The National Indian Gaming Commission, a pivotal institution founded in 1988 by the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA), is crucial in promoting tribal economic development and self-sufficiency. Its mission is to strengthen tribal governments and ensure that tribes are the main beneficiaries of gaming activities.
After three-plus decades, what has been the influence of American Indian gaming on the economy and nearby tribal communities, and how did they get here?
The Link Between Native Americans and Gambling
Native American tribes, akin to states, hold sovereignty as mandated by legislation. This status empowers them to govern their territories. Indigenous tribes have the legal right to establish and operate casinos, even in states where such activities are officially prohibited. Beyond casinos, Native American tribes are authorized to operate sportsbooks and other forms of gambling on their reservations, irrespective of state regulations. This sovereignty is a result of a long and complex history, marked by the displacement of Native Americans from their fertile regions by early American settlers, leading to their confinement in impoverished areas.
Native Americans are considered to be subjugated nations. Upon the arrival of the early American Puritan settlers, they displaced Native Americans from their fertile regions and forced them to inhabit the most impoverished areas.
The move to the most impoverished territories resulted in limited availability of fertile grounds for agricultural purposes. Consequently, agriculture became unfeasible. The Native Americans effectively lost their whole cultural heritage and, in addition, their territories to the incoming newcomers.
The government established reservations in an attempt to mitigate additional land loss, but this action was implemented belatedly, as the harm had already been inflicted. Furthermore, numerous commitments were made to them regarding their well-being, most of which were not honored.
Native American tribes, in the face of challenging living conditions, demonstrated remarkable resilience and called for the right to operate casinos on their land. The Federal Indian Gaming Regulation Act (IGRA) of 1988 granted them this designation, acknowledging their status as autonomous entities, similar to how Vatican City is a separate entity within Italy but possesses sovereignty.
The Supreme Court ruling was a meaningful advancement for Native Americans. Several tribes initiated the establishment of tribal casinos, even in states where casinos are prohibited by law. The profits generated from this enterprise are not just for personal gain but are allocated towards the welfare and support of the indigenous communities, a testament to the positive impact of Native American gaming.
Looking back 35 years after the IGRA of 88, this legislation has not only paved the way for Indian tribes to engage in gaming activities but also fostered tribal economic growth, self-reliance, and robust tribal governance. A key component of this regulatory framework is the National Indian Gaming Commission (NIGC), which oversees the federal regulation of class II gaming on Indian Lands. Currently, the NIGC supervises over 500 tribal gaming enterprises, representing 244 tribes across 29 states.
An Everlasting Economic Workforce
Tribal Gaming is not just about casinos. It’s about creating local, long-lasting employment opportunities and prestigious professions, often serving as the primary employer in both the community and neighboring areas. We’ve seen tribes leverage gaming proceeds to diversify their economic activities, establishing local retail, entertainment, and dining opportunities. This economic diversification keeps money circulating within tribal communities, stimulating job growth and fostering the development of more tribal entrepreneurs.
The direct influence of tribal gaming has also significantly impacted tourism. Certain tribes have constructed family-oriented vacation destinations in conjunction with their gaming enterprises. In contrast, others have utilized gaming profits to establish tribal tourism opportunities that enlighten visitors about our Indigenous identity and support local artists, jewelry makers, basket weavers, and other artisans specializing in cultural crafts. In general, gambling has expanded the scope and is a significant component of thriving tourism in native communities.
Myriad Challenges
Despite the seemingly perfect picture painted, tribal casinos will continue to encounter numerous obstacles, including the difficulty of recruiting sufficient staff, the competition from newly permitted non tribal casinos driven by tax revenue-seeking municipal and state governments, and the rapid growth of the online betting business such as BetMGM casino.
However, considering the significant budget of numerous Indian services, it is highly likely that they will take all necessary measures to prevent regression. In October 2023, two tribes from Oklahoma and one tribe from California declared a collaboration with a gambling company based in New York to introduce a sports betting application.
Native Gaming Breaks Revenue Records
Gaming revenue for fiscal year 2022 has reached its peak, setting a new record in the history of gaming in Native Tribes. Out of NIGC’s eight areas, seven had a rise compared to FY 2021. The total gross gaming revenue (GGR) for FY 2022 increased by $1.9 billion, representing a growth of almost 5% compared to the previous fiscal year’s GGR of $39 billion.
While we’re yet to receive the revenue figures for the fiscal year of 2023, but it’s evident that Tribal Gaming doesn’t plan on slowing down anytime soon.
Ecosystem Preservation
Tribal programs funded by gaming revenues have facilitated the revival of Indigenous foods through food sovereignty initiatives, thereby reintroducing nutritious foods crucial in preventing diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
To strengthen the bond with the land and fulfill the duty to take care of it, gaming profits have been utilized to rehabilitate ecosystems by reintroducing native species of plants, animals, and aquatic life. Several species, including bison, salmon, alligators, and raptors, formerly endangered and on the brink of extinction, are now making a successful comeback and flourishing in their original habitats and native regions.
Protecting Native American Generations of the Future
To summarize the effects of Tribal gaming, the conclusion is evident – the gaming earnings have not only ensured the continuation of traditions from the last seven generations but also enabled tribes to carefully strategize for the future seven generations, showcasing their long-term vision and unwavering dedication to their cultural legacy.
The increase in gaming earnings has enhanced numerous individuals’ living standards, granting them access to high-quality healthcare, clean water, sustainable energy sources, possibilities for further education, and essential social and welfare initiatives to alleviate financial difficulties within their communities.
In conclusion, Native American Tribes should take great pride in their diligent efforts to ensure that their gaming operations align with the objectives set by Congress in 1988 through the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA). They should also anticipate witnessing the ongoing success and beneficial effects of Indian Gaming in the years to come.
