PEMBROKE, NC – The U.S. Senate’s 77-20 passage of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) marked a historic moment for the Lumbee Tribe, prompting cheers and tears from hundreds of Lumbee citizens gathered at the Pembroke Boys & Girls Club.
From the U.S. Senate Gallery, Lumbee Tribal Chairman John Lowery watched as the final votes were cast, bringing decades of advocacy closer to fulfillment.
“I know with every fiber of my being that our ancestors are smiling down on us today,” said Chairman Lowery. “After decades of waiting, praying and fighting, our tribe has crossed a barrier that once seemed impossible to overcome. I am deeply grateful to every person who dedicated themselves to making this moment a reality, especially Sen. Thom Tillis, whose leadership ensured our legislation was included in the NDAA. Today, I am filled with profound joy, humility and gratitude, knowing the sacrifices, faith and perseverance that brought us to this moment in our history.”
Over two days, more than 1,000 Lumbee citizens and community members gathered at the Pembroke Boys & Girls Club to await the Senate’s final vote. For a tribe that has sought full federal recognition for more than a century, the hourslong wait reflected a legacy of patience and determination.
The passage of the NDAA represents a long-sought measure of justice for Lumbee citizens. While Congress acknowledged the Lumbee Tribe in 1956, it did so without granting full federal recognition or access to associated benefits. Federal recognition affirms a government-to-government relationship between a tribal nation and the United States and provides access to resources that support healthcare, education and economic development.
Lumbee Tribal Council Speaker Alex Baker said the Senate’s action fulfills a promise long-owed to the tribe.
“Today, the Lumbee Tribe becomes the 575th federally recognized tribe in the nation,” said Baker. “This moment reflects more than a century of perseverance, petitions, testimony and prayer. We honor our ancestors who preserved our identity across generations without federal acknowledgment.”
The legislation now moves to the President’s desk for his signature.