I will not continue to be disrespected in such a manner.
I am planning to open a casino myself to benefit my tribal members and other Native American people.
In no way, shape, or form are Native Americans connected to citizens of India simply because the terms “Indian” and “Indians” have historically been used in different contexts. Native Americans and the people of India are distinct peoples, cultures, and populations.
I have heard that Donald J. Trump has faced various financial, criminal, and civil matters. Those matters have nothing to do with me whatsoever, and I find comments that misrepresent or disrespect Native Americans to be highly inappropriate and offensive.
I am also having concerns regarding attempts by him and members of his family to purchase land in areas where I have land rights. None of my land is for sale.
Neither is any of the land that China is attempting to purchase in any part of the Americas, Africa, Europe, or anywhere else in which I have land rights. At no point did I authorize, approve, or consent to any such transactions involving my property or land rights.
The historical comments attributed to Donald J. Trump regarding Native American casinos are particularly troubling to me. In 1993, he was quoted as saying, “They don't look like Indians to me,” in reference to Native American casino operators.
Native Americans are not the same as people from India, and using terminology or stereotypes in a manner that diminishes Native American identity is disrespectful and inappropriate.
“They don't look like Indians to me”: Donald Trump on Native American casinos in 1993
I believe Native American communities deserve to be treated with dignity, respect, and recognition of their distinct identities, cultures, histories, and sovereignty.
I also believe that individuals and businesses should respect the property rights and boundaries of others. My land is not for sale, and I did not authorize anyone to represent otherwise.
I have every right to advocate for my community, protect my interests, and pursue opportunities—including a casino venture—that I believe could benefit my tribal members and other Native American communities.
I will continue to stand up for those rights and expect them to be respected.
