The Indian Gaming Association (IGA) participated in the 2026 Tribal Leaders Summit hosted by the University of Arizona’s Native American Advancement & Tribal Engagement program, where IGA Chairman David Z. Bean delivered keynote remarks emphasizing education as a critical tool for advancing tribal self-determination and preparing the next generation of leaders to protect and strengthen tribal sovereignty.
Addressing tribal leaders, elected officials, regulators, educators, students, and community advocates from across Arizona and Indian Country, Bean also highlighted the IGA’s ongoing advocacy efforts in Washington, D.C., where tribal leaders continue to push for policies that safeguard tribal government gaming and uphold the regulatory framework established under the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA).
The summit brought together representatives from Arizona’s 22 federally recognized tribes, alongside stakeholders from across Indian Country, to discuss issues including leadership, education, economic development, tribal sovereignty, and the future of Indigenous communities.
A key topic raised during Bean’s address was the growing concern surrounding federally regulated prediction markets and the role of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC). Bean outlined collaborative efforts involving the Indian Gaming Association, the National Congress of American Indians, Tribal Nations, and industry partners to educate policymakers and defend tribal governmental interests.
He reiterated that the IGA’s work in Washington remains focused on protecting tribal government gaming and preserving the integrity of the IGRA framework.
“This issue extends beyond gaming,” Bean said. “It is about defending the authority of Tribal Nations to govern their own affairs and ensuring that federal agencies respect the frameworks that Congress and Tribal Nations have worked together to establish. When one tribe’s sovereignty is challenged, all Tribal Nations should take notice.”
Education was another central theme of Bean’s remarks, as he linked it directly to self-determination and the development of future tribal leadership. He stressed that Tribal Nations must continue cultivating leaders capable of protecting and strengthening sovereignty across policy, regulatory, and community settings.
Bean also paid tribute to the late Chairman Ernie Stevens Jr., crediting his leadership with transforming the Indian Gaming Association into one of the nation’s most influential tribal advocacy organizations.
The Indian Gaming Association said it remains committed to working alongside Tribal Nations, Congress, federal agencies, and partner organizations to protect tribal sovereignty, support economic self-determination, and ensure future generations benefit from the opportunities created through tribal government gaming.
The organization added that these issues, including tribal sovereignty, federal policy, and emerging challenges to tribal governmental authority, will remain a focus at its Summer Legislative Summit in Washington, D.C., scheduled for July 14.