The Indian Gaming Association on Tuesday announced public memorial services for Chairman Ernest L. Stevens, Jr., who died September 26 at the Oneida Nation in Wisconsin.
According to a news release, Stevens dedicated more than two decades of his life to protecting and advancing tribal sovereignty through tribal government gaming. Under his leadership Indian gaming flourished, growing from $11 billion in revenues in 2000 to a record $43.9 billion in 2024, making tribal government gaming the largest segment of the U.S. gaming industry.
A citizen of the Oneida Nation of Wisconsin, Stevens’ work in Washington, D.C., made IGA one of the most effective voices on Capitol Hill. Stevens fiercely defended the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act and worked closely with tribal leaders, Congress, and federal agencies to ensure tribal governments had the resources to pay for schools, build hospitals, preserve culture, and create jobs for their communities.
“Chairman Stevens’ passing leaves a void that will be felt across all of Indian Country,” IGA Executive Director Jason Giles said. “He was not only our Chairman, but a mentor, a friend, and a warrior for tribal sovereignty. His legacy will continue to guide our work for generations to come.”
The Stevens family and the Oneida Nation welcome all friends, colleagues, and members of Indian Country to join in honoring the life and legacy of Stevens.
October 3 (all times CDT)
4 p.m. – Public services at Turtle School
7 p.m. – Evening Speakers Program
Location: Oneida Elementary School, N7125 Seminary Road, Oneida.
October 4 – 10 a.m. CDT
Procession of Services –Begins at the Longhouse, W370 Reformatory Rd, Oneida.
Burial Services – Caravan to Sacred Ground Burial Grounds, West Adam Drive, Oneida.
Funeral Services, Oneida Civic Center, 2913 Artley Street, Oneida.
