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Ernie Stevens Jr., visionary leader of tribal gaming, dies at home in Green Bay

A warrior for tribal sovereignty and a bridge-builder in gaming, his decades of leadership redefined an industry. Colleagues and family share the story of a man who changed everything.

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1 min read
The image shows a group of Native American Indians in a canoe on a river, surrounded by trees and a...
The image shows a group of Native American Indians in a canoe on a river, surrounded by trees and a cloudy sky. The image is in black and white and there is text at the bottom. The people in the canoe appear to be in a state of distress, likely due to the death of the Indian Chief, as indicated by the text which reads "Hilawatha's Departure".

Ernie Stevens Jr., visionary leader of tribal gaming, dies at home in Green Bay

Ernie Stevens, Jr., a prominent figure in tribal gaming, passed away on Friday in Green Bay. Known as the face of Indian gaming, he led the industry with determination and diplomacy for decades. His work left a lasting mark on tribal communities and the broader gaming world. Stevens served as Chairman of the Indian Gaming Association (IGA), where he became a key advocate for tribal gaming rights. Early in his career, commercial casino interests dismissed tribal gaming's potential, but he fought relentlessly to prove them wrong. His leadership set a high standard, balancing statesmanship with fierce advocacy when needed.

In a recent webinar hosted by the IGA, his sons, Earnest Stevens III and Brandon Yellowbird Stevens, shared memories of their father. They were joined by Mark Macarro, president of the National Congress of American Indians, Jason Giles, IGA's executive director, and Victor Rocha, IGA's conference chairman. Participants highlighted Stevens' role as both a warrior for tribal rights and a diplomat who built bridges across industries. Colleagues remembered him as a friend to many and an ambassador for tribal gaming. His ability to challenge Congress and commercial interests while maintaining respect made him a unique and influential leader.

Stevens' legacy includes decades of advocacy that reshaped tribal gaming in the US. His leadership ensured tribal communities had a strong voice in an industry that once overlooked them. His impact will continue to guide future generations in the field.

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