The Lumbee Regional Development Association (LRDA) extends its deepest gratitude to our Tribal leadership, advocates, and allies whose unwavering commitment and perseverance led to the final passage and signing of the Lumbee Fairness Act into law.

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This historic action represents the long-overdue correction of a federal injustice that has burdened the Lumbee people since 1956. For generations, Lumbee leaders, community members, and supporters have worked tirelessly to ensure that fairness, equity, and justice would one day prevail. Today, that collective effort has been honored—affirming the truth that justice delayed should never mean justice denied.

 

LRDA offers special recognition and sincere thanks to Chairman John Lowery for his steadfast leadership, vision, and dedication to the Lumbee people throughout this long journey. His commitment to unity, advocacy, and service has been instrumental in guiding the Tribe to this historic moment.

 

LRDA also extends profound gratitude to Arlinda Locklear, whose tireless legal advocacy, strategic leadership, and unwavering belief in justice have been central to advancing the Lumbee cause. Her work reflects generations of Lumbee resilience and determination, and her impact will be felt for years to come.

 

Founded in 1968 during President Lyndon B. Johnson’s “Great Society” era, LRDA has been rooted in service to the Lumbee people for more than five decades. Established by visionary Lumbee leaders Roderick Locklear, Horace Locklear, Gerald Sider, and Bruce Jones, LRDA was created to improve the social, educational, and economic conditions of Lumbee communities through access to opportunity, advocacy, and partnership.

 

Over the years, LRDA has expanded access to education, employment, housing, and economic development; strengthened community infrastructure; and preserved and celebrated Lumbee culture and identity. LRDA is also the proud founder and organizer of Lumbee Homecoming, the largest American Indian celebration in the Southeast, which serves as a powerful expression of cultural pride, unity, and resilience.

 

LRDA has long supported efforts toward full federal recognition, understanding that fairness under the law is essential to the well-being and future of the Lumbee people.

 

This moment represents more than a change in law—it is the fulfillment of generations of advocacy, sacrifice, and unwavering belief in justice. For the Lumbee people, justice was delayed for far too long, but today we affirm that justice has not been denied.