Reflections from the Second Annual Judicial Summit for the Tribal Nations of Virginia

As a Lumbee attorney, attending the Second Annual Judicial Summit for the Tribal Nations of Virginia along with my Current Tribal Law partner, Lydia Locklear Canty, was both professionally enriching and personally meaningful. Hosted by the Upper Mattaponi Tribe in partnership with Virginia Commonwealth University's On Native Ground initiative, the summit brought together tribal leaders, judges, scholars, attorneys, and advocates to discuss the continued growth of tribal justice systems and the exercise of inherent tribal sovereignty.

The day began with a panel featuring Chief Frank Adams (Upper Mattaponi Tribe), Chief Stephen R. Adkins (Chickahominy Tribe), Chief Ann Richardson (Rappahannock Tribe), and Chief Kevin Brown (Pamunkey Tribe). Listening to these leaders reflect on the progress of Virginia's Tribal Nations was a powerful reminder that sovereignty is not static. It is strengthened through thoughtful leadership, institution building, and a commitment to future generations.

One of the highlights of the summit was hearing from Professor David Wilkins, a fellow Lumbee citizen and one of Indian Country's most respected scholars. As someone who practices exclusively in Federal Indian Law, I appreciated his presentation on "Indigenous Concepts of Justice.”

The Upper Mattaponi High Court panel was another meaningful moment. Hearing from Chief Justice Melissa Holds The Enemy, Associate Justice Jack Trope, and Associate Justice Brian Cameron highlighted the intentional work required to establish and strengthen tribal judicial institutions. Effective tribal courts reinforce sovereignty, uphold tribal law, and build confidence in tribal governance.

Professor Richard Monette of the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa. His presentation, "Indigeneity and the Scales of Justice," explored the relationship between tribal constitutions and the judicial branch. His remarks reinforced that constitutions are more than governance documents; they embody a Nation's values while defining the framework through which sovereignty is exercised.

The summit concluded with Chief Judge Heather Mitchell of the Kiowa Tribal Court, whose presentation on "Tribal Courts: The Why, The How and the Endless Possibilities" offered practical insights into building sustainable tribal justice systems. Her perspective demonstrated that every Tribal Nation's judiciary will look different because each Nation's history, culture, and priorities are unique. That flexibility is one of the great strengths of tribal self-governance.

Throughout the day, attendees were reminded that tribal justice systems are rooted not only in legal authority but also in the cultural values, histories, and responsibilities that have guided Tribal Nations for generations. I found myself reflecting on why I chose to dedicate my legal career to Federal Indian Law. Tribal courts are an expression of a Nation's inherent sovereignty and its right to determine its own future. Every conversation reinforced the importance of investing in tribal institutions that are both legally sound and culturally grounded.

At Current Tribal Law & Policy, PLLC, these discussions resonate deeply with the work we do every day. Whether assisting with governance, constitutional development, policy, or other issues affecting Tribal Nations, our goal is to help tribes build institutions that will serve their citizens for generations to come.

Thank you to the Upper Mattaponi Tribe, Virginia Commonwealth University, the presenters, and everyone who helped make this year's Judicial Summit such a meaningful experience. It was an honor to learn alongside so many dedicated tribal leaders and practitioners, and I look forward to continuing these conversations as we work together to strengthen tribal sovereignty and tribal justice across Indian Country.