Senator Thom Tillis Advocates for Lumbee Tribe Federal Recognition

The Lumbee Fairness Act

• 🎯 Senator Thom Tillis is advocating for the Lumbee Tribe's federal recognition through the Lumbee Fairness Act.
• 🤝 The bill has overwhelming bipartisan support, a rarity in current politics, with backing from former and current presidents, governors, and nearly all members of the North Carolina congressional delegation.
• 🌍 More than 235 federally recognized tribes, including the Alaska Federation of Natives, have also expressed their support for the Lumbee people.

Historical Injustices and Federal Policy

• ⏳ The Lumbee have been seeking federal recognition for 137 years, since 1885 when they were first recognized by the state of North Carolina.
• 💔 During the 20th century's termination era, the Lumbee Act of 1956 acknowledged the tribe but denied them essential federal benefits and recognition afforded to other tribes.
• ✅ The federal government has since worked to rectify injustices for nearly all tribes affected by the termination era, except for the Lumbee.

Opposition and Financial Motivations

• 💰 A small but persistent opposition, primarily from the Eastern Band of the Cherokee Indians, is reportedly motivated by financial self-interest, using high-priced lobbyists and spreading misinformation.
• 📢 This opposition has previously attempted to block other tribes' recognition efforts, such as the Catawba tribe's land and trust application.
• 📣 Reports funded by this opposition have been discredited and condemned by the National Congress of the American Indians.

Congressional Recognition as Precedent

• ⚖️ Senator Tillis argues that recognition through Congress is the norm, with more tribes recognized by legislation than through the administrative process since 1978.
• 📜 Examples of tribes recognized by Congress include the Little Shell Tribe of the Chippewa Indians and six Virginia tribes.
• 🏛️ The argument that Congress should not act and leave recognition solely to the Interior Department is refuted by historical precedent.

The Lumbee Community and Call to Action

• 📍 Visiting Lumbee communities in North Carolina reveals a rich culture, deep roots, and significant contributions to the state and nation.
• 🎖️ Many Lumbee individuals are veterans who have served the country honorably, highlighting their dedication and sacrifice.
• ✊ The Lumbee people are not asking for special treatment, but for fair treatment and recognition that they have earned and deserve.
• ❤️ Senator Tillis emphasizes that this issue is personally important to him, viewing it as a significant injustice that needs to be righted through an act of Congress.