During a recent Raleigh City Council meeting, officials acknowledged the significance of the region's indigenous heritage, emphasizing the presence of a vibrant Native American community. The Triangle area is home to over 13,000 Native Americans from various tribes, making North Carolina the state with the largest Native American population on the East Coast.

The council honored the eight recognized tribal nations in the state, which include the Coharie, Cherokee, Halawa Saponi, Lumbee, Meherrin, Occaneechi, Saponi, and Waccamaw Siouan tribes, as well as four urban Indian organizations represented by the Triangle Native American Society. This recognition highlights the ongoing contributions of indigenous peoples to the local community.

A member of the Lumbee tribe presented a proclamation to the Raleigh City Council and the newly elected mayor, along with a book showcasing contemporary Native American art from a recent exhibition at the North Carolina Museum of Art. The meeting included a ceremonial honor song performed by Justin Richardson, a member of the Haliwa Saponi tribe, further celebrating the partnership between the city and its Native American residents.

The event concluded with a presentation of colors by the Raleigh City honor guard, underscoring the spirit of collaboration and respect for the indigenous community as Raleigh looks toward a shared future.