The Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act (ISDEAA) was passed on January 4, 1975, as Public Law 93-638, marking a significant policy shift to give Native American tribes greater control and autonomy over their own federally funded programs and services, moving away from federal administration. To accomplish this, Tribe’s need to develop their economies in a significant way that would be supportive of this substantial policy change.
Economic development and self-determination are key for Tribes, especially rural tribes like Shoalwater Bay! Rural Tribes often face economic hardships, including high rates of unemployment and poverty. Financial independence allows Tribes to make their own decisions without relying on outside funding, which comes with strings attached. When Tribes have strong economies, they can better support their communities, preserve their culture, have power in negotiations with governments, and ultimately control their own destiny.
Through exercising their sovereignty, the Shoalwater Bay Tribe successfully negotiated a compact with Washington State in the early 2000’s to open a casino on their reservation. Tribal member and Tribal Gaming employee, Cody Blair, says “Economic sovereignty is the lifeline and the end goal of all Tribes. Without it, we will slowly lose ourselves and become extinct.”
Today, the Shoalwater Bay Casino is the biggest employer in Pacific County. With the casino supporting drive in the reservation economy, the Tribe was able to move forward for many other opportunities such as the Museum and Library, the gas station, a cannabis shop and many educational programs! Study after study reaches the same conclusion: Tribes are often the largest drivers of regional and rural economies.
By Kristine Torset, Cultural Manager