The Public Schools of Robeson County and the PSRC Board of Education extends a heartfelt congratulations to the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina on achieving full federal recognition! This historic milestone marks the culmination of more than a century of perseverance and advocacy by the Lumbee people and their leaders.
After 137 years of effort, Congress included the Lumbee Fairness Act in the 2026 National Defense Authorization Act, and President Donald Trump signed it into law on December 18, 2025, officially granting the Lumbee Tribe full federal recognition.
Federal recognition opens doors to additional resources that can profoundly impact the lives of tribal members including many of our students and their families by expanding access to services that can strengthen opportunities for future generations.
This achievement is a powerful affirmation of the Lumbee’s identity, history, and resilience.
We are proud of our strong partnerships with the Lumbee Tribe and anticipate a brighter future ahead for our communities, schools and county as a whole.