Our Cultural Heritage
Throughout Casino Arizona and Talking Stick Resort®, you'll find priceless collections of Native American art. We welcome you to experience the beauty and culture of the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community (SRPMIC) here at Casino Arizona and in the Culture Center at Talking Stick Resort. Ensconced in glass, the Cultural Center features native pottery, jewelry and an actual talking stick—a custom piece from which the hotel gets its name. The art displayed in the Cultural Center reflects the Pima and Maricopa ancestry that now forms the SRPMIC. In fact, most of the art included in the Cultural Center was created by members of the SRPMIC. The art collection inside Talking Stick Resort is recognized as the largest collection of contemporary Native American art outside of a museum.
With two distinct backgrounds and cultures, the Community is comprised of two Native American tribes: the Pima, “Akimel O’Odham” (River People) and the Maricopa, “Xalychidom Piipaash” (People who live toward the water). Today, over 10,000 individuals are enrolled tribal members. Comprised of the President, Vice President and seven elected Council members, the Community Council governs the Community.
Approximately 12,000 acres are under cultivation in a variety of crops including cotton, melons, potatoes, onions, broccoli and carrots. Commercial development is reserved along the Community’s western boundary. The majestic Red Mountain can be seen throughout the Community and is located on the eastern boundary. The sight of the mountain symbolizes the home of the Pima and Maricopa people.
The Community proudly owns and operates several successful enterprises including Talking Stick Golf Club, Talking Stick Resort, Salt River Fields, Salt River Devco, Casino Arizona, Salt River Sand and Rock, Phoenix Cement, Saddleback Communications, Salt River Financial Services, and Salt River Landfill.
