El Dorado County (Jan 5, 2025) – The Shingle Springs Band of Miwok Indians, proprietors of Red Hawk Casino in Placerville, have recently made significant strides in reclaiming their ancestral lands in the Sacramento region. These efforts mark a profound reconnection with their indigenous heritage.
In April 2024, the tribe purchased a nearly two-acre parcel at 301 Capitol Mall in downtown Sacramento, a site near their ancestral village of Pusúune. This acquisition, from CalPERS, represents a symbolic reclamation of their history. The tribe expressed that by reacquiring their ancestral lands, they are reclaiming their history, traditions, and a deeper connection to their ancestors.
Chairwoman Regina Cuellar, who has been involved in tribal leadership for over a decade, has been instrumental in these initiatives. Under her guidance, the tribe has doubled its land base, paving the way for much-needed housing for tribal members. Additionally, the tribe has paid off all debt on Red Hawk Resort + Casino and has expanded its facilities to include a hotel and entertainment center.
Beyond land acquisitions, Chairwoman Cuellar actively participates in broader regional and state initiatives. She serves on the Greater Sacramento Economic Council’s Board of Directors, representing tribal interests in wider economic discussions.
Her leadership reflects a commitment to balancing economic development with cultural preservation.
The tribe’s economic ventures, particularly Red Hawk Casino, have been pivotal in funding these initiatives. The casino’s success has enabled the tribe to reinvest in its community, including constructing homes for tribal members and expanding healthcare services through the Shingle Springs Health & Wellness Center, which offers comprehensive health services for both Native and non-Native individuals.
As the Shingle Springs Band of Miwok Indians continues to reclaim their ancestral lands and strengthen their community, they are writing a new chapter in their history—one that honors their past while building a sustainable future for generations to come.
What are your thoughts on the tribe’s recent land acquisitions and their impact on the local community?
