"Today the Senate Indian Affairs Committee will consider the Lumbee Recognition Act, a bill I introduced to provide full federal recognition to the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina.

In 1885, the Lumbee were recognized as a tribe by the State of North Carolina, but when the U.S. Congress passed the Lumbee Act in 1956, the bill unjustly denied the tribe the assistance that every other federally recognized tribe receives.

On many occasions I have met with the Lumbee people, and I am always inspired by their tremendous pride and determination, even after years of disappointments. Sadly their resolve continues to be tested, not only as they strive for federal recognition, but also as their Robeson County community is plagued by social ills, including a murder rate more than three times the state average."

Get the Story:
Sen. Elizabeth Dole: Help for the Lumbee (The Charlotte News & Observer 8/2)

Hearing Info:
LEGISLATIVE HEARING on S. 660, the Lumbee Recognition Act (July 12, 2006)

Lumbee Recognition Bills:
S.660 | H.R.21 | H.R.4171

Relevant Links:
Official Lumbee Tribe website - http://www.lumbeetribe.com
Lumbee Regional Development Association - http://www.lumbee.org

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