The Indian Gaming Association (IGA) recently concluded its annual Mid-Year Conference at the Tulalip Resort Casino. The event served as an essential platform for tribal leaders, industry experts, and advocates to converge and address the pressing issues affecting Indian gaming today.
In his opening remarks to the member tribes, IGA Chairman Ernie Stevens, Jr. reported a record gross gaming revenue of $41.9 billion for fiscal year 2023 by the National Indian Gaming Commission, underscoring the collective strength and economic significance of the tribal government gaming industry. “Our record-breaking revenue not only highlights the resilience of our tribal nations, but also showcases the economic contributions we make to our communities and the broader economy,” said Stevens. “As we continue to navigate the evolving landscape, it is crucial that we remain united and advocate for policies that protect our sovereignty and promote our economic growth.”
The conference membership meeting also featured insightful updates from Jason Giles, Executive Director of IGA, who delivered a comprehensive mid-year report outlining IGA’s achievements alongside future legislative objectives. Among the distinguished speakers were Kathryn Isom-Clause, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs for Policy and Economic Development, who provided updates on initiatives supporting tribal economic development, and Sharon Avery, Acting Chair of the National Indian Gaming Commission, who shared vital insights into current regulations and future challenges.
Other notable contributions came from Paula Harte, Director of the Office of Indian Gaming, who discussed ongoing reviews of tribal-state compacting. Melody McCoy of the Native American Rights Fund presented crucial updates regarding recent Supreme Court proceedings and their potential impacts on Indian gaming rights. Additionally, Joe Webster of Hobbs, Straus, Dean, and Walker, and Scott Crowell of Crowell Law Office Tribal Advocacy Group led a session on the implications of recent decisions in the West Flagler and Chevron cases on the Indian gaming landscape.
The membership meeting concluded with Theresa Sheldon, Tulalip Board of Directors, and Deborah Parker, CEO of the Native American Indian Boarding School Healing Coalition, providing an update on the National Native American Boarding School Healing Coalition and emphasizing efforts to address historical traumas and foster healing within Indigenous communities.
In a significant highlight of the conference, IGA honored two eminent leaders with the prestigious John Kieffer Sovereignty Award: Leonard Forsman, Chairman of the Suquamish Tribe, and Teri Gobin, Chairwoman of the Tulalip Tribes Board of Directors. Named in honor of the late John Kieffer of the Spokane tribe, the award recognizes individuals who embody IGA’s mission and commitment to Indian self-determination and tribal sovereignty.
Chairman Stevens honored the memory of the late John Kieffer, saying, “While many great advancements have been made in Indian Country, our work is far from finished. Numerous tribes still depend on our support. This is precisely why we need more individuals like John Kieffer. He exemplified tireless dedication, committing himself day and night to his people, his family, and the broader Indian Country. Today, we not only memorialize him but also celebrate the incredible legacy of his life.” Stevens continued, “John Kieffer was not just a mentor; he was a true role model for me.”
The workshop sessions also provided a rich learning experience, celebrating a decade of cannabis legalization in Washington and covering topics such as green energy, banking solutions, and the role of cannabis in health and wellness. The conference closed with a focus on safeguarding and preparing for the future of gaming, particularly in the age of artificial intelligence.
The success of the IGA Mid-Year Conference reinforces the vital role of tribal gaming in promoting economic growth, preserving cultural sovereignty, and uniting nations in the pursuit of mutual interests.
For more information about the Indian Gaming Association, visit www.indiangaming.org.