Ernie Stevens Jr., of the Oneida Nation of Wisconsin, was the Chairman of the Indian Gaming Association. Stevens passed away suddenly on September 26, 2025 (Photo Courtesy: Indian Gaming Association)
(WTAQ-WLUK) — Ernie Stevens Jr., the longtime Chairman of the Indian Gaming Association and Oneida Nation of Wisconsin citizen, has died at the age of 66.
The news was confirmed by his son Brandon Yellowbird-Stevens Friday evening, who thanked the community for its prayers and support.
Stevens was re-elected in April for his 13th term as chairman of the IGA. He also served as an elected councilman of the Oneida Nation in Wisconsin from 1993 to 1999.
Stevens was inducted into the American Gaming Association’s Gaming Hall of Fame in 2015.
In a statement, the Indian Gaming Association said it was heartbroken to announce the news of Stevens’ sudden passing.
In part, the association wrote: “Country. For more than two decades, as Chairman of IGA, he never wavered from the mission of advancing tribal government gaming and strengthening tribal sovereignty. Under his leadership, IGA became one of the most powerful and respected voices in Washington, D.C., tirelessly championing the rights of tribal nations and protecting the integrity of the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act.”
Jason Giles, the Executive Director of the IGA also reflected on the loss of Stevens, saying that they will issue a full tribute at the appropriate time.
“Ernie Stevens, Jr. was more than a chairman; he was a warrior, a statesman, and a champion for all of Indian Country,” Giles said.
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.
The National Congress of American Indians also commented on Stevens’ sudden passing.
NCAI President Mark Macarro said in part that they not only lost a warrior, but a national leader and a representation of what the NCAI aspires to be as leaders in the community.
He believed in unity, and he proved that when Indian Country speaks with one voice, we not only win, but we make lasting change.
The Oneida Nation posted its reaction to Stevens’ passing Saturday morning, announcing that they could be flying their flags at half-staff until funeral services are completed.
Oneida Nation Chairman Tehassi tasi Hill shared her condolences, and that Stevens’ legacy will live on.
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.
During Stevens’ tenure, Indian gaming revenues grew to a record-shattering $43.9 billion in 2024, up nearly $33 billion from 2000, and made the Tribal Government Gaming the largest segment of the U.S. gaming industry.
Stevens leaves behind his wife Cheryl, his children Brandon, Ernest III, Margaret, Maria and Lois, and his 20 grandchildren. He was 66 years old.
Comments