The delay has prevented the Coquille from delivering critical services to its citizens and to communities across southern Oregon, and presents a dangerous question for all of Indian Country — in the face of political lobbying, is the Biden administration willing to ignore its commitments to tribal sovereignty and put the status of all tribal treaties and agreements at risk?
Learn more about why the Biden Administration should affirm its commitment to tribal sovereignty, and why the Coquille are working to open a new gaming facility on their reservation.
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History
In 2012, the Coquille Indian Tribe requested the Department of the Interior place land into trust within the City of Medford in Jackson County, Oregon, pursuant to the Coquille Restoration Act. The Tribe also requested that the Department affirm that the land in Medford is eligible for gaming under the “Restored Lands Exception” of the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (“IGRA”).
Coquille’s Responsibility
As with many tribes, the Coquille’s story is one of seeking to overcome tremendous harm inflicted by centuries of removal and relocation. The 1954 Western Oregon Termination Act completely divested the Coquille Tribe of all lands, disrupted social and economic lifeways and forced many Coquille people to relocate.
Key Background and Statistics
233
The Cedars at Bear Creek is expected to create approximately 233 full time jobs filled by tribal members and community residents, with payroll and benefit costs estimated at $9.65 million per year.
$13.5 million
The Cedars will generate an estimated $13.51 million in additional payments to other workers, producing an estimated total of $23.16 million in direct and indirect wages and benefits.
$6.1 million
The Tribe has developed a strong track record of supporting local businesses in Jackson County. Spending on local products and services are estimated to exceed $6.1 million in the first year of operation.
$500,000
The Tribe has also developed a strong track record of supporting local organizations and nonprofits within Jackson County, donating over $500,000 to Jackson County organizations through the Coquille Tribe Community Trust Fund since 2004.