department of Interior through the Bureau of Indian Affairs to place land into trust for the Lumbee Tribe, but prohibiting any parcels from being used for gambling. The measure has not yet received a hearing. Congress has not passed a federal standalone recognition bill since the mid-1990s.
The administration of President Barack Obama endorsed the efforts of the Lumbee Tribe in 2009. Hudson said, “The Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina is the largest tribe this side of the Mississippi and for 125 years has sought full federal recognition. I commend Senator Richard Burr and Chairman John Barrasso for their efforts in holding this hearing. Southeastern North Carolina has made tremendous strides in economic growth and granting the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina federal recognition has the potential to spur job creation and further revitalize the region to make life better for everyone in our community.”
