Indianz.Com > News > Statement: NAFSA mourns passing of Ernie Stevens, Jr.
Remembering Indian Gaming Association Chairman Ernie Stevens, Jr. (1959-2025), One of Indian Country’s Most Dedicated Champions for Tribal Sovereignty
Monday, September 29, 2025
Indianz.Com

The following is the text of a September 29, 2025, statement from the Native American Financial Services Association (NAFSA).

With great sadness, NAFSA today reflects on the life of Indian Gaming Association Chairman Ernie Stevens, Jr., who history will remember as a relentless giant and a tireless champion for all of Indian Country.

In addition to his unparalleled record of leadership, we will remember Ernie for his true warrior energy, his kindness, his humor, his trust, his friendship, and his love. We will remember his unwavering support and how he constantly put others first. We will remember—and I hope we will seek to emulate—how he always showed up and was willing to put himself out there, despite the risk and cost.

Ernie never faltered in his dedication to fighting for those who walked before us and his work to advance, defend, and educate others everywhere about Tribal sovereignty and Indigeneity. He never forgot those who struggled for us and always made sure we remembered and honored them. It is now all of our solemn responsibilities to carry his work forward. In all that we do, we must always remember and honor him through our own efforts.

We thank the Creator for him and send our love and prayers to his family. Thank you for sharing him with us.

More information on Chairman Stevens’ incredible life and legacy is available in his obituary.
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