Governor Stein celebrates federal recognition of Lumbee Tribe

RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- Governor Josh Stein is celebrating the federal recognition of the Lumbee Tribe.

Stein and the N.C. Commission of Indian Affairs held a reception at the Executive Mansion on Tuesday afternoon.

“Even when it seemed unlikely, folks kept fighting, they kept pushing, and it is because of them and you that we are here today,” said Gov. Stein.

Federal recognition of the Lumbee Tribe was included in last year’s defense bill, granting all 68,000 members in the state access to federal benefits, including health care and education.