Good morning. The U.S. Senate voted Wednesday to grant full federal recognition for the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina, a moment 137 years in the making.
The chamber passed the National Defense Authorization Act, which included Lumbee recognition, following approval by the House last week. President Donald Trump is expected to sign the bill into law as soon as this week, making the Lumbee the 575th federally recognized tribe.
Lumbee people gathered in Pembroke, where the tribe has its headquarters, on Tuesday in anticipation of the Senate vote and reconvened there Wednesday. The celebration was about more than a title—it was the culmination of over a century of hard work that forced them to navigate power politics in Washington and defend their identity as Native Americans. Read more in today’s lead story.
Welcome to CityView Today. In today’s newsletter, Douglas Byrd High School teacher Peggy Weinhoeft-Renfro talks about her 2,500-mile fellowship journey across the Colorado River Basin, where she studied the intersections of climate change, renewable energy, and community resilience. Also, ABC for Teens is a 26-week social-emotional learning program that helps young people navigate everyday challenges—one letter at a time.
Thanks for reading,
Sarah Nagem
Editor for CityView
After Decades of Fighting, Congress Recognizes the Lumbee
President Trump is expected to sign the National Defense Authorization Act, which includes Lumbee recognition, into law soon.
More from CityView
Douglas Byrd Educator Shares Classroom Lessons From 2,500-Mile Climate Fellowship
Peggy Weinhoeft-Renfro reflects on exploring climate, energy, and systems thinking—and how these lessons shape student learning.
ABC For Teens Expands Social-Emotional Learning In Fayetteville
The 26-week program uses creative expression to help local youth build crucial skills.
Events
PRESCHOOL STORY TIME
- Where: Vass Area Library, 128 Seaboard St., Vass
- When: 10-11 a.m. today
- What: Join us for our weekly story time!
HOLIDAY LIGHTS IN THE GARDEN
- Where: Cape Fear Botanical Garden, 536 N. Eastern Blvd., Fayetteville
- When: 5-9 p.m. today
- What: Join us for a favorite holiday tradition featuring lights, decorations, Santa Claus, the Grinch, entertainment, s’mores, and more.
MUSIC BINGO AT JAMES CREEK CIDER HOUSE
- Where: James Creek Cider House, 172 U.S. Highway 1, Cameron
- When: 7 p.m. today
- What: Whether you’re a bingo champ or just in it for the vibes, music bingo at James Creek is always a hit.
Obituaries
John Haywood Carter
John Haywood Carter, 87, passed away on Friday, December 12.
Thomas Keith Slappe
Thomas “Tom” Keith Slappe, 80, passed away on Thursday, December 11.
Edward Lanier Williams
Edward Lanier Williams, 99, passed away on Friday, December 12.
Until tomorrow!
🚙 Cumberland County issued a reminder that parking enforcement is underway at the Cumberland County Courthouse. To avoid being towed, drivers should use paid options or free parking lots.
