AIGA represents member tribes across Arizona, united in advocating for the benefits and growth of tribal gaming in Arizona. Since its founding in 1994, AIGA has served as a collective voice to protect the inherent sovereign rights of tribes while promoting the economic, cultural, and social advancements derived from Indian gaming operations. With tribal gaming contributing over $100 billion to the U.S. economy, AIGA remains at the forefront of ensuring its success benefits tribal nations and their surrounding communities.

“It is a tremendous honor to serve as the Chairman of the Arizona Indian Gaming Association,” said Chairman Velasquez. “I am inspired by the resilience and vision of our tribal leaders, and I look forward to working together to advance our shared priorities – protecting sovereignty, fostering economic opportunities, and ensuring our voices are heard at every level. By uniting our efforts, we can continue to create a prosperous future for all our people. For more than 30 years, AIGA has served the interest of tribes in Arizona, specifically advancing our Indian gaming economies and initiatives. I am honored to inherit this strong legacy of leadership and organization from the many tribal leaders who served prior to myself and look forward to advancing their vision and legacy of AIGA.”

Chairman Velasquez, a member of the Bear Clan (Nagodishgizh’n) and Roadrunner Clan (Biszaha), has dedicated his life to public service. As Chairman of the White Mountain Apache Tribe, he has prioritized unifying the tribal council to address and invest in critical areas such as education, housing, and economic development.

His foundation in leadership stems from a lineage of influential tribal leaders, including his grandmother, Mary Velasquez Riley, the first woman elected to the White Mountain Apache Tribal Council, who served for 20 years and was inducted into the Arizona Women’s Hall of Fame.

Chairman Velasquez’s career includes serving as White Mountain Apache Tribe Vice-Chairman and District IV Tribal Councilman. Prior to serving in tribal leadership, he dedicated his professional career to public education, both in the classroom and executive administration.