The National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) is launching a new Tribal Advisory Council whose aim is fighting and preventing problem gambling in the Native American community. It’s an effort that’s not merely about helping problem gamblers and keeping younger generations from developing poor gambling habits, it’s also an effort that’s meant to show respect for Native American culture.
Combating problem gambling in any environment is not easy, but America’s tribal reservations represent a special challenge for groups like the NCPG. Native communities are frequently geographically isolated and are frequently suspicious of outside efforts to impact their behavior. The NCPG is hoping to do an end-run around these problems by approaching their efforts in a culturally sensitive manner.
NCPG Executive Director Keith Whyte addressed this aspect of the program in a recent press release saying, “Our work with tribes is based on a deep respect for Tribal sovereignty and our core values of neutrality, collaboration, respect and credibility. We have a responsibility to listen and learn, as well as the opportunity to share our knowledge as we seek to reduce the social costs of gambling addiction and improve health and wellness in all communities. The relationships and partnerships we have forged over the years are the strong foundation for this exciting new project.”
Working alongside the NCPG is the Trilogy Group, a Native-owned consulting firm with more than 50 years experience. Trilogy Group Founding Partner and Chief Executive Officer Valerie Spicer also expressed her enthusiasm for the project saying, “We applaud the formation of the NCPG’s Tribal Advisory Council and look forward to supporting stronger connection with the Tribes. This work acknowledges the significance of Tribal Gaming in the gambling sector, the impacts of Tribal gaming on communities, and ways we can support finding balance in helping people heal from gambling-related harm respectfully amid the complexity.”