Ernest L. “Ernie” Stevens Jr., a pivotal determine in tribal gaming and sovereignty advocacy, died unexpectedly on Friday, September 26, at the age of 66. A citizen of the Oneida Nation of Wisconsin, Stevens served greater than twenty years as chairman of the Indian Gaming Association (IGA), shaping the trade into a robust financial and political power.
Ernie Stevens Jr.’s Passing Marks the End of an Era
His household confirmed the information in an announcement, writing: “It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our Dad and Papa, Ernie Stevens Jr. We ask for privacy at this time as our family navigates this profound loss.” The Indian Gaming Association echoed the sentiment, describing Stevens as “a warrior, a statesman, and a champion for all of Indian Country.”
Jason Giles, the IGA’s government director, famous that the board and workers have been “stunned and saddened” by the loss. “Ernie Stevens, Jr. was more than a chairman; he was a warrior, a statesman, and a champion for all of Indian Country,” Giles stated. “His vision and commitment built bridges across tribal nations, Congress, and federal agencies, ensuring that tribal gaming remained a cornerstone of tribal self-determination and economic growth.”
Stevens assumed the position of IGA chairman in 2000 and was reelected for his thirteenth time period in April 2025. During his management, tribal authorities gaming income rose dramatically, rising from $11 billion in 2000 to $43.9 billion in 2024. This development made tribal gaming the biggest phase of the U.S. gaming trade.
The IGA emphasised that his work safeguarded the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act, strengthened tribal sovereignty, and ensured gaming revenues funded important companies reminiscent of training, healthcare, infrastructure, and housing throughout Indian Country. The National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) praised him for unifying tribal nations and “proving that when Indian Country speaks with one voice, we not only win, but we make lasting change.”
The Seneca Nation added that Stevens’ “leadership, vision, and advocacy on behalf of the industry and nations from across the United States” helped rework tribal economies.
Beyond Gaming: Youth, (*66*), and Community
Stevens’ dedication prolonged far past coverage and income. He was actively concerned in youth growth initiatives and sat on boards together with the Nike N7 Foundation, the Center for Native American Youth, and the Boys & Girls Club of America’s Native American Advisory Board. United National Indian Tribal Youth described him as somebody who “understood that the strength of our Nations rests in the hands of our young people.”
His early years have been marked by achievements in athletics. In 1975, he co-founded the Soaring Eagle Boxing Club in Oneida with Louie Askinette, later turning into a four-time state heavyweight champion and twice profitable the National Heavyweight Championship. His accomplishments in sports activities earned him induction into the National Indian Athletic Association Hall of Fame in 2008 and the Boys & Girls Club Alumni Hall of Fame in 2012. In 2015, he was honored with induction into the American Gaming Association’s Gaming Hall of Fame.
Education additionally remained central to his journey. Stevens earned an affiliate diploma from Haskell Indian Junior College, a bachelor’s in felony justice from Mount Senario College, and a grasp’s in administration from the University of Phoenix. Haskell continues to have a good time his identify with the annual Ernie Stevens, Jr. Classic basketball match.
Colleagues and leaders throughout Indian Country described Stevens as a power of unity, resilience, and inspiration. Washington State House Speaker Pro Tem Chris Stearns remembered him as “a lion of a man” whose religion in folks was exceptional. Oneida Nation Chairman Tehassi tasi Hill stated Stevens’ contributions to sovereignty and youth packages made him “an amazing man” whose legacy will endure.
As reported by Tribal Business News, Mark Powless, chairman of the Oneida Gaming Commission, captured Stevens’ journey by noting: “From the boxing ring to the boardroom, in his career, he has demonstrated strength, vision, and resilience that uplift tribal communities nationwide.”
Stevens is survived by his spouse of greater than 45 years, Cheryl, their youngsters Brandon, Ernest III, Margaret, Maria, and Louis, and 20 grandchildren. To many, his best legacy lies not solely in reshaping the gaming panorama but additionally in the household and neighborhood he cherished.
