Ysleta del Sur Pueblo

Ysleta del Sur Pueblo

Ysleta del Sur Pueblo, also called Tigua Pueblo, is a Native American group in the Ysleta area of El Paso, Texas. The people are Southern Tiwa and came from Spanish New Mexico during the Pueblo Revolt against the Spaniards in 1680 to 1681.

The tribe’s members call themselves Tigua, which is pronounced "tiwa." They have kept their identity and lands in Texas. Spanish replaced their original language in the early 1900s, and today English is more common. But there are efforts to bring back their traditional language.

Ysleta del Sur Pueblo is one of three tribes in Texas that are officially recognized by the government.

Tribal government

As of 2022, E. Michael Silvas is the governor of Ysleta del Sur Pueblo. The Tribal Council included several leaders such as Sheriff Bernardo Gonzales and Councilman Rudy Cruz Jr.

In 2020, the tribal government had many employees, and most of them were members of the tribe.

Population

In 2008, there were 1,615 members of Ysleta del Sur Pueblo. By 2020, this number grew to 4,696.

Economic development

For about 40 years, the Ysleta del Sur Pueblo has run its own businesses. These help provide jobs for its members and the community in El Paso. Their businesses include Big Bear Oil Co., Inc., the Tigua Indian Cultural Center, and the Speaking Rock Entertainment Center.

The Speaking Rock Entertainment Center in El Paso has live concerts, a restaurant, a café, and bars. It was first called the Speaking Rock Casino and started offering some games in 2022.

History

The Ysleta del Sur Pueblo is a federally recognized Native American tribe and sovereign nation. The Tigua people started Ysleta del Sur in 1682 after leaving their old homes because of drought. They had been captured by Spanish forces during the Pueblo Revolt and traveled over 400 miles to settle there.

In the 20th century, the Tigua community faced many challenges, including losing their tribal lands and living in poverty. In 1966, they asked for help and started working to regain their federal recognition. With support from leaders and scholars, they kept working hard. In 1987, federal recognition was restored, allowing the tribe to get services and keep their cultural traditions.