Indianz.Com > News > Statement: Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community mourns passing of Ernie Stevens, Jr.
Statement: Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community mourns passing of Ernie Stevens, Jr.
Saturday, September 27, 2025
Indianz.Com
The following is the text of a September 27, 2025, statement from the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community.

“The Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community is deeply saddened by the passing of Ernie Stevens, Jr., the longtime Chairman of the Indian Gaming Association. Ernie was a tireless advocate for Tribal Nations, tribal sovereignty, and the ability of Tribes to improve their economies, their governments, and the lives of their people through lawful gaming enterprises. Ernie provided strong and highly effective leadership on a national stage in the halls of Congress and at large gatherings. He also connected with and supported tribal leaders and tribal governments at the most local level. Ernie traveled everywhere throughout Indian country and treated each person he met with respect and dignity. The SMSC forged a close relationship with Ernie over 30 years ago through the work of longtime SMSC Chairman Stanley Crooks, whose name appears on the conference room at the Indian Gaming Association in Washington, D.C. Current SMSC Chairman Cole Miller and previous SMSC Chairs Charlie Vig and Keith Anderson all worked very closely with Ernie, and each expresses his gratitude for Ernie’s work and friendship and share their condolences with his family, friends, and Tribe, the Oneida Nation of Wisconsin. The SMSC mourns the loss of Ernie Stevens, Jr. and celebrates his life, a life of humble and strong service to all Indian country.”
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