SAN DIEGO, CA — March 31, 2026 — The Indian Gaming Association (IGA) proudly presented the prestigious Rick Hill–Tim Wapato Sovereign Warrior Award to Eddie Leon Tullis, former Tribal Chairman of the Poarch Band of Creek Indians, during the Chairman’s Leadership Luncheon held Tuesday, March 31, 2026, at the Indian Gaming Tradeshow & Convention.

The Sovereign Warrior Award, created in honor of tribal leaders Rick Hill and Tim Wapato, recognizes individuals whose lifelong commitment to tribal sovereignty, self-determination, and economic development has helped shape Indian Country. The Leadership Luncheon brought together tribal leaders, industry partners, and honored guests to celebrate those whose work continues to strengthen the foundation of Indian gaming.

“Eddie Tullis represents the very definition of a Sovereign Warrior,” said Indian Gaming Association Chairman David Z. Bean. “His leadership helped secure federal recognition for his Tribe, and his vision laid the groundwork for economic opportunity that continues to benefit generations today. His life’s work reflects the strength, resilience, and determination that define Indian Country.”

Chairman Bean continued, “This award is about more than honoring one man. It is about recognizing the path that leaders like Eddie Tullis helped create for all of us. As we move forward, we do so grounded in that legacy and committed to protecting what they fought to build.”

During the program, Gay Kingman, former Public Relations Director and the wife of the late Tim Wapato, reflected on the early days of the organization when the National Indian Gaming Association was built from the ground up through unity and determination.

“We started this work from kitchen tables and living rooms, bringing tribes together at a time when many doubted Indian gaming would succeed,” said Kingman. “Leaders like Rick Hill, Tim Wapato, and Eddie Tullis stood shoulder to shoulder, traveling state to state, fighting for compacts, educating communities, and defending our right to game. It was never easy, but it was always about protecting our people and our future.”

Kingman added, “The Sovereign Warrior Award honors those who never stopped fighting for tribal sovereignty. Eddie Tullis is one of those warriors.”

In accepting the award, Tullis reflected on the collective journey of tribal leaders across Indian Country.

“I accept this honor on behalf of all the tribal leaders who came before us and those who continue the work today,” said Tullis. “We started with very little, but we believed in our people and in our future. What we built together has created opportunity where there once was none, and it continues to improve the lives of our communities.”

Tullis continued, “There are many warriors in this room. The work does not stop with any one of us. It carries on through the next generation, and I am confident that the future of Indian Country is in strong hands.”

The Sovereign Warrior Celebration remains one of the most meaningful gatherings of the Indian Gaming Tradeshow & Convention, honoring the leaders who have paved the way for tribal sovereignty and the continued success of tribal government gaming.

As IGA continues its work on behalf of its member tribes, the legacy of leaders like Eddie Tullis serves as a powerful reminder of what can be achieved through unity, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to sovereignty.