Ernest “Ernie” L. “Big Cat” Stevens Jr., a prominent figure in Indian Country, passed away on September 26, 2025, at the age of 66.

     He leaves behind a legacy of advocacy, leadership, and service that transformed the landscape of Indigenous sovereignty and tribal governance.

     A citizen of the Oneida Nation of Wisconsin, Stevens rose to national prominence as Chairman of the Indian Gaming Association (IGA), a position he held for more than 25 years.

     Throughout his tenure, he worked to defend and expand the rights of tribal governments through gaming, protecting sovereignty, strengthening economies, and advancing intertribal collaboration.

     “He connected with people, he unified people, that’s classic Ernie,” one speaker said during memorial services held at Oneida Nation Elementary School, where hundreds gathered to honor his life and contributions.

     His leadership of the IGA was marked by dedication to the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act of 1988 (IGRA) and the protection of tribal self-governance. When he took the role in 2000, tribal gaming revenues stood around $11 billion; by 2024, they had reached $43.9 billion.

     He was instrumental in building strong partnerships with Congress, the Department of the Interior, and the National Indian Gaming Commission, ensuring tribes maintained authority over their own enterprises. Through his guidance, the IGA became a model for how Native nations could define success on their own terms.

     In recognition of his lifelong commitment to strengthening Indian Country, the Ho-Chunk Nation released a statement honoring Stevens’ impact and expressing deep gratitude for his service:

     “On behalf of the Ho-Chunk Nation, we offer our deepest condolences. Mr. Ernie Stevens Jr. has left a lifelong imprint on the progress of Indian Country. Guided by the strong legacy of leadership from his father figures and the wisdom of the matriarchs of his family, he embodied a spirit of service that uplifted all Native Nations.

     The selfless time and tireless work he devoted to strengthening Indian Country cannot be overstated. His unwavering advocacy for Native peoples and the sovereign rights of our Nations is immeasurable, and even in his passing, his influence endures.

     The Ho-Chunk Nation extends our deepest gratitude for Ernie’s lifetime of dedication, and we offer our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and all who had the honor of working alongside him. We join together in embracing and celebrating the immense contributions he shared with the world.”

     Beyond his professional roles, Stevens was a veteran, husband, father, and mentor. He served on numerous boards, including the Nike N7 Foundation, Center for Native American Youth, and the Boys & Girls Clubs of America Native Advisory Board, always advocating for Indigenous youth and future generations.

     He also held positions with the National Congress of American Indians and served as a councilman for the Oneida Nation from 1993 to 1999. Colleagues remembered him for his humor, humility, and unwavering belief in the power of tribal unity.

(Photo Courtesy: Indian Gaming Association)