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Chairman of the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians
Indian Gaming Association Honors Chairman Pigsley at 29th Annual National Indian Women’s Luncheon

Earlier this year, Delores Pigsley, Chairman of the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians, was honored at the 29th Annual National Indian Women’s “Supporting Each Other” luncheon during the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) Executive Council Winter Summit in Washington, D.C.

Each year, the luncheon recognizes tribal members who have demonstrated strong leadership and a steadfast commitment to defend and protect the sovereignty of Indian nations. It’s no surprise that the NCAI saw those attributes in Chairman Pigsley.

For decades, Chairman Pigsley has dedicated her life to serving and protecting Indian rights while uplifting the Siletz way of life and supporting communities across the nation.

Since her election to the council in 1975, she has been instrumental in the Tribe’s right to reclaim federal recognition. In 1977, Chairman Pigsley led the lobbying of Congress to repeal the Western Oregon Termination Act of 1954. The effort – known as “Restoration” – resulted in the Siletz Tribe becoming the second formerly Terminated Tribe to regain federal recognition as a Tribe.

Indian Gaming Association (IGA) Vice-Chairman David Bean and Chairman Stevens presented floral tributes to honor Chairman Pigsley during the ceremony.

“I always look forward to this annual recognition,” said Chairman Stevens. “It provides a profound opportunity to honor and celebrate the extraordinary contributions of our honorees, the true champions of Indian Country, who steadfastly defend our tribal sovereignty and protect our people. For over two decades, the IGA has proudly participated in this remarkable luncheon, recognizing the leadership of many exceptional Native women. It feels like a natural fit for me, having grown up in this industry and had the privilege of working alongside these inspiring women.” (Indian Gaming)

In addition to Chairman Pigsley, the IGA also honored Tracy Stanhoff, former Chairman of the Prairie Band of Potawatomi Nation, and Paula Hart, former Director of the Indian Affairs Office of Indian Gaming and an enrolled citizen of the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe in New York.

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The Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians is a confederation of all the Tribes of western Oregon. In the 1800s Siletz ancestors were removed from their homelands and moved to the Siletz Reservation on the coast. Its Tribal headquarters is located in Siletz, Oregon and the Tribe has operated government offices in Salem, Portland, Eugene, Lincoln City and Siletz for over 40 years.


AN INVESTMENT IN SALEM'S FUTURE

HELP BRING THE SILETZ CASINO PROJECT TO SALEM

From the locals who will work at the property, to the local businesses who benefit from having more visitors in town, an endeavor like this is an investment in Salem's future. This project is a unique opportunity to add thousands of living wage jobs, spur economic growth, bring world-class entertainment, uplift Tribal communities and capitalize on significant infrastructure modernizations.

In addition, the project includes a unique revenue-sharing proposal. The Siletz Tribe plans to share a percentage of the net revenue with eligible participating Oregon tribes, many of whom are located in rural areas. The State of Oregon and local governments like the City of Salem will also receive a percentage of the net revenue, which will be reinvested into community improvements and programs. Please, listen to our community and say yes to this investment in Salem’s future.