Reaffirmation of Recognition:
Securing Our Rights and Future
When the North Carolina Commission of Indian Affairs (NCCIA) was formed, the Tuscarora were included among the tribes represented at the table. However, at that time, the presence of multiple Tuscarora factions and governing bodies made it difficult for the state to formally recognize and engage with a single, unified tribal authority. The same holds true in South Carolina, where the Tuscarora have always lived, worked, and partnered with other tribes, but not had a political presence.
Today, the Tuscarora Indians of the Kahtenuaka Territories provide that unified structure. Our government reflects the collective voice of our communities and restores a clear and consistent framework for representation.
State recognition is not simply a symbolic acknowledgment of our long-standing presence in North Carolina and South Carolina. It affirms government-to-government relationships and strengthens our ability to preserve our cultural heritage, expand educational access, and secure the resources necessary for the well-being of our citizens and future generations.
A Government Built by Our People
Leadership from every long-established Tuscarora community was invited to participate in building this unified structure. Rather than forming another temporary alliance, the focus was on creating a lasting government grounded in citizenship — one that enables enrolled members to participate directly and vote in shaping our Nation’s future.
Longhouses are sacred cultural centers and places of worship that play an essential role in preserving our traditions. At the same time, many Tuscarora people do not belong to a longhouse and also deserve representation. TIOKT was designed to include all Tuscarora citizens, honoring our spiritual institutions while establishing a civil government that represents the full breadth of our Nation. This is what “separation of longhouse and state” looks like.
Communities from Maxton, Prospect, and Saddletree initially participated and appointed representatives who contributed to the formation of TIOKT. While not all chose to continue in the process, the invitation to unity has always remained open.
Today, TIOKT represents thousands of Tuscarora people across the Carolinas. It reflects a broad and inclusive effort rooted in shared identity, collective responsibility, and the enduring strength of our Nation.
We invite you to explore the detailed timeline of our unification process and learn how every community was offered a voice in building this government.
How Can Recognition Impact Our Nation?
- Housing Assistance Program
- Low-Income Energy Assistance
- American Indian Workforce Program
- Economic Development and SUNS
- Indian Child Welfare Program
- Tribal Recognition Program
We are Grateful for the Support of Others
