The North Carolina Commission of Indian Affairs was created in 1971 by the North Carolina General Assembly in response to the requests of concerned Indian citizens from across the state. The Commission was established pursuant to North Carolina General Statutes 143B-404 through 143B-411.

Specifically, the commission was created to:

• Deal fairly and effectively with Indian affairs
• Bring local, state and federal resources into focus for the implementation or continuation of meaningful programs for the state's Indian citizens
• Provide aid and protection for Indians as needs are demonstrated
• Assist Indian communities in social and economic developments
• Promote recognition of and the right of Indians to pursue their cultural and religious traditions