Oneida Nation mourns Ernie Stevens Jr., former councilman and gaming chief

ONEIDA NATION (NBC 26) — The Oneida Nation introduced the passing of Ernie “Steve” Stevens Jr., a former Oneida Nation councilman and chairman of the Indian Gaming Association, who died immediately on Sept. 26. Stevens was widely known for his contributions to Indian gaming and his dedication to sovereignty safety, youth programming, and household help all through Indian nation.

Jamie Arviso

Chairman honors Stevens’ legacy

Oneida Nation Chairman Tehassi tasi Hill praised Stevens’ affect on the neighborhood and past.

“Ernie was an amazing man. While he is widely known for his work in Indian Gaming; our community and many others across Turtle Island know him for his unwavering support of his family, youth programming and the pursuit of sovereignty protection. Trail-blazing leaders such as Ernie pave the way for uncontested legacies and the Nation will be forever grateful for his unselfish contributions,” Hill mentioned.

Gaming trade remodeled below Stevens’ management

Jason Giles, government director of the Indian Gaming Association, described Stevens as greater than only a chairman.

“Ernie Stevens, Jr. was more than a chairman; he was a warrior, a statesman, and a champion for all of Indian Country,” Giles mentioned. “His vision and commitment built bridges across tribal nations, Congress, and federal agencies, ensuring that tribal gaming remained a cornerstone of tribal self-determination and economic growth. His legacy will be unmatched, and his voice will echo for generations to come.”

According to the Indian Gaming Association, throughout Stevens’ greater than two-decade tenure as chairman, Indian gaming revenues grew from $11 billion in 2000 to a record-breaking $43.9 billion in 2024, making tribal authorities gaming the biggest section of the U.S. gaming trade.

The affiliation said this extraordinary achievement displays Stevens’ strategic imaginative and prescient and steadfast advocacy, working with tribal leaders nationwide to make sure gaming revenues continued to fund faculties, healthcare, infrastructure and financial growth throughout Indian nation.

Family requests privateness

While communities throughout Indian nation share in mourning Stevens’ passing, the Stevens household is asking for privateness as they navigate this profound loss, in keeping with the Oneida Nation.

The nation supplied prayers for Stevens’ spirit, stating “With a good mind, a good heart and a strong fire, we offer our prayers for his spirit to rest in eternal peace.”

Stevens is survived by his spouse Cheryl, youngsters Brandon, Ernest III, Margaret, Maria and Lois, and 20 grandchildren.

The Oneida Nation’s flags will fly at half-staff till funeral companies for Stevens are accomplished.