Leaders of the Jamul Indian Village of California, from left to right: Vice-Chairman Kenny Meza, Executive Council Member Carlene A. Chamberlain, Executive Council Member Michael Hunter, Chairwoman Erica Pinto, Executive Council Member Christopher Pinto, Secretary and Treasurer Lisa Cumper. Photo by JIV

The Jamul Indian Village of California elected a woman for the first time in its history.

Erica Pinto joined the council back in 1994 at the young age of 22. She eventually rose to the position of vice chair and will now be taking the reins of the tribe.

“I am honored to serve the Tribal Members of the Jamul Indian Village,” Pinto said in a press release. “I, along with the Executive Council, will continue to build a strong tribal government, create jobs for our tribal members and the community and engage with our neighbors on issues of mutual significance."

Serving with Pinto will be Vice Chair Kenny Meza. The press release said he was instrumental in gaining federal recognition for the tribe in 1981.

Carlene A. Chamberlain, Christopher Pinto and Michael Hunter were also elected to the council as executive members. Lisa Cumper was appointed to the position of Secretary and Treasurer.

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