North Carolina governor highlights Native contributions at unity conference

Josh Stein spoke at the United Tribes of North Carolina’s Annual Unity Conference on March 6 in Raleigh, reaffirming the state’s commitment to Native American communities, according to NC Newsline. The event marked the first time the conference has been held since the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina received federal recognition in December 2025.

“American Indians in North Carolina have helped shape our state and nation since before its founding,” Stein was quoted as saying. “As we reflect on America’s 250th anniversary, we reaffirm our commitment to supporting the 130,000 American Indians who call North Carolina home.” Tribal leaders and community members representing North Carolina’s eight state-recognized tribes and four Urban American Indian Organizations attended the conference, including the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. N.C. Department of Administration Secretary Gabriel Esparza said American Indian people are a critical part of the state’s history, economy and communities.