Washington, D.C. (September 30, 2025) –The Indian Gaming Association (IGA) today announced the public memorial services for their beloved Chairman, Ernest L. Stevens, Jr., who passed away suddenly on Friday, September 26, 2025, at the Oneida Nation in Wisconsin.
Chairman 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 proud citizen of the Oneida Nation of Wisconsin, Chairman Stevens was widely respected as a national leader, bridge-builder, and advocate for Indian Country. His tireless work in Washington, D.C., elevated the IGA into 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 fund 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,” said Jason Giles, Executive Director of IGA. “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.”
Public Memorial Arrangements
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 Chairman Stevens.
Friday, October 3, 2025, CDT
4:00 PM – Public Services at Turtle School (Open to all)
7:00 PM – Evening Speakers Program for Chairman Stevens
Location: Oneida Elementary School, N7125 Seminary Road, Oneida, WI 54155
Saturday, October 4, 2025 – 10:00 AM CDT
Procession of Services –begins at the Longhouse, W370 Reformatory Rd, Oneida, WI 54155
Burial Services – Caravan to Sacred Ground Burial Grounds, West Adam Drive, Oneida, WI 54155
Funeral Services, Oneida Civic Center, 2913 Artley Street, Oneida, WI 54155
Members of the public are invited to attend these events to honor Chairman Stevens’ memory, celebrate his extraordinary contributions to tribal sovereignty, and offer prayers and support to the Stevens family and the Oneida Nation.