09/27/2025
I never got a chance to meet the man, but my Oneida friends and family held the highest respect for him. He was one of the those guys who would help you out no matter who you were or where you came from. Definitely a man who is well respected across Indian Country and will never be forgotten. My thoughts and prayers to his family, friends & everyone grieving at this time. 🙏🏼
Indian Country mourns a true warrior. 💔
Ernie Stevens Jr. (Oneida Nation), longtime Chairman of the Indian Gaming Association, has walked on at 66 years old.
His passing was confirmed Friday evening in a post shared by his family on Facebook, asking for privacy as they navigate this profound loss.
For over two decades, Ernie stood at the frontlines of tribal sovereignty — defending the rights of Indigenous nations, building economic power through Indian gaming, and creating pathways for future generations to thrive.
He was a fighter in every sense: from his early days as a boxer to his lifelong role as a protector of our people’s strength and self-determination. His leadership transformed Indian Country — reminding us that sovereignty remains the foundation of our future generations. 🪶
We send our deepest condolences to his family, the Oneida Nation, and all his relations. 🤍🕊️
Rest in power, Chairman. ✊
(via Brandon Yellowbird-Stevens / Facebook)