DOWAGIAC, MI – On September 21, 2024, the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi celebrated the 30th anniversary of the reaffirmation of its sovereignty. After decades of fighting to restore their federal recognition, the band was reaffirmed by an act of Congress, signed into law by President Bill Clinton on September 21, 1994.
Federal recognition, which means the U.S. government recognizes the sovereignty of a tribal nation and confirms the government-to-government relationship between the two nations, acknowledges the right of a tribe to govern itself as it had before European settlement. As a sovereign Indian nation, the Pokagon Band exercises jurisdiction over its citizens and tribal lands, maintains an independent tribal court and police department, and regulates its natural resources.
“Sovereignty Day symbolizes our enduring resilience, cultural heritage, and the recognition of our rights as a sovereign nation,” said Tribal Council Chairman Matthew Wesaw. “This day serves as a reminder of the struggles and triumphs of our ancestors and the ongoing commitment to preserving our traditions and autonomy for future generations. We are honored to celebrate this milestone with our community and reaffirm our commitment to our sovereignty and cultural heritage. September 21 is a testament to our strength and unity as a people.”
The Pokagon Band of Potawatomi’s sovereignty was reaffirmed under legislation signed into law by President Clinton in September of 1994. The Pokagon Band provides community development initiatives such as housing, education, family services, medical care and cultural preservation for its more than 6,000 citizens. The band’s 10-county service area includes four counties in southwestern Michigan and six in northern Indiana. Its main administrative offices are in Dowagiac, MI, with a satellite office in South Bend, IN. In 2007, it opened Four Winds Casino Resort in New Buffalo, MI, followed by Four Winds Hartford in 2011, Four Winds Dowagiac in 2013 and Four Winds South Bend in January 2018. The Pokagon Band operates a variety of non-gaming businesses through its investment enterprises including Mno-Bmadsen (non-gaming investment firm) and the Pokagon Development Authority.