Today is all about making connections between the research at UCR and the research agenda of CA Native Nations and other governments.

-- Joel Martin, Dean, CHASS, Co-Director, CCNN

Gaming has brought our people a long way.  Definitely.  Rekindling the cultural identity.  That sense of self-worth bringing up the self-esteem. we have a long ways to go ladies and gentlemen. And there are those that are in positions of power that wish to strip from us. They are trying take it away from us.  We are trying to build into the system the interlocking measures that would prohibit us from sliding back.

-- Richard Milanovich, Chairman, Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians

We must practice good community practices.  That is what we must do. For all communities. Indian.  White.  Be equal and fair in our judgments. That’s the first thing that we got to do so that we all can benefit.

-- Gary Stopp, Chief of Staff, Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians

I think CA tribal leaders are being called from other parts of the US because of the progressiveness that we have and the outspokenness. We are very stern in our cultural and our heritage and sometimes we don’t take no for an answer.  Not there to shake your hand.  Not looking for handouts but a helping hand… president… dept. of interior.

-- Robert Salgado, Chairman, Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians

Gaming that really allowed us to demonstrate to CA that we are not the humble little Indians any more.  They could not come into negotiations because we don’t need the state of CA but they need us.

-- Deron Marquez, Chairman, San Manuel Band of Serrano Indians

What I have learned through my work in the cultural department.  It explains the archaeology of the people.  Dig us up and look around and try to connect the dots.  Without that language component, they never real got the whole story.  Now we’re able to help them with that.  Next generation. Nephews speaking fluent Lusienio and visit a site and discuss the site name and have a much better idea of what is going on there.

-- Amy Minniear, Officer, Pechanga Development Corporation

What you are seeing here in the last 50 years is the emergence of powerful, strong, independent, self- governing Indian nations within the boundaries of the US.  Who would have thought that casinos would have helped them bring that about.

-- Michael Lombardi, Chairman, Augustine Gaming Commission