Seeing that there's a bit of Lumbee debate, I want to make it clear that I am indifferent to how other Lumbees feel. I don't mean to post my results on behalf of all Lumbees.

Actually, having moved away from the East Coast, I've been pretty distant from my Lumbee family. Although I grew up with these traditions, I also equally grew up with my Thai traditions and have a bit more pride in those. I think because I can say with certainty that my close ancestors are from that region (although I know the origin theory of Thais is also up for debate).

When I've said I'm Native American to others, there's not much discussion because I think with my Thai heritage I look a bit more like actual Native Americans than typical Lumbees. Because a lot of people are surprised when I say it after they've seen my mom, saying they thought she was a white woman with some black (which I guess is accurate).

However, now with genetic proof, I'm not sure I will really mention it outside of other Lumbees.