On September 10, 2026, Lydia Locklear Canty, co-founder of Current Tribal Law & Policy, PLLC, attended the 2026 Sovereign Nations of Virginia Conference on behalf of the Firm at the Virginia Crossings Hotel and Conference Center. Hosted by the Rappahannock Tribe, the annual conference brings together tribal leaders, attorneys, scholars, policymakers, community members, and other partners to examine issues important to Virginia’s federally and State-recognized tribal nations.

Recent actions by Tribal Nations demonstrate that sovereignty does not require a particular position on data centers. Some tribes have prohibited or paused large-scale development. Others have demanded consultation concerning projects that could affect tribal resources. Still others have developed or owned digital infrastructure themselves.

Our team recently had the privilege of attending and presenting at the American Indian Unity Conference, hosted by the United Tribes of North Carolina.

When a government decision could impact a Tribal Nation, its people, lands, culture, treaty rights, or programs, the tribal consultation is the process meant to ensure Tribal leaders have a real seat at the table before decisions are made.

As founding partners of Current Tribal Law & Policy, PLLC and proud citizens of the Lumbee Tribe, we are honored to celebrate this achievement. This recognition marks a significant step forward for the Lumbee people and Indian Country as a whole.

The conversation around Lumbee full federal recognition has gained new momentum following the November 5, 2025 Senate Committee on Indian Affairs Hearing on S.107, the Lumbee Fairness Act. PBS NC’s State Lines Special tackles the issue head-on with an all-Lumbee panel including Amber Holland, founding partner of Current Tribal Law & Policy, PLLC.