"For generations, the Patwin people have grown sadly used to secretive federal decision-making that undermines our way of life," said Anthony Roberts, the Yocha Dehe Wintun chairman. "But we never expected it from one of our own or from a federal government that reports to respect tribal sovereignty and rights."
Charlie Wright, the Kletsel Dehe Wintun chairman, said the casino's development would directly impact sensitive cultural sites. "These sites carry the weight of our history," Wright said. "Representing villages of our ancestors who regarded this land as their home."
Jesse Gonzalez, the tribe's vice chairman, wrote in a statement sent to The Sacramento Bee. Losing land is one of them. He wrote that the casino project would allow the tribe to "reestablish a homeland and build a sustainable future" for members. "This project represents a transformative opportunity to reverse this history, allowing our Tribe to reestablish a homeland and build a sustainable future for our members."
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