Jamul Indian Village awaits senate decision on 172 acres

Jade Denosta July 23, 2024

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Jamul Indian Village awaits senate decision on 172 acres

The Jamul Indian Village (JIV) is one step closer to acquiring 172 acres of land in trust for the tribe’s benefit. The Senate Committee on Indian Affairs held a hearing on 11 July to consider S. 3857, the Jamul Indian Village Land Transfer Act. The bill which was introduced by Senator Alex Padilla, is identical to H.R. 6443, which the House of Representatives has already passed.

The JIV has a reservation of only 6 acres, one of the smallest in the United States. If passed, S. 3857 would place four land parcels totalling 172 acres into trust. The JIV plans to use the land for housing, reuniting the scattered community, protecting cultural resources, and building essential services for tribal members like healthcare and education.

“By passage of S. 3857, the federal government would be helping the Tribe to honor its ancestors and their sacrifices in order to remain and prosper in the place that we have always called home.”
– Erica M. Pinto, Chairwoman of Jamul India Village

Jamul Indian Village Chairwoman Erica Pinto testified before the Senate committee, highlighting the tribe’s history and the importance of acquiring additional land. She explained how the JIV’s ancestors were displaced from their land and how the tribe has struggled to maintain its cultural identity. Chairwoman Pinto emphasised that the land is needed to house tribal members, provide essential services, and protect the tribe’s ancestral cemetery.

The Jamul-Dulzura Community Planning Group (JDCPG) has raised concerns about the land transfer, arguing that they were not consulted about the notion and that the process bypassed local input. The JDCPG is also concerned about the possibility of commercial development on the land despite S. 3857 explicitly prohibiting gaming once it is taken into trust.

The Senate Committee on Indian Affairs has not yet voted on S. 3857. With the House having already approved the companion bill, passage of the legislation would represent a significant victory for the Jamul Indian Village.

At the forefront of progress

Erica M. Pinto (pictured above), Chairwoman of the Jamul Indian Village (JIV), has transformed the tribe’s fortunes over two decades. Leading one of the 13 Kumeyaay Nation tribes, Pinto joined the JIV council in 1997 at 21 and became the first Chairwoman in 2015.

During her reign, projects for economic progress have been her priority, like the 2016 agreement with San Diego County that led to the successful Hollywood Casino Jamul-San Diego, creating nearly 1,000 jobs and generating over $100 million (approximately €9.8 million) for the tribe. She also co-founded the Acorn to Oaks tribal programme, which promoted culture, youth development, and health for tribal members.

Pinto also holds positions in key organisations and advocates for tribal transportation issues. Her dedication has built a brighter future for the Jamul Indian Village.

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