[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 82 (Wednesday, June 3, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1302]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




THE LUMBEE RECOGNITION ACT AND THE THOMASINA E. JORDAN INDIAN TRIBES OF 
                VIRGINIA FEDERAL RECOGNITION ACT OF 2009

                                 ______
                                 

                       HON. DONNA M. CHRISTENSEN

                         of the virgin islands

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, June 3, 2009

  Mrs. CHRISTENSEN. Madam Speaker, I am honored to join my colleagues 
to once again support H.R. 31, the Lumbee Recognition Act offered by 
Rep. McIntyre and H.R. 1385, the Thomasina E. Jordan Indian Tribes of 
Virginia Recognition Act of 2009 introduced by Rep. Moran.
  It is only fitting that these indigenous populations be officially 
recognized as Native peoples of this land. As we move forward as a 
Nation to level the playing field for all citizens, H.R. 31 and H.R. 
1385 is undoubtedly a monumental step in righting these historical 
tragedies. I second the sentiments of our President in his remarks that 
Congress should intervene and recognize the Lumbee Indians as a tribal 
group.
  Aptly extending federal distinction to the Lumbee, Chickahominy, 
Chickahominy--Eastern Division, Upper Mataponi, Rappahannock, Monacan 
and Nansemond tribes is the only way to address hundreds of years of 
injustice endured.
  Federal recognition will dramatically transform the lives of the 
Native American tribes currently being considered. Our failure to 
extend federal recognition to them has meant years of discriminatory 
treatment. Countless individuals have had difficulty naming children, 
getting marriage licenses and even getting inducted into military 
service. Other communities have been disproportionately affected by 
interruptions and cuts in funding that are crucial to services provided 
by tribal programs.
  It has been a long time coming, but it is high time that they are 
ascribed the rights and protections afforded to other citizens of our 
Country.
  While this is a time marked by challenge for the entire Nation, it is 
my hope that this legislation be stalled no more and swiftly enacted 
into law.
  I urge my colleagues to support this very important piece of 
legislation.

                          ____________________