NC Commission of Indian Affairs Statement on Passing of Former Lumbee Tribe Chairman Jimmy Goins PDF Print E-mail
State Government
By Administrator   
Wednesday, 10 June 2015 05:39

RALEIGH, (SGRToday.com) - Upon learning of the death of former Lumbee Tribe Chairman Jimmy Goins, the state's Commission on Indian Affairs issued the following statement.

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Mr. Jimmy Goins was an icon among the Lumbee Indians of Robeson County, where he served as Chairman of the Tribe from 2004 to 2010. During his tenure, the Lumbee Tribe experienced major growth in terms of Indian housing development, the creation of the Tribe’s Boys and Girls Club, the creation of new community centers, and a new multi-million dollar tribal administration building – the Turtle. Prior to his success in program development, Mr. Goins was very instrumental in the formation of the Tribe’s government. His work with the historic Lumbee Self Determination Commission, between 1998 and 2000, resulted in the creation of the Tribal Constitution.  Furthermore, he was a veteran who made major sacrifices for his country. He served two tours of duty in Vietnam where he earned two Purple Hearts.

“We are saddened to hear about the death of former Chairman Jimmy Goins, a veteran, farmer, businessman and fallen warrior,” said Ruth Revels, Chair of the NC Commission of Indian Affairs.

Mr. Goins supported federal recognition for the Lumbee Tribe and presented historic testimony before both the US House and US Senate Indian Affairs Committees in 2006. During that testimony, he spoke of the many injustices that the Lumbee people have had to endure for generations as a result of not being fully recognized by the US Government. He spoke of the need for federal recognition and how recognition would bring much needed resources to the Lumbee community. He led a large delegation of tribal elders, tribal council members and others who traveled in bus-loads to Washington, DC as a show of support for federal recognition.  

“Chairman Goins was a people person, who was always willing to listen and help where he could,” said Greg Richardson, Executive Director of the NC Commission of Indian Affairs. “He had vision and compassion for his people and his country.”

 
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