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NC senators introduce bill to recognize Lumbees

By The Associated Press

Story Published: Oct 21, 2009

Story Updated: Oct 21, 2009

RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) – North Carolina’s senators have introduced a bill to provide federal recognition to the state’s Lumbee Indian tribe.

Republican Sen. Richard Burr and Democratic Sen. Kay Hagan jointly introduced the bill Oct. 1. There are 55,000 Lumbee Indians in Robeson, Cumberland, Hoke and Scotland counties.

The tribe began its quest for recognition in 1888, three years after North Carolina formally recognized it. Congress partially recognized the tribe in 1956 but denied the Lumbees federal benefits given to other American Indians.

The House approved federal recognition for the Lumbees in June. President Barack Obama has pledged to support recognition of the Lumbee Tribe. Other tribes have opposed congressional recognition of the Lumbees, questioning their ability to trace members to a historic tribe.

Copyright 2009 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

Monday, Oct 26 at 11:29 AM Shawn Scott wrote ...

Long time coming. I just want to keep our heritage alive. Thanks to all the ones that worked hard to make this happen. Adolph Dail, Lonnie Revels, and others rest in peace. TOTE

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Thursday, Oct 22 at 11:24 PM Tino wrote ...

It's about time. They need to be recognized. Some of our best native scholars come from this nation

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