If a new North Carolina state house bill passes, the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (EBCI) would be sharing a portion of its gaming revenues with various state-recognized groups and organizations including the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina.  The basic premise is ludicrous, but read on.

Everyone can identify and know what you are talking about with these statements. These examples are universal life experiences.

Why don’t we have a tribal radio station? AM and FM radio are ultimately portable. Access to this type of one-way communication can be had with a second-hand, two-dollar transistor radio from the thrift store (the two AA batteries needed to power a radio cost more than the radio itself).

Before and since I met my wife, I was a motorcycle enthusiast for fifty-some years. Back then, that is what you would have called me unless you saw me riding on the street with my colors, and then you would probably call me a biker.

I know the arguments and understand the desire to attract those ‘in the world’ to attend church with entertainment. But have we become so much like the world that it is hard to tell the difference? Have we lost our salt? Is our light like every other street light shining without brightness?

Over my years with the tribe, I have been a witness to a lot of chest-thumping over Indian sovereignty. From top tribal leadership to the lowest common denominator, we take pride in our perceived freedom.

The ever-present smile and positive attitude of Hugh Lambert is endearing to all who meet him.  He is quick with a joke and a funny story but also very focused on serving his people and community of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (EBCI). 

Some of the biggest problems we should give awareness and action to on the Qualla Boundary, especially as it pertains to MMIP, are domestic violence and sexual assault and human trafficking – particularly child sex trafficking.