At the Native Hawaiian Convention 2025, presented by the Hawaiian Council, a breakout panel brought together leaders to explore how gaming — led by Hawaiians, for Hawaiians — can serve as a tool for restoration and reconciliation.

Hosted in the Youth Center in Tulalip WA, the discussion featured Brie Coyle Jones, Brandon Makaʻawaʻawa, Ryan Miller, Anthony A. Marnell III, moderated by Tyler Iokepa Gomes. Together, they unpacked how gaming can evolve beyond entertainment into a vehicle for economic sovereignty, cultural empowerment, and wealth creation within Hawaiian communities.

This conversation wasn’t about casinos — it was about reclaiming power, protecting ʻāina, and designing our own economic future. By centering community ownership and cultural values, gaming can become a modern platform for the Hawaiian people to restore abundance and self-determination on their own terms.

Watch the full video to see how this movement is reshaping what sovereignty looks like in the 21st century.

Nation of Hawai‘i Statement on Gaming

The Nation of Hawai‘i is not opposed to gaming as a form of economic development. However, any conversation about introducing the gaming industry to Hawai‘i must begin and end with Native Hawaiian leadership and consent.

Gaming, if pursued, must be led by Hawaiians, for Hawaiians — ensuring that our people maintain a seat at the table, decision-making authority, and ownership of the industry’s direction and benefits.

This is not about casinos — it’s about self-determination, community stewardship, and economic sovereignty. Gaming can only serve the lāhui when it uplifts our people, protects our ʻāina, and honors our cultural values of Aloha and kuleana.

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