EL PASO, Texas — The Ysleta Del Sur Pueblo community is in mourning following the death of its respected tribal leader, Cacique Jose Sierra Sr. On Saturday morning, August 16, 2025, Speaking Rock Entertainment Center announced via social media that all Ysleta Del Sur Pueblo facilities, including Speaking Rock, would be closed in his honor.
In a heartfelt post, the Pueblo shared the somber news of the passing of “our beloved Cacique Jose Sierra Sr.,” marking a moment of collective grief for the Tigua people and the greater El Paso community. His death represents the loss of a guiding figure who carried with him not only the responsibilities of leadership but also the wisdom, traditions, and cultural legacy of the Pueblo.
The title of Cacique holds profound significance within Ysleta Del Sur Pueblo, embodying spiritual, cultural, and community leadership. For decades, Jose Sierra Sr. faithfully served his people with dignity, ensuring that traditions were preserved, values were passed down, and the Pueblo remained united through times of both challenge and progress. His leadership was deeply respected, and his presence carried a sense of strength, continuity, and connection to the Pueblo’s ancestral roots.
Community members remember Cacique Sierra Sr. as a leader who cared deeply about the well-being of his people, balancing tradition with the evolving needs of the present. Under his leadership, the Pueblo continued to advocate for sovereignty, cultural preservation, and opportunities for future generations.
The closure of Speaking Rock and all Pueblo facilities serves not only as a sign of respect but also as a moment of pause for the entire community to reflect on the immense contributions of Cacique Sierra Sr. Tribespeople and community members are expected to come together in mourning, prayer, and remembrance in the days ahead, honoring his life and the path he helped shape for the Pueblo.
The loss of Cacique Jose Sierra Sr. will be felt for years to come, as his wisdom, guidance, and unwavering dedication leave a void that cannot easily be filled. Yet, his legacy will continue to live on in the traditions he upheld, the community he guided, and the cultural pride he inspired in future generations.
As the Pueblo grieves, messages of condolences and solidarity are pouring in from across El Paso and beyond, recognizing the profound impact Cacique Sierra Sr. had not only on the Ysleta Del Sur Pueblo but also on the broader region.
The Pueblo has not yet announced details regarding memorial services or ceremonies, but it is clear that his passing marks the end of an era — one that will be remembered with reverence, respect, and gratitude.
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