With all the difficult times and bad economic news that has been assaulting our senses over the past year, it’s very refreshing to focus on a success story for a change, and the miracle of Indian gaming is just that.
Just a little more than 20 short years ago, the 1988 California Supreme Court case California v. Cabazon Band of Indians, 480 U.S. 202 (1987) paved the way for tribal governments to tap into a new economic engine—casinos. Shortly after that court case was decided, the United States Congress passed the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA) of 1988, which established a jurisdictional framework that governs Indian gaming. The law established the National Indian Gaming Commission (NIGC) and required states to negotiate gaming compacts in “good faith” with tribes. While controversial and often litigated, IGRA turned the tables and changed destinies for the many people who call Indian country home.
The economic impact of Indian gaming is hard to estimate precisely, but it’s huge. The revenue generated by tribal gaming operations alone is more than $27 billion annually, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg. The demand Indian casinos have for goods and services create an enormous influx of capital into the system. As the ripple effect of this capital injection reverberates through state, federal and, yes, foreign economies, new and old businesses flourish. What started as a business venture on reservations throughout the United States has created capital, wealth and opportunity that impact us all. As a person with a background in economics, I see it as a beautiful thing.
There are a lot of key players in Indian country—heroes in my book. One of the key movers and shakers is the National Indian Gaming Association’s Ernie Stevens Jr., who is now rounding out his fourth term as chairman (he’s running for a fifth term as well so be sure to “Vote Stevens” this year at the NIGA show). Stevens, a man who I consider a dear friend and hold in the highest esteem has fought many long and hard battles for the rights of Indian country.
There are many other stars that shine in Indian country and Casino Enterprise Management has had the privilege to cover many of them in the pages of our magazine, including this month’s cover story on National Congress of American Indians President Joe Garcia. His journey into leadership for Indian country was unexpected and yet he met the challenge with the utmost passion and dedication for the betterment of his people. Garcia holds the highest elected position in Indian country and he has done many great things for Native Americans throughout the country during his term as president. You can read more about his accomplishments and his life story starting on page 34.
We have also had the honor to highlight the life and works of another true leader in Indian country, former Sen. Ben Nighthorse Campbell (R-Colo.). In our December 2008 issue, we featured Campbell’s unique and compelling story and received much positive feedback on the article from our readers. Campbell’s story is truly an inspiration to all—Indian and non-Indian alike—and his support of Indian gaming throughout his political career shines on even to this day. You will likely spot Campbell on the show floor and inside many of the awards ceremonies, and conference sessions at this year’s Indian Gaming Trade Show and Convention in Phoenix. Even though Campbell may have stepped out of the political limelight, his dedication to the advancement of Indian people is still his top priority.
There are many other notable leaders that grace the Indian gaming industry and many will be front and center in Phoenix next month. I would encourage you to keep your eyes open and if you have the chance, take the time to speak with some of them about their stories. With so much great talent and leadership flowing through the halls of the Phoenix Convention Center, it would be the perfect time to thank each and every one of them for their hard work and contributions to Indian gaming and Indian country. As I said before, Indian gaming is a tremendous success story in this day and age, and I believe it would do us all good to take some time to focus on the positive during these difficult economic times.
Peter E. Mead,
Publisher, Casino Enterprise Management
Comments
Post new comment