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 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.
The public is invited to celebrate native culture with vibrant arts, captivating storytelling, and thrilling dance at this year’s must-see event
The Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana will host its 27th Annual Pow Wow on May 17 and 18, 2025, at the Chief Joseph Alcide Pierite Pow Wow Grounds on the Tunica-Biloxi Reservation in Marksville, Louisiana. This annual public event welcomes various regional indigenous tribes to come together and celebrate their shared cultures through vibrant craft displays, music performances, dance presentations and cultural exhibits. Throughout the weekend, a variety of interactive events and live performances will showcase the history and traditions of the Tribe, while also offering attendees the opportunity to learn about the cultural richness of neighboring tribes from across the region.
“The Pow Wow is an important moment for us to not only reflect on the strength and resilience of our people, but also to celebrate the shared cultural spirit of Native American communities,” said Tunica-Biloxi Chairman Marshall Pierite. “After years of successful events, we are working tirelessly to make this year’s event even more impactful. It’s a time for us to honor our accomplishments and highlight the ongoing contributions of all indigenous tribes. The success of one tribe is a victory for all of us as we continue to pass down our rich traditions.”
This year’s event will feature a wide array of performances, including the Tunica-Biloxi Singers & Legend Keepers, AC Woodlands Singers, Buc Wild Singers, Thunder Boy Singers, and Medicine Tail Singers. Dance competitions will be held for participants from ages 6 to 55+, and dancers can pre-register for the event by May 14, 2025. The Pow Wow will also host over 30 food and craft vendors, offering traditional foods, indigenous arts, jewelry, and handmade crafts. Vendors interested in participating are encouraged to contact Babette Bordelon – babette.bordelon@tunica.org or Paulette Voiselle – pvoiselle@tunica.org.
In addition to the Pow Wow celebrations, the Tribe will host a free Education Day on Friday, May 16, 2025, with two presentations at 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. at the Tunica-Biloxi Gymnasium. Education Day is designed to give local children and school groups a hands-on opportunity to learn about Native American culture through Pow Wow dance demonstrations, Tunica-Biloxi storytelling, flute music, and interactive cultural exhibits. For more information, contact Elisabeth Pierite-Mora at emora@tunica.org or (318) 240-6432.
General Admission for the 2025 Pow Wow is $8.00 for adults and children over five years of age and $5.00 for children under the age of five. Registered dancers will be admitted with assigned numbers. Hotel reservations at Paragon Casino Resort are welcome by direct phone call to our special group reservations number at Paragon Casino Resort reservations office (800) 642-7777 and/or fax to (318) 240-6601. Rate code: TBP15GR
For generations, Native American Tribes have been powerful economic engines, playing a vital role in strengthening America’s economy. As the nation looks toward a more prosperous future, the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe stands ready to lead efforts in revitalizing the manufacturing sector and call center industries—bringing American jobs back home and ensuring sustained economic growth.
Over the past 25 years, the United States has seen a significant decline in its manufacturing sector, shedding more than 5 million jobs, including over 40,000 in Louisiana alone. Additionally, the outsourcing of hundreds of thousands of call center positions have weakened local economies and deprived American workers of stable employment opportunities. This trend is not only unacceptable—it is reversible. The Tunica-Biloxi Tribe is prepared to take decisive and strategic action to restore these jobs, recognizing that strong nation-to-nation partnerships are not just beneficial but essential to the nation’s long-term economic health.
President Trump has acknowledged the critical role of America’s Tribal Nations in the economy, prioritizing investment in tribal governments during his first term. Across the country, Native American reservations represent vast yet largely untapped economic potential, boasting a ready workforce, competitive tax incentives, and the infrastructure necessary to support significant business expansion. Indian Country can be a driving force in reshoring American jobs, and the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe is prepared to lead this effort with a renewed commitment to economic development and sustainability.
As Chairman of the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana, I have seen firsthand how tribal businesses fuel economic expansion and how job training initiatives create pathways to prosperity. A prime example is the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe’s Paragon Casino Resort in Marksville, Louisiana. For over 30 years, Paragon has been a cornerstone of economic development, providing thousands of jobs to both tribal citizens and non-tribal workers across central Louisiana. Beyond employment, Paragon has invested more than $40 million in contributions and donations to support local communities, demonstrating the Tribe’s unwavering commitment to shared prosperity. Yet, our potential extends far beyond gaming. The Tunica-Biloxi Tribe has also been a leader in the financial services industry and has successfully operated a call center on our reservation for over 12 years, further strengthening our economic footprint.
Building on this legacy of economic leadership, the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe is now expanding its efforts, particularly in the textile industry—one of the largest manufacturing sectors in the United States. We are in the process of restoring and revitalizing an existing manufacturing facility to establish a cut-and-sew operation under Tunica-Biloxi Industries. This initiative is expected to generate quality jobs, increase revenue, and enhance our Tribe’s long-term economic sovereignty while making a lasting impact on American manufacturing.
However, even greater economic opportunities remain untapped. To fully realize this potential, we must empower America’s Tribal Nations to expand their economic influence and sustain long-term growth within their communities. The Tunica-Biloxi Tribe is committed to investing in workforce development programs and job training initiatives that equip our people with the skills necessary for long-term career success and financial independence.
America’s Tribal Nations are among the country’s greatest economic assets. Investing in shared economic prosperity is not just an option—it is a necessity for ensuring a stable, thriving national economy. We are committed to working with leaders who recognize the economic strength of Indian Country and the crucial role we play in revitalizing the American workforce and local economies. A thriving national economy depends on expanding opportunities in Tribal communities, ensuring that Native households and businesses have the resources they need to succeed. Federal programs that support Tribal governments are not merely diversity initiatives; they are rooted in the foundational government-to-government relationship between sovereign nations, aimed at fostering economic prosperity for both tribes and their non-tribal neighbors alike.
With President Trump’s leadership, we are witnessing the dawn of a new American Golden Age—an era defined by resilience, collaboration, and self-determination. The Tunica-Biloxi Tribe is committed to working alongside President Donald Trump and Congress to address shared challenges and create meaningful economic opportunities for all Americans, paving the way for sustained economic growth and stability.
Indian Country stands at a pivotal moment. The opportunity before us is unprecedented, but as the saying goes, an opportunity of a lifetime is only available during the lifetime of the opportunity. That time is now, and we must seize it with unwavering determination and strategic action.
The Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana is proud to announce that Dr. Julie Zahn, Council Member At Large, has been appointed to the United States Department of Justice’s (DOJ) Violence Against American Indian and Alaska Native Women Tribal Leaders Council (OVW TLC or Council). Dr. Zahn, who is both Tunica-Biloxi and Choctaw, was elected to the Tunica-Biloxi Tribal Council in April 2024 as an advocate for Indigenous communities, focusing on initiatives that promote equity, empowerment and safety for Native women.
This appointment reflects Dr. Zahn’s leadership and commitment to addressing the unique challenges faced by Indigenous women, and emphasizes her role advancing the Tribe’s interests on both a regional and national scale. Dr. Zahn’s appointment to the OVW TLC aligns with the Tribe’s broader efforts to advocate for social justice and the well-being of Native communities.
The OVW TLC, established by the DOJ’s Office on Violence Against Women, provides a forum for Tribal leaders to exchange insights and expertise on federal programs aimed at combating domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking and sex trafficking within Native communities. The Council is charged with offering policy recommendations, advising on legislation, and facilitating the implementation of programs designed to strengthen the safety and protection of American Indian and Alaska Native women.
In addition to her leadership on the Tunica-Biloxi Tribal Council, her role as the Director of the American Indian Center of Houston underscores her commitment to serving Native populations, as the Center provides resources for American Indians and Alaska Natives in the Houston area.
“The appointment of Dr. Julie Zahn to the Violence Against American Indian and Alaska Native Women Tribal Leaders Council is a pivotal moment for our Tribe and will prove beneficial to the broader Indigenous community,” said Tunica-Biloxi Chairman Marshall Pierite. “Dr. Zahn’s vision and dedication will undoubtedly make a significant impact in the fight to protect Native women and ensure that their voices are heard at the highest levels of government.”
As a representative of the Eastern Region, Dr. Zahn will serve alongside 11 other leaders on the Council, contributing to the development of policies and programs that enhance the safety, empowerment and healing of survivors across Indian Country.
The Tunica-Biloxi Tribe congratulates Dr. Zahn on this remarkable achievement and commends her for her steadfast commitment to creating safer, more just communities for American Indian and Alaska Native women.
The Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana has been awarded a $5 million Indian Housing Block Grant (IHBG-Competitive) by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). This significant funding will support the construction of 11 single-family rental homes, addressing critical housing needs within the Tribe’s community. The project will include a variety of layouts, providing much-needed housing for Tunica-Biloxi families, reducing overcrowding and ensuring safe, reliable housing on the Tunica-Biloxi reservation in order to bring more tribal citizens home to their ancestral lands.
“This award represents a monumental step forward for the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe in our mission to enhance the quality of life for our citizens,” said Tunica-Biloxi Chairman Marshall Pierite. “The construction of these homes will significantly reduce the housing needs in our community and create opportunities for families to thrive – it also is an opportunity to bring our citizens home for good. I am deeply grateful to the dedicated individuals whose expertise and hard work made this achievement possible.”
The success of this initiative is a result of collaborative efforts led by an outstanding team:
Project Director: Earl Barbry, Jr.
Director of Land and Facilities: Ron Bordelon
Housing Director: Stephanie Stiles
Tribal Employment Rights Officer: Terryl Pierite
Their collective leadership and vision were instrumental in crafting a compelling application and will be vital in ensuring the successful implementation of this project. Additionally, Chairman Pierite acknowledged the invaluable contributions of the grant committee members—Francine Darby, Jacob Snow, Amy Sampson and Megan Guillot—as well as Larry Andrews and Kevin Billiot, whose technical expertise was essential in securing this funding. The homes will be built in Heritage Villa on the Tribe’s reservation in Marksville.
“The construction of these 11 new homes is not just about providing shelter; it’s about creating a foundation where families can feel safe, supported, and empowered to build a brighter future,” Tunica-Biloxi Director of Housing Stephanie Stiles stated. “These homes will directly address critical needs in our community, reducing overcrowding and providing families with a stable and secure place to call home. It’s an honor to contribute to a project that will have such a lasting impact on the lives of citizens and the future of the Tribe.”
This project is expected to begin in January 2025, with an anticipated completion date of May 2028. The project as a whole represents a critical step in addressing housing challenges faced by the Tunica-Biloxi community and demonstrates the Tribe’s unwavering commitment to improving the well-being of its citizens.
Chairman Pierite added, “This achievement underscores a belief my father often expressed: ‘It takes teamwork to make the dream work.’ Together, we are building a stronger, more resilient future for the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe.”
Admission to this year’s LaRuE Development Summit is completely FREE!
