In late 2022, the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina achieved a significant milestone by becoming the 575th tribe to gain federal recognition as a sovereign nation. This recognition is expected to provide the tribe with access to the Indian Health Service (IHS), which includes clinics, hospitals, and potential funding to develop their own health system. However, the IHS has been historically underfunded, with an estimated shortfall of nearly $55 billion for the current year. The nearest IHS facility is over two hours away for most of the 55,000 Lumbee citizens residing in Robeson County, which is known for its poor health statistics, including high rates of heart disease and diabetes. The tribe's leaders, including chairman John Lowery, have expressed hope that federal recognition will lead to improved healthcare funding, but they also acknowledge the need for alternative revenue sources, such as gaming, to address the health disparities faced by their community. Despite the potential benefits, there is concern about the negative impacts of gaming on tribal health, as highlighted by experts in the field. The Lumbee Tribe's journey toward federal recognition has been a long and challenging one, dating back to 1888, and while this victory is celebrated, the path forward remains uncertain as they navigate the complexities of healthcare funding and community health improvement efforts. Jada Brooks, a Lumbee citizen and researcher, is currently studying heart health among Lumbee women, emphasizing the importance of addressing these health issues within the community.
