National Council on Problem Gambling unites tribal gaming execs to form advisory council
Organization’s new Tribal Advisory Council will shine a light on Native American communities and their relationships with the gambling industry
The National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) has announced the formation of its Tribal Advisory Council (TAC), consisting of executives from tribal gaming organizations across the US.
The TAC will look to raise awareness for Native American cultures in relation to gambling, as well as supporting the NCPG’s culturally specific work.
Much of its work will center around addressing matters of responsible and problem gambling that hold importance to native communities.
The new council will initially consist of eight members, including Four Winds Casinos EVP Raquel Buari, Mohegan president and CEO Ray Pineault, Wondr Nation CEO Anika Howard, and Oklahoma Indian Gaming Association chairman Matthew Morgan.
James Siva, California Nations Indian Gaming Association chairman, and Maria Lopez, Pascua Yaqui Tribal Gaming Office executive director, are also among the members.
Jacob Coin, executive advisor to the San Manuel Tribal Council and San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, and Shannon Dictson, president of the Responsible Gaming Association of New Mexico, complete the TAC’s lineup.
Keith Whyte, NCPG executive director, said: “Our work with tribes is based on a deep respect for tribal sovereignty and our core values of neutrality, collaboration, respect, and credibility.
“We have a responsibility to listen and learn, as well as the opportunity to share our knowledge as we seek to reduce the social costs of gambling addiction and improve health and wellness in all communities.
“The relationships and partnerships we have forged over the years are the strong foundation for this exciting new project.”
The NCPG has also partnered with Native American-owned firm The Trilogy Group to help facilitate the work of the TAC.
Valerie Spicer, Trilogy Group founding partner and CEO, added: “We applaud the formation of the NCPG’s Tribal Advisory Council and look forward to supporting stronger connection with the Tribes.
“This work acknowledges the significance of tribal gaming in the gambling sector, the impacts of tribal gaming on communities, and ways we can support finding balance in helping people heal from gambling-related harm respectfully amid the complexity.”
Following the launch of the TAC, members of the new body will participate in two sessions at the National Conference on Gambling Addiction and Responsible Gambling, in San Diego, between July 17 and 19.