The North Carolina House this week passed a resolution calling for full federal recognition of the Lumbee Tribe, based in Robeson County.
Lumbee Tribal Chairman John Lowery joined WFAE's Nick de la Canal to talk about the ongoing effort, and what recognition could mean for the tribe. Listen to the full interview.
The tribe achieved partial recognition from Congress in 1956 but was barred from receiving federal services or benefits for American Indians, leaving members in what tribal leaders call a "legal limbo."
The resolution approved on Wednesday means the Lumbees now have bi-partisan support from state lawmakers for full federal recognition.
Also supporting the effort are North Carolina's two Republican senators, Thom Tillis and Ted Budd, as well as Republican Rep. David Rouzer, who've introduced federal legislation calling for recognition.
