Catawba Nation and the Lumbee Tribe Celebrate Historic Signing of Government-to-Government Agreement

There was much to celebrate today as the Catawba Nation and the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina came together for the historic signing of a Government-to-Government Principles of Agreement, which is considered similar to a modern-day treaty between the two tribal nations. This historic covenant will mark a new day of guided principles between the two nations as they have agreed to move forward together in friendship and partnership, while also protecting the sovereignty of each nation.

The agreement signing took place at noon at the Lumbee Tribe Cultural Center with guest from across the region to witness the historic event. This agreement begins a new era of support, resilience, as well as prosperity for both Tribes. Lumbee Tribal Chairman John L. Lowery and Catawba Nation Chief Brian Harris kicked off this monumental occasion by participating in the Annual Summer Solstice Ceremonial Fire, in which they began together with two (2) ceremonial fires, which became one to symbolize our tribes are bonded forever, with a bond never to be broken.

Following the Fire Ceremony, Chief Harris and Chairman Lowery were presented with the tail feather of an Eagle. The leaders from the two nations signed the agreement before a large audience today. Both nations also shared gifts of pottery. Catawba Chief Harris presented Lumbee Tribal Chairman Lowery with a gift of a Chairman's pottery vase. Chairman Lowery presented and wrapped Chief Harris with a quilt from one of our Lumbee Elders.

The Catawba Nation and the Lumbee Tribe of N.C. have a longstanding relationship with families moving between the two tribes for centuries.

Here is a look at historic signing and the celebrations.