ABOUT US

Preserving Heritage.

Promoting Unity.

Since 1982, the United Tribes of North Carolina has served as a unifying voice for the state’s American Indian people — representing eight state-recognized tribes and four urban Indian centers.

Founded in 1982, the United Tribes of North Carolina (UTNC) was created to strengthen collaboration among the state’s tribal governments and Indian organizations. What began as a vision for unity has grown into a statewide network dedicated to education, advocacy, and cultural preservation.

Today, UTNC serves as a central forum where leaders from across North Carolina come together to address issues, share resources, and celebrate the ongoing contributions of American Indian people.

Our Mission

The mission of the United Tribes of North Carolina is to promote educational, economic, religious, charitable, and cultural advancement for American Indian people.
Through collaboration and mutual respect, UTNC works to:

Increase awareness of American Indian issues
Foster partnerships among tribes, organizations, and state agencies
Celebrate traditional and contemporary culture
Support opportunities that benefit North Carolina’s Native communities

Our Representation

UTNC represents a diverse group of tribal nations and organizations, each contributing to the rich heritage of our state.
Together, they form a council of collaboration and shared purpose.

List of State-Recognized Tribes:

Coharie Tribe
Haliwa-Saponi Tribe
Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina
Meherrin Indian Tribe
Occaneechi Band of the Saponi Nation
Sappony Tribe
Waccamaw Siouan Tribe
Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians* (federally recognized; often collaborates in statewide initiatives)

Urban Indian Centers:

Cumberland County Association for Indian People
Guilford Native American Association
Metrolina Native American Association
Triangle Native American Society

Leadership

UTNC is governed by a 13-member Board of Directors, representing the eight state-recognized tribes, four urban Indian centers, and Legal Aid of North Carolina.
Each board member plays a vital role in advancing unity and addressing the needs of American Indian communities across the state.

Our Work

Strengthening Communities Through Service

From the American Indian Unity Conference to educational programs, youth initiatives, and scholarships, UTNC provides opportunities for growth, learning, and cultural celebration.
Every program and partnership is designed to uplift North Carolina’s Native voices and ensure that heritage, language, and community remain strong for generations to come.

“We are stronger when we honor

our past, celebrate our present,

and build our future together.”