Are prejudice and envy involved in the continuous assault on the Chumash and their casino in Santa Ynez? Probably. Are there legitimate issues between residents of the Santa Ynez Valley and the casino? Absolutely. The Chumash have contributed millions of dollars to various charities and organizations in Santa Barbara County. How many other donors give that kind of money to local charities? Is either side 100 percent right? Not really. Both are right and wrong. Some important considerations come to mind about this unhappy situation: From their perspective, the Chumash are tired of being abused. Government has treated Indians like second-class citizens for generations, while they have been robbed, cheated and ignored by an indifferent public. After finally achieving significant financial success, the Chumash perceive themselves continuing to be on the receiving end of disdain, now heightened by envy. Doesn’t everyone want a business as profitable as the casino?Get the Story:
Harris Sherline: Opposition to Chumash, Casino Continues to Divide Community (Noozhawk 7/27)
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