Gila River Indian Community Reflects on 2025
January 9, 2026
GRIN Staff
For many Community members, 2025 was a year defined by progress: new buildings rising, infrastructure strengthening, and elders gathering to guide the path ahead. Together, these moments told a larger story — one of a people building with purpose, honoring tradition while preparing the way for future generations.
Honoring Elders: Wisdom at the Center of Progress
Amid the year’s construction and innovation, elders remained at the heart of GRIC’s progress. Throughout 2025, district centers hosted gatherings where elders shared concerns, asked questions, and offered guidance on issues ranging from water and environmental safety to cultural preservation and community well-being.
These conversations were more than meetings, they were reminders that every new building, every pipeline, and every solar panel rests on the foundation of generations who carried the Community forward. Their voices shaped the year’s priorities and ensured that progress remained grounded in cultural values. The Gila River Indian Community closed out 2025 with determination and major achievement and a renewed sense of unity, purpose, and momentum. Across all seven districts, members witnessed historic milestones in water stewardship, infrastructure, cultural preservation, and youth leadership, each one reinforcing the Community’s long standing commitment to sovereignty and collective wellbeing.
“This year reminded us that when we lead with our values, we lead with strength,” Gov. Stephen Roe Lewis said during a December gathering. “Our progress in 2025 reflects generations of perseverance and the vision of our elders and youth alike.”
Innovation on the Horizon: Infrastructure & Energy
One of the most celebrated achievements of the year came on Dec. 11, when GRIC and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers unveiled the nation’s first solar over canal project. The installation, stretching across a section of the Community’s canal system, drew national attention for its dual impact: reducing water loss and generating clean, renewable energy.
The ribbon cutting ceremony brought together tribal leaders, engineers, and community members. “This project shows what’s possible when innovation is guided by cultural responsibility,” Lt. Gov. Regina Antone said. “We’re protecting our water while creating energy for future generations.”
The project also positioned GRIC as a national model for climate resilient infrastructure, a theme that echoed throughout the year.
Meanwhile, Gila River Telecommunications, Inc. (GRTI) continued its multi year expansion of high speed internet, reaching 100% fiber to home coverage in District 4. The upgrade supported the effort to bring high‑speed internet access to all GRIC households.
Water Stewardship: Honoring a Legacy, Shaping a Future.
In 2025, the Community marked the 21st anniversary of the 2004 Water Rights Settlement, one of the largest tribal water settlements in U.S. history. The anniversary served as both a celebration and a reminder of the decades long struggle to reclaim water that had been diverted away from the Community for generations.
“Our water is our identity,” said Community Council Representative Jeanette Blasingim, Distric 7, during a commemorative reflection. “The settlement wasn’t just a legal victory — it was a restoration of who we are as O’odham and Pee Posh people.”
The year also saw GRIC take a leading role in regional water policy. In partnership with the Colorado River Indian Tribes and the Central Arizona Water Conservation District, the Community signed a cooperative agreement to address drought, shortages, and long term river management. The pact represented a rare moment of unity in a region often divided by water politics.
Community & Public Safety
Public safety remained a central focus in 2025. In the spring, hundreds of Community members marched from the Mul Chu Tha Fairgrounds to the Governance Center, calling attention to unsolved cases and advocating for stronger safety measures.
“We walked for our loved ones, for justice, and for healing,” said marcher and District 5 resident Angela Pablo. “Our voices matter, and we’re not giving up.”
The Community Council also continued discussions on a proposed banishment/disenrollment ordinance aimed at addressing violent crime. The proposal sparked thoughtful debate across districts, with members weighing accountability, safety, and cultural values.
Youth Leadership & Cultural Strength.
Youth leadership flourished in 2025 as a new cohort of the Gila River Youth Council took their oaths of office, continuing GRIC’s tradition of empowering young voices in governance and community service.
“Our youth aren’t just preparing to lead someday — they’re leading right now,” said Youth Council Advisor Victoria Quintero.
Cultural events also brought the Community together. Meanwhile, District 6 and District 3 hosted a high energy youth basketball clinic featuring coaches from the Phoenix Suns and Mercury, which drew a large turnout and highlighted the Community’s commitment to youth wellness.
Health, Governance & National Recognition
Gila River Health Care celebrated 30 years of tribal self governance, marking three decades of expanding services, improving access, and strengthening culturally grounded care.
“We’ve grown from a small clinic system into a comprehensive healthcare network,” said Anthony J. Santiago, M.D, Gila River Health Care, Chief Executive Officer. “And we’ve done it by listening to our Community.”
Gov. Lewis also received national recognition for GRIC’s leadership in renewable energy and climate resilient infrastructure, further elevating the Community’s profile on the national stage.
Preserving Memory: Stewardship of the Rivers Internment Site
Throughout 2025, national media highlighted GRIC’s careful stewardship of the former Rivers Relocation Center, the WWII Japanese American incarceration site located on Community land. GRIC continued to protect the site from trespassing and unauthorized exploration, emphasizing the importance of honoring the memory of those who suffered there.
“This land holds painful stories, and we protect it out of respect,” said Cultural Resource Management Program staff member.
“It’s not a tourist site — it’s a place of remembrance.”
Looking Ahead
As 2025 ended, the Community reflected on a year defined by resilience, innovation, and unity. Whether advancing renewable energy, strengthening cultural traditions, or advocating for justice, the Gila River Indian Community continued to lead with purpose.
“Our strength comes from our people,” Governor Lewis said. “And as long as we move forward together, there is nothing we cannot accomplish.”