WASHINGTON, D.C. – Assistant Secretary – Indian Affairs Kevin K. Washburn today issued the following statement on the passing of Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana Chairman Earl J. Barbry Sr.:
"Having given a lifetime of dedication and distinguished service to the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana, Chairman Barbry will long be remembered as one of the great visionary and courageous leaders Indian Country has produced throughout history. He was a quiet and respectful man full of action who willingly shouldered the weight of responsible leadership, and worked tirelessly over the years to improve the lives of his people.
“As one of Indian Country’s longest serving elected tribal leaders, he successfully represented the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe at the highest levels of national American Indian discourse and policymaking, but did not forget the importance of family and tradition. His strong, faithful advocacy for tribal sovereignty and self-determination was reflected in his fight for and winning of federal recognition status for the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe.
“Thanks to his strong drive to build the future of the Tunica-Biloxi people, Chairman Barbry has left as his legacy a strong community that can be proud of its accomplishments and progress. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Barbry Family and the Tunica-Biloxi community.”
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