The Koi Nation’s Fight for Tribal Land and a Casino
For decades, the Koi Nation, a small, landless tribe in Northern California, has been working tirelessly to secure land, open a casino, and tap into the lucrative gaming market enjoyed by many other tribes. Their dream seemed impossible until a federal court ruling in 2019 cleared the path for them to find a financial partner to purchase land and place it into a trust for a casino.
With only 96 members, the Koi Nation has now partnered with the Chickasaw Nation of Oklahoma, a major player in the gaming industry, to move forward with their plans for a $600 million casino and resort in Sonoma County. The tribe is awaiting a decision from U.S. Department of Interior Secretary Deb Haaland to put the 68-acre parcel into trust, allowing them to proceed with their ambitious project.
The Koi Nation’s journey highlights the challenges faced by many Indigenous tribes seeking economic opportunities through gaming. As the U.S. government works to address historical injustices and restore tribal lands, the Koi Nation finds itself facing opposition from other tribes, including California Governor Gavin Newsom.
If approved, the Koi Nation’s casino and resort would be a significant economic boon for the tribe, providing much-needed resources for its members and creating educational opportunities for future generations. Despite the hurdles they face, the Koi Nation remains determined to pursue their vision and establish themselves in the competitive gaming market.
As they await a decision from Secretary Haaland, the Koi Nation’s story serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggles and resilience of Indigenous communities in their quest for self-determination and economic prosperity.
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