User:Tyler0913/Soboba Band of Luiseňo Indians

June 18th, 1883, the Soboba reservation was established by the United States Government in San Jacinto, California. The community has since built and become very successful. Many customs have changed.

Discovery
The Luiseňo Indians were discovered by European missionaries, and allowed for them to come through their community because of their literacy abilities. Journalists passed through the San Jacinto valley where the Luiseňo were settled and recorded much of their culture. These journalists and missionaries were apart of the Juan Bautista de Anza expedition. California was still under Mexico's control at this time. California missionaries took the land and declared it theirs for a cattle ranch. "Proceeding in the same direction, we stopped at Jaguara, so called by the natives, but by our people San Jacinto . This is the rancho for the cattle of San Luis Rey, distant from Temecula about eleven or twelve leagues." Stated by Fr. Jose Sanchez. The reservation given back to the Luiseňo after the United States Government took control of California. An Executive Order established the Soboba reservation June 19th 1883.

Community
The Members of the Soboba Band of Lusieno Indians have build a self-sustaining community. They worked their way from agriculture to entertainment. Because of their businesses that they created, the economy of Soboba is strong. They have been able to build their own schools, including youth education as well as a community college. They've also created non-profit organizations and charity with the money they've made from all of their business.

Agriculture
Soboba began their economy with agriculture. Over time, they developed the land and the land surrounding the reservation. Soboba started with the apricot industry. Because the climate in California was right, they began by growing crops. The members of the tribe worked their way outside of their own community and started working in the citrus industry. This agricultural industry allowed them to build their economy and expand.

Soboba Casino
Soboba established a casino to earn profit. Their advantage was given to them because of California gambling laws. They were able to operate a casino as long as it stayed on their reservation. This casino is a premier spot in California for many. The location of the casino is another great advantage because it is located about 160 miles outside of Los Angeles, California. Many people from all over California come to the casino. Soboba Casino is the biggest source of income for the tribe, and continues to grow everyday.

Entertainment attractions
Soboba has also developed a country club, which hosts golf tournaments and has a condominium resort. This resort opened May of 2008 and holds the Soboba Classic, which is a major golf tournament to many in California. This is another great source of income to the tribe.

Membership
Membership of the tribe is determined only by birth. Although a member is not required to live or be born the reservation, they still must be a decedent of another member. Being a member of the trible entitles one to voting rights for the government of the tribe.

Hierarchy
The governent is set up by 5 tribal members. The head Chairman (formerly known as the chief) is put into the highest position of power by a popular vote of other member from the tribe. The vice chairwoman, secretary, treasurer, and member at large are put into position by demand of the elected council. The government decides business decisions and laws of the Soboba reservation. Elections are held like general elections in the United States, and absentee ballots are available upon prior approval.