Indianz.Com > News > Statement: Seneca Nation mourns passing of Ernie Stevens, Jr.
Seneca Nation Statement on Passing of Indian Gaming Association Chairman Ernie Stevens, Jr.
Saturday, September 27, 2025
Indianz.Com
The following is the text of a September 27, 2025, statement from President J. Conrad Seneca of the Seneca Nation.

CATTARAUGUS TERRITORY, IRVING, N.Y. – Seneca Nation President J. Conrad Seneca issued the following statement on the sudden passing of Ernie Stevens, Jr., Chairman of the Indian Gaming Association:

“The Seneca Nation is shocked and saddened by the sudden passing of Ernie Stevens, Jr. As the longtime Chairman of the Indian Gaming Association, Ernie helped elevate the profile and impact of the industry for the benefit of Native Nations and our people. His leadership, vision and advocacy on behalf of the industry and Nations from across the United States, and his passionate defense of sovereignty and our collective pursuit of economic opportunity and gain for our people, helped shape the economy of Indian Country over the last quarter century.

Ernie was a warrior, a leader and a friend. His impact on the gaming industry and the many Native Nations who have strengthened their economies through gaming enterprises is beyond measure. On behalf of the Seneca Nation and all Seneca people, I extend our condolences and sorrow to Ernie’s family, as well as his Oneida Nation community. He will be missed.”
Search
Filed Under
Tags
More Headlines
Native America Calling: Native professionals inspire change and excellence in their communities
Grist: Miccosukee Tribe hits roadblock in protecting homelands
South Dakota Searchlight: Rosebud Sioux president delivers tribal address
Native America Calling: What America’s bold actions in Venezuela could mean for the country’s Indigenous peoples
Native America Calling: A new tax law change means hundreds of millions of dollars more per year for tribes
Indian Country swept up in anti-immigration agenda
Native America Calling: String of new affordable housing options offer hope for struggling urban Native Americans
NAFOA: 5 Things You Need to Know This Week (January 12, 2026)
Chuck Hoskin: Cherokee Nation develops world-class system of wellness
Native America Calling: Native Americans caught up in federal crackdown in Minneapolis
Native America Calling: Where do Native Americans fit in with America’s Semiquincentennial celebration?
Native America Calling: New post office rule is among potential hurdles for Native voters
Native America Calling: Remembering Ben Nighthorse Campbell and Harvey Pratt
President Trump vetoes tribal homelands bill with swipe at trust relationship
Native America Calling: The Pleiades star cluster ushers in winter story season
More Headlines