I designed this Ysleta Del Sur Pueblo 2025 Year-End Report for the Ysleta del Sur Pueblo (YDSP), a federally recognized Native American tribe in El Paso, Texas. The people are called Tigua, and their native language is Southern Tiwa. YDSP is the oldest community in Texas and the longest-running government in the state since the tribe’s establishment in 1683.
Through historic archival photos as well as images of last year's tribal events, the 2025 Year-End Report honors past Chiefs of the Pueblo, which are known by three familiar names: Cacique, a Spanish loan word; Chief, the English term for the leader of a community; and Taikabede, a Tiwa word meaning “leader of the People.” Regardless of the title used, the position carries profound spiritual, cultural, and community responsibility. The selection of a Taikabede is therefore one of the Pueblo’s most important decisions, entrusted only to individuals who embody leadership, wisdom, humility, and a deep commitment to the Pueblo’s traditions and people.
A Taikabede must be capable of guiding the Pueblo through both opportunity and hardship while remaining grounded in tribal customs, ceremonies, and cultural teachings. Equally important, he must lead with compassion and integrity. The Caciques featured in this Year-End Report exemplified these qualities and served during some of the Pueblo’s most defining moments in history.
In 2025, the Ysleta del Sur Pueblo formally recognized Johnny Hisa as Cacique, following the passing of Cacique Jose G. Sierra Sr., who served from 2017 until August 2025.
The 2025 Year-End Report is dedicated to the Pueblo’s Caciques, whose leadership and stewardship have ensured the continuity of the Ysleta del Sur Pueblo across generations. Through their unwavering dedication, they have preserved and passed forward the Pueblo’s customs, traditions, and history, ensuring that the identity and spirit of the Tigua people remain strong for future generations.
Thanks to Helix Solutions with whom it is always a pleasure to work; UTEP Library Special Collections for the incredible archival photos; Christ Chavez whose gorgeous photos make it easy to create a striking publication; and to Tovar Printing of El Paso, Texas for their expert execution. This is especially notable in the cover's metallic orange foil-stamped sun rays that reflect and shine as one handles the report. Fitting, as The Tigua Tribe (Ysleta del Sur Pueblo) is the oldest continually established Native American community in Texas and known as the People of the Sun.
