MARKSVILLE, LA – Last week, President Donald J. Trump held a historic summit with the Chairman of the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana Marshall Pierite, weeks after the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe announced they would be formally nominating President Trump for the honor of the Nobel Peace Prize.
An article advocating for greater economic cooperation between America’s Indian tribes and the U.S. government by Chairman Pierite reportedly caught the attention of President Trump earlier this year, prompting the summit. During their meeting, President Trump and Chairman Pierite discussed the unique position of Indian sovereignty and authority over tribal lands, and how to capitalize on the opportunity for the mutual benefit of the tribes and the American people.
“I believe we can foster a new spirit of cooperation that will see the expansion of energy production plants, data centers, housing, and technology through partnership between the federal government and Indian Country,” Chairman Pierite said, adding that the cooperation between the Trump administration and various Indian tribes would be “a major catalyst for job creation and prosperity for both Native Americans and all Americans.”
“As someone who spent a lifetime in the construction industry, I recognize the serious obstacles that over-regulation poses in building any new facility or business in America,” President Trump said to Chairman Pierite.
“Tribal sovereignty poses a great opportunity to bypass these unreasonable hurdles and create a major economic boom in the public/private partnerships between our Native American tribes and our business community.”
During the meeting, President Trump reiterated his support for “self-determination and the sovereignty of the country’s Native American tribes” and hailed what Chairman Pierite called a “post-gaming economic development for Indian country.”
Because of President Trump’s forward-thinking leadership and the support of visionaries like Chairman Pierite, Native Americans will have opportunities to build lasting prosperity for their families and communities. Chairman Pierite sees this partnership as a coalition-building exercise to bring prosperity to all Native Americans – something he’s referred to as “taking our seat at the table.” Despite hardships Indian Country has faced historically, Chairman Pierite believes Native Americans are ready to prosper along with the rest of the United States.
The President also expressed gratitude to the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe for their recent announcement that, based on their status as a sovereign nation, the tribe would recommend President Trump to the Nobel Peace Prize committee. “President Donald Trump will be remembered as one of the most influential world leaders in history, recognized for his unwavering commitment to global leadership and peace,” Chairman Pierite said. “By brokering the Abraham Accords, facilitating economic normalization between Serbia and Kosovo, negotiating the peace treaty between the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda, and mediating ceasefires between India and Pakistan and between Israel and Iran, no world leader has dedicated more time and effort to promoting global peace than President Donald Trump.”
Chairman Pierite is encouraging other Native American leaders and communities to join and support the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe as they do the foundational work that will lift up the entirety of America’s Indian Country.
The Tunica-Biloxi Tribe has already made strides in pursuing economic development opportunities on their own. Through its business ventures, the tribe is committed to fostering partnerships and developing economic prosperity on behalf of its tribal citizens. Current investments include manufacturing and textiles, public infrastructure projects and AI and technology developments.
Pierite convened a roundtable discussion last month that featured several Trump administration officials to help lay the groundwork for this developing alliance. Diane Cullo, assistant administrator for the Office of Native American Affairs at the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), spoke at the summit, addressing dozens of tribal leaders who will form the core of this groundbreaking coalition.
“I believe President Trump’s vision during this administration emphasizes strong economic growth, deregulation, and the revitalization of communities that have long been forgotten. That vision resonates with many of us because tribal communities have known what it feels like to be overlooked. We are no longer asking for a seat at the table—we are taking our place at the table,” Chairman Pierite said.
The inter-governmental event, which featured 30 tribal leaders and U. S. Government officials, is part of the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe’s strategy to forge meaningful partnerships between Indian Country and the federal governme
On Friday, June 20, 2025, the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana convened a roundtable event, “Preserving, Protecting, and Strengthening Tribal Sovereignty,” on their reservation in Marksville, Louisiana. This landmark gathering brought together over thirty tribal leaders and federal officials to foster new relationships, spur economic development and reinforce tribal sovereignty across Indian Country.
Special Assistant to the President and Deputy Director of the White House Office of Intergovernmental Affairs, Christine Serrano Glassner, and Senior Advisor for the Immediate Office of the Secretary for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Mark Cruz, represented the U.S. Government. Both highlighted the importance of federal-tribal collaboration in advancing shared priorities.
Diane Cullo, Assistant Administrator for the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Office of Native American Affairs, delivered the keynote address, emphasizing the administration’s commitment to supporting Native American small businesses and addressing concerns about the SBA’s Tribal 8(a) program. Speaker of the House Mike Johnson and Deputy Assistant Secretary for Policy and Economic Development for the Office of Indian Affairs Ken Bellmard delivered video messages in support of the gathering.
Chairman Marshall Pierite of the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe outlined his vision for a coalition between tribal nations and the federal government, underscoring the need to seize new opportunities for growth and self-determination. Under his leadership, Tunica-Biloxi Industries is spearheading initiatives such as a textile manufacturing enterprise to provide high-quality products for commercial and government sectors and public works projects across the country – part of a broader effort to bring manufacturing jobs back to the United States and tribal reservations.
“This event symbolizes our resolve to transform obstacles into opportunities,” said Chairman Pierite. “Through collaboration and determination, we aim to shift the balance of power, ensure tribal communities are no longer overlooked, and secure our rightful place at the table of progress.”
The event, held at the tribal-owned Paragon Casino Resort, began with a guided tour of the Tunica-Biloxi Cultural and Educational Resources Center and Museum, showcasing the tribe’s rich heritage and ongoing efforts in cultural preservation. The day’s program commenced with a cocktail hour and a Government-to-Government Meet & Greet, setting the stage for candid discussions.
A key highlight of the event was the participation of President Donald Trump’s longest-serving political advisor, Roger Stone, who reaffirmed the administration’s dedication to tribal sovereignty and its eagerness to collaborate on economic development projects. Tribal leaders in attendance included Principal Chief Lora Ann Chaisson of the United Houma Nation, Chairman John Lowery of the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina and Governor Thomas Moquino Jr. of Santo Domingo Pueblo, among others.
The roundtable marked the first of a series, with Chairman Pierite announcing plans for a follow-up event set for late July in Washington, D.C., which is expected to include House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) and Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD).
Through its business ventures, including Tunica-Biloxi Industries, the tribe is committed to fostering economic development opportunities in order to provide for its tribal citizens. Current investments include projects in the textile and manufacturing industries, public infrastructure projects, agricultural investments and more. The Tunica-Biloxi Tribe extends its gratitude to all attendees and partners who contributed to the success of this event.
The Tunica-Biloxi people first appeared in the Mississippi Valley. In the late 1700s, they settled near south of Marksville in east-central Louisiana. Today, the Tribe has more than 1,600 members throughout the United States, primarily in Louisiana, Texas, and Illinois. The modern Tunica-Biloxi Tribe is composed of Tunica, Biloxi (a Siouan-speaking people from the Gulf coast), Ofo (also a Siouan people), Avoyel (a Natchezan people), and Choctaw. Although ancestry is typically intermixed through marriages, tribal members typically identify either as Tunica, Biloxi or Biloxi-Choctaw. The tribe owns and operates the Paragon Casino Resort, the largest employer in Central Louisiana. For more information about the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana, visit https://www.tunicabiloxi.org/ and “like” us on Facebook.
DRAFT FOR REVIEW
Tunica-Biloxi Tribe Hosts Government-to-Government Summit to Advance Economic Development and Tribal Sovereignty
The inter-governmental event, which featured 30 tribal leaders and U. S. Government officials, is part of the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe’s strategy to forge meaningful partnerships between Indian Country and the federal government.
On Friday, June 20, 2025, the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana convened a roundtable event, “Preserving, Protecting, and Strengthening Tribal Sovereignty,” on their reservation in Marksville, Louisiana. This landmark gathering brought together over thirty tribal leaders and federal officials to foster new relationships, spur economic development and reinforce tribal sovereignty across Indian Country.
Special Assistant to the President and Deputy Director of the White House Office of Intergovernmental Affairs, Christine Serrano Glassner, and Senior Advisor for the Immediate Office of the Secretary for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Mark Cruz, represented the U.S. Government. Both highlighted the importance of federal-tribal collaboration in advancing shared priorities.
Diane Cullo, Assistant Administrator for the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Office of Native American Affairs, delivered the keynote address, emphasizing the administration’s commitment to supporting Native American small businesses and addressing concerns about the SBA’s Tribal 8(a) program. Speaker of the House Mike Johnson and Deputy Assistant Secretary for Policy and Economic Development for the Office of Indian Affairs Ken Bellmard delivered video messages in support of the gathering.
Chairman Marshall Pierite of the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe outlined his vision for a coalition between tribal nations and the federal government, underscoring the need to seize new opportunities for growth and self-determination. Under his leadership, Tunica-Biloxi Industries is spearheading initiatives such as a textile manufacturing enterprise to provide high-quality products for commercial and government sectors and public works projects across the country – part of a broader effort to bring manufacturing jobs back to the United States and tribal reservations.
“This event symbolizes our resolve to transform obstacles into opportunities,” said Chairman Pierite. “Through collaboration and determination, we aim to shift the balance of power, ensure tribal communities are no longer overlooked, and secure our rightful place at the table of progress.”
The event, held at the tribal-owned Paragon Casino Resort, began with a guided tour of the Tunica-Biloxi Cultural and Educational Resources Center and Museum, showcasing the tribe’s rich heritage and ongoing efforts in cultural preservation. The day’s program commenced with a cocktail hour and a Government-to-Government Meet & Greet, setting the stage for candid discussions.
A key highlight of the event was the participation of President Donald Trump’s longest-serving political advisor, Roger Stone, who reaffirmed the administration’s dedication to tribal sovereignty and its eagerness to collaborate on economic development projects. Tribal leaders in attendance included Principal Chief Lora Ann Chaisson of the United Houma Nation, Chairman John Lowery of the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina and Governor Thomas Moquino Jr. of Santo Domingo Pueblo, among others.
The roundtable marked the first of a series, with Chairman Pierite announcing plans for a follow-up event set for late July in Washington, D.C., which is expected to include House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) and Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD).
Through its business ventures, including Tunica-Biloxi Industries, the tribe is committed to fostering economic development opportunities in order to provide for its tribal citizens. Current investments include projects in the textile and manufacturing industries, public infrastructure projects, agricultural investments and more. The Tunica-Biloxi Tribe extends its gratitude to all attendees and partners who contributed to the success of this event.
The Tunica-Biloxi people first appeared in the Mississippi Valley. In the late 1700s, they settled near south of Marksville in east-central Louisiana. Today, the Tribe has more than 1,600 members throughout the United States, primarily in Louisiana, Texas, and Illinois. The modern Tunica-Biloxi Tribe is composed of Tunica, Biloxi (a Siouan-speaking people from the Gulf coast), Ofo (also a Siouan people), Avoyel (a Natchezan people), and Choctaw. Although ancestry is typically intermixed through marriages, tribal members typically identify either as Tunica, Biloxi or Biloxi-Choctaw. The tribe owns and operates the Paragon Casino Resort, the largest employer in Central Louisiana. For more information about the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana, visit https://www.tunicabiloxi.org/ and “like” us on Facebook.
The Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana intends to nominate U.S. President Donald J. Trump for the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize, using its sovereign status to qualify under the Norwegian Nobel Committee’s criteria – citing his role in advancing global peace among international hostilities and economic uncertainty – exemplifying the ideals that the Nobel Peace Prize seeks to recognize: the pursuit of peace, the prevention of war and the advancement of international harmony.
“President Donald Trump will be remembered as one of the most influential world leaders in history, recognized for his unwavering commitment to global leadership and peace,” said Marshall Pierite, Chairman of the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana. “By brokering the Abraham Accords, facilitating economic normalization between Serbia and Kosovo, negotiating the peace treaty between the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda, and mediating ceasefires between India and Pakistan and between Israel and Iran, no world leader has dedicated more time and effort to promoting global peace than President Donald Trump.”
Since 2018, President Donald Trump has received 10 nominations for the Nobel Peace Prize – five of which were submitted in 2025 alone. As part of its submission, the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana intends to cite the president’s role in calming rising tensions around the globe, specifically in the Middle East through the Abraham Accords and an Israel-Iran ceasefire. The president’s endeavors to secure peace and stability globally are precisely what builds strength, security and the peace of mind for all Americans at home in the United States and citizens around the globe.
Chairman Pierite and President Trump’s administration have made significant strides in exploring opportunities to bring back the millions of jobs lost over the last 30 years in the U.S. by expanding economic strongholds, including business ventures into advanced manufacturing and textile production, technology and AI, agriculture cultivation and more. This effort opens the door for Native Americans and other sovereign nations to utilize new and existing economic opportunities through public-private partnerships, benefitting not only their citizens, but all of Rural America and the U.S. economy.
The Tunica-Biloxi Indian Tribe, located in Marksville, Louisiana, is a federally recognized tribe primarily composed of Tunica and Biloxi peoples, with enrolled members also descended from the Ofo, Avoyel and Choctaw nations with more than 1,500 members nationwide. The tribe received federal recognition in 1981, and is governed by a written constitution, with leadership provided by an elected tribal council and chairman. Chairman Pierite encourages Native Americans and sovereign nations to join the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe in support of this nomination. For more information on the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana, visit https://www.tunicabiloxi.org/.
The Avoyelles Arts & Music Festival (AAMF), Louisiana’s biggest July 4th celebration, returns for its 13th year on Friday, July 4, 2025, at the Paragon Casino Resort in Marksville. Presented by the Avoyelles Arts Council, this immersive indoor and outdoor event promises an unforgettable day of music, arts, family fun and patriotism.
The festival brings over 3,000 visitors to Marksville every year, bringing a surge of tourism and economic benefits to Avoyelles Parish. After a successful 2024 festival hosted at Paragon, organizers have chosen to continue the momentum and return for a second year in a row – offering the traditional outdoor excitement with the benefit of cool, air-conditioned fun indoors as well.
“The Avoyelles Arts & Music Festival is a true reflection of what makes this region special: community, culture and connection,” said Marshall Pierite, Chairman of the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana which owns and operates Paragon. “It’s an opportunity for families to come together, celebrate our shared traditions and showcase the vibrant spirit of Avoyelles Parish.”
Attendees can look forward to a dazzling lineup of activities, including:
AAMF Independence Day 5K will kick off the day at 7:30 a.m. inviting runners and walkers to dress patriotic and celebrate the Fourth of July in an active, healthy way. Registration begins in front of Paragon’s RV Lodge at 6:30 a.m.
Louisiana’s Oldest Fourth of July Parade, kicking off at 10 a.m. along Tunica Drive/Hwy 1, featuring floats, marching bands and two Grand Marshals: Swamp Pop legend Tommy McLain and rising country star John Foster.
The AAMF Car, Motorcycle & Jeep Show, showcasing over 18 awards with proceeds benefiting local veterans.
Live Entertainment on the outdoor stage with a lineup including Get Cha Mind Right Brass Band, Threat Level Midnight, Sundown and Mood Swing. In Paragon’s Mari Showroom, get ready to dance and sing along with Semi-Charmed, Travis Matte & The Kingpins, Ryan Foret & Foret Tradition, Chris Ardoin & Nustep Zydeco, and the “King of Swing” himself, Tucka, will headline.
Expanded Kids Zone, offering rides, games, and a Ferris wheel for endless family fun including an indoor play area to beat the heat!
Friendly Competitions including a cornhole tournament, dance off and cherry pie, watermelon and boudin eating contests.
“There’s something for everyone at this year’s festival,” said Marshall Ray Sampson, Sr., General Manager of Paragon Casino Resort. “Hosting this event for the second year in a row speaks volumes that Paragon Casino Resort is central Louisiana’s premier entertainment destination. I hope to see everyone on property next weekend for some fun!”
The festivities culminate with a breathtaking fireworks display at nightfall, presented by the Marksville Fire Department, Tunica-Biloxi Tribe and Paragon Casino Resort. General admission is $10, with free entry for children aged 4 and under. For more information, visit avoyellesarts.com or follow the festival on Facebook.
Paragon Casino Resort debuts a new dining option this month. Lucky Wok, a fast-casual Asian restaurant serving a selection of traditional and modern dishes is Marksville’s newest culinary destination and now open to the public.
Lucky Wok offers a curated selection of Asian-inspired dishes that emphasize bold flavor and convenience. Entrée choices include orange chicken, kung pao chicken, beef & broccoli, teriyaki chicken thighs and sweet & tangy pork ribs. Sides feature options like roast pork fried rice, stir-fried green beans and vegetable lo mein. Guests can choose from meal sizes including a bowl, medium plate or large plate. To complement the meal, appetizers such as chicken egg rolls and potstickers are also available.
With this opening, Lucky Wok joins Paragon Casino Resort’s diverse lineup of dining options, which include Legends Steakhouse, Roxy’s Diner, Market Place Buffet, The Draft Room, Tamahka Grill and Gator Coffee Co. Lucky Wok is located across from Legends Steakhouse, positioned between the Paragon’s atrium and the casino floor, offering convenient access for both hotel guests and casino visitors.
“Lucky Wok brings something completely new to the table for our guests,” said Marshall Ray Sampson, Sr., General Manager of Paragon Casino Resort. “With bold flavors, quick service and a central location in the resort, it’s designed to meet the needs of both casual diners and those on the go. We know our returning guests will also love the new variety being added to our culinary lineup.”
Lucky Wok is the newest addition to Paragon Casino Resort as the property closes out its 30th year of operation. In addition to Lucky Wok, Paragon has completed an extensive renovation of 531 rooms, upscale suites, hotel corridors and its lobby along with installing a beautiful eagle statue representing its tribal roots with the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana. Most recently, the casino resort added to its 64,000-square-foot gaming floor with the construction of the Dragon Link Den—which distinguishes Paragon as having the most fan-favorite Dragon Link slot machines of any casino in Louisiana.
For high-res photos of the Justice Center, click here.
The Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana celebrated the grand opening of its new Justice Center on Friday, May 16, 2025 with an open house and ribbon cutting ceremony. Located on the Tribe’s reservation in Marksville, the Justice Center houses the Tribal Police Department, Tribal Court and key administrative services, all rooted in the Tribe’s vision for justice, healing and self governance.
Tribal leadership, community members and dignitaries gathered for the ceremony, which included a dedication in honor of Mrs. Irene Jackson Gonzales and Mr. Sylvester “Uncle Joe” Barbry, both of whom were instrumental in advancing tribal services and advocacy. The event marked a significant milestone in the Tribe’s ongoing commitment to justice, safety and empowerment for its citizens.
“The Justice Center is more than just a building. It is a symbol of sovereignty and service,” said Tunica-Biloxi Chairman Marshall Pierite. “It represents our responsibility to protect, guide and uplift our people through a system built on tribal values, compassion and accountability.”
The Justice Center offers a comprehensive array of services, including Tribal Court, probation and parole offices, the prosecutor’s office, state fire marshal presence, wildlife and fisheries enforcement, the Tribal Police Department and the court clerk’s office, which also handles records and tribal land deeds.
Inside, the building reflects the Tribe’s belief that justice should offer the possibility of healing. Natural light pours into the space through a roof screen that diffuses sunlight and casts symbolic mosaic patterns inspired by the Tunica Treasure, paying tribute to the Tribe’s heritage and federal recognition journey. Elements of turquoise and water throughout the building are inspired by the Tribe’s creation story.
“The Justice Center represents a form of tribal justice that differs from traditional court systems. The goal is to symbolize hope and healing,” said Judge Robert Johnson, who oversees the Tribal Court. “Traditional justice systems can leave individuals feeling hopeless. Our approach offers an alternative—one centered on restoration, healing and opportunity.”
The Tribe’s unique Healing to Wellness Court emphasizes treatment over punishment, offering tailored services for addiction recovery, mental health support, family reunification and reentry programs. This court-based system partners closely with health services, family assistance, housing and workforce development to support long term rehabilitation and independence.
“Your governmental system is only as strong as your court system,” added Judge Johnson. “We’ve worked hard to ensure that our rules, regulations and tribal codes are up to date because we want our people to have confidence in this court.”
The event reaffirmed the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe’s deep investment in justice as a tool for empowerment and renewal. The Justice Center stands as a modern expression of tribal identity, bridging the past and future through service, structure and spirit.
The two-day celebration featured Native dance, music, cultural exhibits and the grand opening of the Tribe’s new Justice Center
For high-res photos of the 2025 Pow Wow, click here.
The Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana announced the successful conclusion of the 27th Annual Pow Wow, held May 17 and 18, 2025, on the Tunica-Biloxi Reservation in Marksville. The tribe welcomed neighboring tribes and the Avoyelles Parish community for a weekend celebration of Native American culture through music, dance, storytelling and traditional arts. This year’s Pow Wow also included the grand opening of the Tribe’s new Justice Center.
The event featured an expansive lineup of performances, including the Tunica-Biloxi Singers & Legend Keepers, AC Woodlands Singers, Buc Wild Singers, Thunder Boy Singers and Medicine Tail Singers. Dancers of all ages competed in traditional categories, while more than 30 vendors showcased Native cuisine, handmade jewelry and artisan crafts. Attendees were invited to take part in inter-tribal dances and browse cultural exhibits throughout the weekend.
“The Pow Wow is a space where tradition continues to live through movement, language and community,” said Tunica-Biloxi Chairman Marshall Pierite. “Our people have gathered for generations to share these traditions. Each year, we build on that foundation and strengthen the ties that connect us all.”
On Friday, May 16, the Tribe hosted a free Education Day to introduce students to Native American culture. Students enjoyed hands-on cultural experiences such as Pow Wow dancing, traditional flute music and Tunica-Biloxi storytelling.
Also on May 16, the Tribe held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the official grand opening of the Tunica-Biloxi Justice Center. Tribal leadership, local officials and community members gathered at the new facility to mark the milestone. During the ceremony, Chief of Police Harold Pierite described the station as a “beacon of integrity, accountability and community care,” built to serve and protect with a focus on trust and safety.
The weekend highlighted the Tribe’s dedication to cultural preservation and community investment, underscoring its ongoing commitment to future generations.
The Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana announced the start of a project that will ultimately protect Plaquemines Parish from future hurricanes and weather events. The work will be completed by Tunica-Biloxi JSTAR, LLC (TB-JSTAR), a subsidiary of the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe’s Economic Development Authority as part of a Joint Venture with JSTAR Enterprises.
TB-JSTAR began work in March 2025 in partnership with the New Orleans District of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in support of this project. The work marks a historic achievement for the Tribe as the first project under their joint venture with JSTAR Enterprises.
The Wilkinson Canal Pump Station Project is a critical infrastructure initiative aimed at enhancing hurricane water flood prevention measures for hundreds of thousands of residents in south Louisiana. The project involves replacing and repairing pumps at the Wilkinson Pump Station, directly safeguarding lives, homes and properties in a region highly vulnerable to severe weather events.
“This is not just a contract, it is a responsibility,” said Tabitha Frost, President of Tunica-Biloxi Services and an architect of the Tribe’s expansion into federal contracting. “The Wilkinson Canal Pump Station Project underscores our commitment to creating a tangible impact in our communities while building sustainable economic opportunities for the Tribe. This is just the beginning as we carve a path forward in the federal contracting arena.”
TB-JSTAR serves as the prime contractor on this standalone project, taking charge of day-to-day management, safety, regulatory compliance, and execution of the work itself. The joint venture is a strategic partnership between Tunica-Biloxi Services, LLC, a current Small Business Administration’s (SBA) 8(a) Program participant and HUBZone firm and New Orleans-based JSTAR Enterprises, a woman owned small business, HUBZone firm, and former participant in the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) 8(a) Program.
The SBA 8(a) Program is a business development initiative that provides small businesses with resources, mentorship and opportunities to compete in federal contracting. The TB-JSTAR JV is serviced by the SBA’s Louisiana District Office. Two years ago, the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe identified federal contracting as a pathway for economic growth and hired Frost in December of 2024 to lead the federal government portfolio. The Tribe’s proactive steps are now yielding significant results, with several projects in progress, including a roof replacement at Shaw Air Force Base.
A key figure in the project is Wendy Barbry Lemoine, a tribal member and President of TB-JSTAR, whose administrative oversight and coordination are pivotal to its success. Lemoine’s leadership embodies the Tribe’s commitment to fostering talent from within and empowering members to take on critical roles in advancing their shared vision.
Chairman Marshall Pierite of the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe emphasized the broader significance of this achievement. “This milestone exemplifies the vision and resilience of the Tunica-Biloxi people. Through strategic partnerships and leveraging federal programs like the 8(a) initiative, we are driving economic growth and ensuring the well-being of our community and the region. I couldn’t be prouder of Tabitha, Wendy, and the entire team for leading us into this new era.”
The Wilkinson Canal Pump Station Project symbolizes the beginning of a transformative journey for the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe in federal contracting. By addressing urgent infrastructure needs and safeguarding communities, the Tribe is proving its capability to deliver meaningful, high-impact solutions.
The Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana announces the re-election of Chairman Marshall Pierite to serve as Chairman of both the Inter-Tribal Council of Louisiana (ITCLA) Board of Directors and the Institute for Indian Development (IID) Board of Directors. These re-elections affirm Chairman Pierite’s ongoing commitment to collaborative leadership and his steadfast dedication to advancing the needs of tribal nations across the state and country.
Chairman Pierite’s leadership has been pivotal in shaping coordinated efforts among Louisiana’s tribal communities in areas such as cultural preservation, economic growth, community development and government-to-government advocacy. His continued service in these roles ensures that critical progress and momentum will be sustained well into the future, especially significant as ITCLA marks its 50th anniversary in 2025.
“I am deeply honored to continue serving our tribal nations through these vital organizations,” said Chairman Marshall Pierite. “Our work is rooted in tradition but focused on the future. We are investing in our people, protecting our sovereignty and building stronger communities that reflect our values, resilience and vision for generations to come.”
The Institute for Indian Development, established in 1981, serves as a forward-thinking extension of the ITCLA’s foundational mission. Focused on long-term, community-driven growth, the IID provides support in areas such as workforce training, entrepreneurship, leadership development and strategic planning that aligns with each tribe’s unique heritage and goals.
The IID’s consortium includes both federally and state-recognized tribes:
Federally-recognized tribes:
Chitimacha Tribe of Louisiana
Coushatta Tribe of Louisiana
Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana
Jena Band of Choctaw Indians
State-recognized tribes:
United Houma Nation
Choctaw Apache Tribe of Louisiana
Clifton Choctaw Tribe of Louisiana
Together, the Inter-Tribal Council of Louisiana and the Institute for Indian Development serve as key platforms for uniting these tribes in shared advocacy and empowerment. Their joint mission is to deliver meaningful resources directly to communities ranging from education and employment initiatives to social services, infrastructure support, and cultural revitalization efforts. As ITCLA celebrates five decades of service this year, both organizations remain deeply committed to ensuring tribal nations only preserve their identities and thrive in modern society through self-determination and strategic investments.
“Our collective mission is to bring lasting impact to Native communities in Louisiana and beyond,” said John Silver, Executive Director of ITCLA and IID. “As we celebrate the Inter-Tribal Council’s 50th anniversary, it’s especially meaningful to have Chairman Pierite’s steady leadership guiding us into the future. His ability to unify diverse voices and drive meaningful action continues to inspire progress and partnerships that benefit every tribe we serve.”
In addition to Chairman Pierite’s leadership, the Boards of ITCLA and IID are composed of respected tribal leaders from across the state, each bringing invaluable experience and dedication to the table.
The current elected officers include:
Hon. Marshall Pierite, Chairman Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana Chairman & CEO
Hon. Melissa Darden, Vice Chairman Chitimacha Tribe of Louisiana Chairman
Hon. Lora Ann Chaisson, 2nd Vice Chairman United Houma Nation Principal Chief
Together, these leaders will continue building on the legacy of progress established through decades of intertribal collaboration, advocacy and innovation.
Combining culture, heritage and environmental stewardship, the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe is dedicated to protecting the land for future generations.
Today, the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana hosted an inspiring Earth Day celebration that united the community in a shared love of the land and a deep commitment to preserving it for future generations.
In partnership with the Tunica-Biloxi Education Department and Proctor & Gamble, the celebration offered a mix of cultural activities and environmental education designed to honor the natural world that has sustained the Tribe for centuries. The day concluded with a ceremonial tree planting on the Tunica-Biloxi Reservation in the heart of Central Louisiana.
“On this Earth Day, we celebrate the land and honor the wisdom of our ancestors, who taught us that Mother Earth is not just where we live—it is who we are,” said Chairman Marshall Pierite of the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe. “Protecting the Earth is a sacred duty, ensuring that future generations inherit a world as full of life and beauty as the one our ancestors cherished.”
Community members and visitors were able to take part in kite flying, a recycling relay race and a collaborative community art project. The Tunica-Biloxi Agricultural Department hosted an engaging Lunch & Learn themed “Protecting the Land,” which provided practical insights into sustainable habits and the importance of conservation. To honor the land, the Tribe planted Longleaf Pine trees on the reservation—a tree that is deeply rooted in Tunica-Biloxi history.
“Longleaf Pine trees were traditionally used by our ancestors in making baskets and other goods. By planting more of these beautiful trees, we are showing respect to our culture and making a promise to our future Tribal citizens,” said John Barbry, Director of Development & Programming. “These trees will strengthen the land that makes up our ancestral home and sustain the local wildlife we all know and love.”
The Tunica-Biloxi Tribe has long been committed to safeguarding the Earth and protecting the natural environment of their Avoyelles Parish home. The Tribe extends heartfelt thanks to all participants, media representatives, partners and supporters for contributing to the success of this memorable event.
Admission to this year’s LaRuE Development Summit is completely FREE!
