Speaking Rock Entertainment Center, located in El Paso, Texas, is owned and operated by the Tigua Indians of the Ysleta del Sur Pueblo. This comprehensive guide delves into the history, features, and legal battles surrounding this popular entertainment destination.
A History of Legal Battles
The history of Speaking Rock is intertwined with a decades-long struggle for gaming rights. The casino originally opened in 1993 but was forced to close in 2003 due to legal challenges from the State of Texas. The Tigua Indians argued that the National Indian Gaming Regulatory Act of 1988 (IGRA) granted them the right to operate Class II gaming on their sovereign land. This contention was supported by a 2015 court decision and a ruling by the U.S. Interior Department, affirming that Texas had violated IGRA.
In 2016, Speaking Rock reopened as the Speaking Rock Entertainment Center. However, the fight continued, culminating in a landmark June 2022 U.S. Supreme Court ruling that definitively affirmed the Tigua Indians’ right to offer Class II gaming, solidifying Speaking Rock’s future.
Entertainment and Amenities at Speaking Rock
Speaking Rock Entertainment Center offers a wide range of entertainment options beyond gaming:
- Gaming: Featuring a vast selection of Class II video gaming machines, including bingo-style slots. Prior to the 2003 closure, the casino boasted 1,100 slot machines, compared to the current 150.
- Live Entertainment: The center hosts outdoor concerts featuring renowned artists.
- Dining: Guests can enjoy a variety of dining experiences, from the casual Sidewalk Cafe to a full-service restaurant and multiple bars.
- Sports Viewing: Catch all the action on 50 large-screen TVs throughout the facility. The Spirit Garden Bar is the designated smoking area within the otherwise non-smoking facility.
Speaking Rock is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, catering to a diverse clientele. The minimum age for entry is 21.
Recent Developments and News
The legal journey of Speaking Rock Entertainment Center has been marked by significant milestones:
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2022 Supreme Court Victory: The June 2022 Supreme Court ruling in Ysleta del Sur Pueblo v. Texas secured the Tigua Indians’ right to offer Class II gaming, including bingo-type slot machines and other non-banked games not explicitly prohibited by Texas law. This decision marked a turning point in the ongoing battle for tribal gaming rights in Texas.
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Legislative Efforts: Throughout the years, various bills have been introduced in the Texas legislature aiming to expand gambling at tribal casinos and clarify the legal framework surrounding Indian gaming. These legislative efforts reflect the complex and evolving relationship between state and tribal governments regarding gaming regulations.
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Justice Department Involvement: In 2021, the U.S. Supreme Court requested the Justice Department’s opinion on the Tigua Indians’ case, highlighting the federal government’s role in interpreting and enforcing IGRA.
The Future of Speaking Rock
The Speaking Rock Entertainment Center stands as a testament to the Tigua Indians’ perseverance in their fight for sovereignty and economic self-determination. With the legal landscape now clearly defined, Speaking Rock is poised to continue thriving as a major entertainment destination in El Paso and a significant contributor to the local economy. The center’s diverse offerings, combined with its historical significance, ensure its continued appeal to both locals and visitors. While challenges may arise in the future, the resilience demonstrated by the Tigua Indians suggests that Speaking Rock will remain a prominent landmark for years to come.
