Lumbee Tribal Chairman John L. Lowery's Weekly Federal Recognition Update February 13, 2026.
- 5 days ago
- 3 min read
Hello everyone,
This week marked an important milestone as we held our first meeting with officials from the Indian Health Service at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. This initial conversation allowed us to begin building strong working relationships with the individuals who will guide us through the planning and implementation stages ahead. We discussed Indian Health Scholarships for our youth who are focusing on health care careers, opportunities to visit healthcare clinics operated by other tribal communities and explored the many offices and divisions within Health and Human Services. There are significant resources within HHS, and we are committed to learning how to effectively leverage these programs to strengthen healthcare access and services for our people.
I also attended the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) Executive Winter session, where I participated in a consultation meeting with the U.S. Departments of Education, Interior, and Labor. These three agencies are working on an agreement that could shift certain funding programs currently serving our Tribe and other entities within our service area. We made it clear that any changes must protect the integrity and goals of these programs. Continuity matters. Maintaining experienced subject-matter experts and avoiding delays in services is critical to ensuring our people do not experience disruption. During NCAI Executive Session, I had numerous one-on-one meetings with Tribal Leaders who discussed the ins and outs of working with BIA and IHS. They provided me with insight to ensure we do not hit some of the same road bumps that they have faced in the past when dealing with different organizations that work directly with Tribes. I appreciate these leaders seeking me out and having these discussions so that we as a Lumbee government will have a smoother transition than what some others may have faced in the past.
While in Washington, I had the honor of speaking on a panel for the Native American Contractors Association alongside Chairman Rodney Butler of the Pequot Nation and Ben Mallott, President of the Alaska Federation of Natives. Our discussion centered on how tribes are diversifying economic development efforts and our priorities surrounding the 8(a) federal contracting program. I was grateful for the opportunity to share our perspective and highlight the progress our Tribe is making in this space.
Another special moment during my visit was being honored by Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum and Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs Billy Kirkland. They presented me with a Certificate of Appreciation for service to the Lumbee Tribe and to Indian Country during a reception attended by tribal leaders from across the nation. I am humbled by this recognition, but it belongs to our people and the collective work we are doing together.
I also had productive time with Senator Tillis and staff from Congressman Rouzer’s office. Senator Tillis reaffirmed his commitment to continuing to push forward the priorities and concerns of the Lumbee Tribe. Strong partnerships remain essential as we move into this next phase of growth and opportunity.
Finally, thank you to LRDA for hosting a wonderful celebration last night, the first of its kind to highlight this historic year of recognition. With 575 commemorative t-shirts distributed and outstanding gospel performances, it was a powerful reminder of how far we’ve come and the unity that carries us forward. I look forward to seeing you all at the Wild Game Event and Community Day on Saturday, March 28th.
Thank you all, and I hope you have a great weekend.
