TUCSON, AZ – Indian Gaming Association (IGA) Chairman David Z. Bean delivered the keynote at the 2026 Tribal Leaders Summit, hosted by the University of Arizona Native American Advancement & Tribal Engagement program. The summit drew representatives from Arizona’s 22 federally recognized tribes, along with elected officials, regulators, educators, and students, for discussions on leadership, education, economic development, and tribal sovereignty.
Bean’s remarks focused on education as a tool for advancing tribal self-determination and preparing the next generation of leaders.
“Education has always been one of the most powerful tools available to Tribal Nations,” said Chairman Bean. “Whether we are educating our young people, our elected leaders, Congress, or federal regulators, knowledge is what empowers us to protect our sovereignty and shape our future. Every opportunity to tell the story of Indian Country is an opportunity to strengthen our nations.”
A significant portion of Bean’s remarks addressed federally regulated prediction markets and the role of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC). He outlined coordinated efforts among IGA, the National Congress of American Indians, tribal nations, and industry partners to engage policymakers, and tied the issue to the broader regulatory framework established under the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA).
“Tribal gaming is not simply an industry. It is an exercise of sovereignty,” said Bean. “For nearly four decades, tribal nations have built one of the most highly regulated and successful governmental gaming systems in the world. Any effort that seeks to bypass or undermine that framework is a challenge not only to tribal gaming, but to tribal sovereignty itself.”
Bean said protecting tribal sovereignty requires engagement from all tribal nations, whether or not they operate gaming facilities.
“This issue extends beyond gaming,” said Bean. “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.”
Bean also paid tribute to the late Chairman Ernie Stevens Jr., who led IGA for more than two decades.
“I have the privilege of continuing the work Chairman Stevens began,” said Bean. “His vision was always rooted in unity, education, and advocacy. He understood that our greatest strength comes when tribal nations speak with one voice.”
IGA will convene tribal leaders for its Summer Legislative Summit in Washington, D.C., on July 14, where discussions on tribal sovereignty, federal policy, and prediction markets are expected to continue.
“The future of Indian Country will be shaped by the leaders we develop today,” Bean concluded. “We must continue investing in education, building strong relationships, and ensuring that our voices are heard wherever decisions affecting tribal nations are being made. When we stand united, we remain a powerful force for our people and future generations.”
