Over the years newspapers in the 35 states in which
Indian tribes are located often have carried articles and editorials
complaining about special rights and so-called “economic advantages” of
Indians. The basis of some of these articles is blatant racism and
prejudice. But mostly the remarks are due to ignorance about American
history and law, as well as the real economic impact that tribes have
on the local economy. History has proved over and over again that while
Indian economies are fragile, they provide important fuel for the
regional economy. Said another way, the region would suffer
economically if the tribes were not there, or if they were there as
“individuals” without the benefits of the federal-Indian trust
relationship.
