There is no story that is better known about the interaction between the Europeans who came to this country and became Americans and the Indian tribes than the story of the Jamestown settlers, Pocahontas and the Powhatan Nation.

I believe it is important that as a component of our national defense strategy, we support and protect President Obama's request of a $4.5 billion increase in next year's international affairs budget.

There are circumstances when military action becomes unavoidable and justified; however, it would be unwise for us to ignore the roll of diplomacy.

I would like to commend the President for his Fiscal Year 2010 defense spending proposal.

It is important to ensure that the funds are spent in support of our troops and in an efficient manner to preserve our national security.

I have always been a staunch advocate for a strong national defense.

I am one that generally believes in deferring to the judgment of Members on matters affecting their district.

These factors in and of themselves don't necessarily mean tribal recognition is not warranted for the Lumbee or the six Virginia tribes.

I hope the Committee carefully considers whether it would be more appropriate to defer to this process.

It is a matter of fundamental fairness to ensure recognition is not given in an arbitrary manner.

It should not be held against these tribes that they made peace with our people before there was an American government.

The second reason is a more sinister reason.

I am here today because recognition of these Tribes by the Federal Government is long overdue.

I commend the committee for giving its time and attention to the Thomasina E. Jordan Indian Tribes of Virginia Federal Recognition Act.

The State of North Carolina has already by state law recognized the Lumbee Indians under that tribal name. Giving official recognition to the Lumbee Indians means a great deal to the 4,000 Indians involved.

The practice was supported when the eugenics movement...was endorsed by Virginia universities.

We think that as a matter of equity and good conscience it is time for the Lumbee Tribe to be recognized.

I appreciate it.