Tribes oppose Idaho's Prop 1

The Affiliated Tribes of Northwest Indians (ATNI) announced its opposition to Proposition 1, a ballot initiative to reinstate historical horse racing machines in Idaho.

“Proposition 1 presents a critical challenge to the economic life and well-being of our member tribes from Idaho. We must stand together, united in support of the broad coalition of community and tribal leaders from across the state of Idaho to defeat Proposition 1. It’s absolutely critical that this initiative is defeated. It could have a devastating impact for Idaho’s Tribes and will dramatically cut ongoing investments in Idaho’s public schools,” said Leonard Forsman, president of ATNI and chairman of the Suquamish Tribe of Washington.

Representatives from Idaho United Against Proposition 1 provided a presentation about the proposed initiative to more than 400 Tribal leaders representing over 50 American Indian and Alaska Native Tribes from across the Pacific Northwest. During the presentation, Tribal leaders had an opportunity to learn about the potential impacts Proposition 1 will have on Tribal communities and all Idaho communities.

ATNI members overwhelmingly voted to support and join the coalition during the general session of the 2018 Annual Convention.

“It’s clear when you look at the facts around Proposition 1, that this initiative is misleading and disingenuous on several levels. As a founding member of Idaho United Against Proposition 1, the Coeur d’Alene Tribe is taking an active role in this discussion and will continue to inform voters of the negative impacts this will have on all of our communities,” said Ernie Stensgar, chairman of the Coeur d’Alene Tribe, which is hosting this year’s annual convention.