Ysleta del Sur Pueblo

Ysleta del Sur Pueblo, also called Tigua Pueblo, is a Native American group and a recognized tribe 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, even though Spanish replaced their original language in the early 1900s. Today, English is becoming 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 in 2021 included Sheriff Bernardo Gonzales, Councilman Rudy Cruz Jr., Councilman Rafael Gomez Jr., Governor E. Michael Silvas, Cacique Jose Sierra Sr., Lt. Governor Adam Torres, War Captain Javier Loera, Councilman Raul Candelaria, and Councilman Andrew Torrez.

In 2020, the tribal government had 293 employees, and about 58 percent of them were members of the tribe.

Population

In April 2008, the Tribal Census Department reported 1,615 enrolled citizens. By 2020, the number grew to 4,696 enrolled citizens of Ysleta del Sur Pueblo.

Economic development

For nearly 40 years, the Ysleta del Sur Pueblo has run its own businesses to help provide jobs for its members and the community in El Paso. These 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 offers live concerts, a restaurant, a café, and bars. It was originally named the Speaking Rock Casino and began offering certain types of games in 2022.

History

The Ysleta del Sur Pueblo is a federally recognized Native American tribe and sovereign nation. The Tigua people founded Ysleta del Sur in 1682 after leaving their homelands due to 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 reached out for help and began working to regain their federal recognition. With support from leaders and scholars, they continued their efforts. In 1987, federal recognition was restored, allowing the tribe to receive services and maintain their cultural traditions once again.