House Passes Lumbee Recognition Bill, Drawing Cherokee Nation Backlash
TAHLEQUAH, Okla. (Dec. 17, 2024) — The U.S. House of Representatives passed the Lumbee Fairness Act on Tuesday, a move that has sparked controversy among tribal leaders and lawmakers. Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr. condemned the legislation, calling it a decision based on "stories over evidence" and a threat to the integrity of the federal recognition process for Native American tribes. The Lumbee Fairness Act aims to grant federal recognition to the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina, providing access to federal funding and programs available to recognized tribes. The bill now heads to the Senate, where it faces uncertain prospects. In a press statement, Chief Hoskin expressed hope that the Senate would block the measure, emphasizing the importance of adhering to the established federal recognition process. "For nearly 50 years, Interior's Office of Federal Acknowledgement (OFA) and the measured and diligent Part 83 process have br...