Speakers

Johnny Hernandez, Jr. serves as the Vice Chairman of the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians' Tribal Council. A direct descendant of Santos Manuel for whom the Tribe is named, Johnny oversees the Tribe’s operations, ensuring the enforcement of laws and protection of Tribal interests. His leadership is instrumental in preserving the Tribe’s support for education and maintaining the Tribe's traditions, promoting a self-sustaining community, and driving economic growth. Since 2016, Johnny has served as an elected Tribal leader with a passion for education and for inspiring the next generation of leaders. Among business leaders and in the gaming industry, Johnny is recognized as a strong advocate for ensuring Native American tribes maintain their hard-won gaming exclusivity and sovereign rights in California.