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Racism alleged in dispute over Kialegee Tribal Town casino bid

Wednesday, July 18, 2012

Supporters of the Kialegee Tribal Town casino say opponents, including a city council member in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, are expressing racist and threatening views.

A pro-casino group called Citizens Protecting Native American Sovereignty says most of the racist comments are found on the Facebook page of Broken Arrow Citizens Against Neighborhood Gaming. But the group also says city councilor Jill Norman mocked the tribe and showed disrespect by "dancing" to a drum beat during a protest.

"This was unbecoming of a city leader and an insult to the Kialegee Tribal Leaders, including the (Town) King (Tiger Hobia), who was also present," the pro-casino group said in a statement, The Tulsa World reported.

The group wants Norman to resign but she has declined to comment on the controversy.

Get the Story:
Fans, foes of proposed Kialegee Tribal Town casino in Broken Arrow claim racism (The Tulsa World 7/18)
Controversy Over Broken Arrow Casino At City Council Meeting (News on 6 7/17