Ernie Stevens Jr, longtime leader of Indian Gaming Association, passes away at 66

Ernie Stevens Jr, one of the most prominent figures in tribal gaming and the longtime chairman of the Indian Gaming Association (IGA), passed away on Friday at the age of 66. His death was confirmed by IGA conference chair Victor Rocha on X.

Stevens had been reelected in April to his 13th consecutive term as IGA chairman, a position he first assumed in 2000. Over the course of his leadership, tribal gaming revenues in the United States expanded dramatically, rising from $11 billion in 2000 to a record $43.9 billion in 2024. This growth established tribal gaming as the largest segment of the U.S. gaming industry, a transformation closely associated with Stevens’ strategic vision and advocacy.

The Indian Gaming Association, in a statement announcing his passing, described Stevens as a leader who “never wavered from the mission of advancing tribal government gaming and strengthening tribal sovereignty.”

Jason Giles, IGA’s executive director, said: “Our IGA Board and staff are stunned and saddened by Chairman Stevens' passing. Out of respect for his wife Cheryl, his lovely family, and the Oneida Nation, we will issue a full tribute at the appropriate time. Please send your prayers to the Stevens family.”

Stevens was widely recognized as a unifying force in Indian Country, balancing his defense of sovereignty with pragmatism in Washington. “If you start throwing haymakers, that’s how you get knocked out,” he said earlier this year during an IGA webinar. “But you gotta throw something.”

Born into the Oneida Nation of Wisconsin, Stevens served as a councilman for his tribe before taking on the national role. His advocacy drew inspiration from his father, Ernest Stevens Sr, a Korean War veteran and noted Native rights activist.

Upon his father’s passing last year, Stevens said: “My father, Ernie Stevens Sr, embodied more than just a paternal figure to me. He stood as a hero, a guiding light and a symbol of resilience for many individuals. His profound wisdom provided solace and direction, while his deeds ignited motivation among those in his circles.”

Throughout his career, Stevens became known for his commanding presence and his ability to bring together tribal nations, federal officials, and industry leaders. He was a frequent voice in national debates on tribal sovereignty and economic development, speaking at forums from Capitol Hill to international conferences. 

Tributes poured in from across Indian Country following news of his death. Deb Haaland, former U.S. Secretary of the Interior and current New Mexico gubernatorial candidate, reflected on his decades of support: “I can’t remember a time when Ernie Stevens wasn’t there for us. He was always kind and supportive, welcoming and ready to help. He was tremendously optimistic about the abilities of Indigenous people and displayed sharp, decisive leadership.”

The National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) hailed him as “a towering advocate for Tribal sovereignty and a peerless champion of Tribal gaming,” noting his role in expanding tribal economies and funding essential services like healthcare, housing, education, and cultural preservation. 

The commercial gambling industry also paid tribute to Stevens, with Bill Miller, President & CEO of the American Gaming Association, stating: "Today, the American gaming industry mourns the loss of one of its most transformative and respected leaders, Chairman Ernie Stevens, Jr.

"Beyond his professional impact, I personally cherished Ernie's friendship. His warmth, generosity, and unwavering support meant a great deal to me, and I will miss him dearly. His legacy will continue to inspire us as we work to honor the values he championed so well."

Stevens’ leadership helped guide the industry through record growth while ensuring gaming revenues supported schools, healthcare systems, and infrastructure across Native communities. His colleagues emphasized that his influence extended beyond economics, pointing to his efforts to mentor younger leaders and build unity among tribes.

He is survived by his wife, Cheryl, their five children, and 20 grandchildren. The Indian Gaming Association said it would honor Stevens’ memory by continuing his lifelong mission of defending tribal sovereignty and strengthening Native nations.