David Z. Bean Highlights Tribal Unity and Success of Two Coppers Casino at Tlingit & Haida Assembly

The President of the Indian Gaming Association (IGA), David Z. Bean, led the 91st Tribal Assembly of the Central Council of the Tlingit & Haida Indian Tribes of Alaska on September 23 in Juneau, recognizing the opening of Two Coppers Casino and calling on tribal governments to strengthen their unity to preserve sovereignty in gambling regulation.

Focus on Sovereignty and Tribal Economic Development

Bean opened his remarks by congratulating President Richard J. Peterson, the Executive Council, and the entire community for the start of operations at Two Coppers Casino. He described the project as "a clear example of tribal sovereignty and economic self-determination," resulting from sustained management, strategic partnerships, and long-term planning. The IGA emphasized that the management of the casino is entirely up to the tribal government, reaffirming its public purpose.

“The casino reflects years of planning, perseverance, and careful leadership. It is a clear manifestation of tribal sovereignty and economic self-determination,” Bean stated during his keynote address.

Indian Gaming Association: Current Context and Regulatory Priorities

During the national update, Bean reported that gross tribal gaming revenues reached $46.2 billion in fiscal year 2025, representing an increase of $2.3 billion (5.3%) from the previous year. This figure solidifies the relevance of gaming operated by tribal governments as a driver of employment, creation of native businesses, and funding for essential services— including health, housing, education, and cultural programs— for the communities they serve.

The executive emphasized that the success of each tribal nation must be defined locally, addressing the priorities and unique characteristics of its citizens.

Two Coppers Casino as a Benchmark for Unity and Intergovernmental Consultation

Under the motto “Unbreakable Unity, Ancestral Strength,” the Assembly was highlighted by Bean as a living example of sovereignty and collective participation. He emphasized that true tribal unity requires respect for each nation’s authority as well as mutual commitment: no nation should have to defend its regulatory rights in isolation.

Bean reiterated the IGA’s position regarding the advance of parallel online markets, such as sweepstakes and prediction markets, identifying these products as potential threats to regulated tribal operations. He reaffirmed the Association's ongoing commitment to defending the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act, the jurisdiction of tribes, and their regulatory authority, always supporting government-to-government consultation.

“No tribal nation should have to defend its rights alone. The potential of the tribal sector is realized when we act together,” Bean remarked.

Future Challenges and Intergenerational Legacy

At the closing ceremony, David Z. Bean evoked the legacy of former IGA President, Ernest L. Stevens, Jr., personally committing to continue building on the work of tribal leaders and ancestors. He also offered the institutional support of the Indian Gaming Association to the Central Council of the Tlingit & Haida Indian Tribes of Alaska, underscoring the importance of robust management, sustained protection of Two Coppers Casino, and preparing future generations to lead the sector.

Bean's address not only celebrated a new milestone for tribal gaming operations in Alaska but also solidified a clear message of collective vigilance against emerging regulatory and competitive challenges in the market.

Indian Gaming Association: Insights and Cooperation in Tribal Gaming

The event positions Tlingit & Haida among the national benchmarks in managing gaming under tribal control, while the IGA commits to providing strategic support during the casino's growth phase and maintaining sector coordination in defense of regulatory sovereignty. The opening of Two Coppers Casino and the annual increase reported by the Association highlight the economic and social role of tribal gaming in the United States, opening new lines of cooperation and shared oversight between nations and state entities, such as regulation and industry news.