Lumbees concerned about rule on eagle feathers

PEMBROKE, NC (AP) — Members of the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina are upset over a new federal rule making it illegal for tribe members to carry eagle feathers.

The Fayetteville Observer reports that a Justice Department rule that took effect last month only allows members of federally recognized tribes to have the feathers of birds protected by federal law.

Tribal attorney Ed Brooks says the policy is unconstitutional and attacks tribes that are not recognized by the federal government. He says the Justice Department cannot create a policy that singles out one tribal people over another.

The tribal council has passed a resolution saying the tribe should be allowed to have eagle feathers. The Lumbee Tribe is recognized by the state but does not have the full federal recognition.

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