Black Voters in Nevada Rally for Kamala Harris as She Aims to Make History

In Las Vegas’ historic Westside community, Black voters are coming together to support Kamala Harris, excited by the possibility of her making history. This neighborhood, known for standing up against racial injustice, is once again taking action, this time by rallying voters.

The Westside has a rich history of fighting for civil rights. In 1955, The Moulin Rouge, the country’s first racially integrated casino, opened here, welcoming Black entertainers like Sammy Davis Jr. and Ella Fitzgerald. They weren’t just allowed to perform but also to enjoy the casino’s activities, which was rare back then. Today, the community still holds on to that passion for social change, now focused on voting.

According to Data USA, Nevada’s Black population is small, only 11% of the state’s total. However, most Black Nevadans live in Las Vegas, where they hope to play a key role in turning the state blue in the upcoming election.

Campaign organizers for Kamala Harris and her running mate, Tim Walz, say the excitement for this election is unlike anything they’ve seen before. Ishmael Carroll, a regional political director for Black voter outreach, described it as “pandemonium.”

“It’s been crazy. I’m getting flooded with calls, texts, and emails—everyone is excited,” Carroll told The Guardian. “In past elections, I had to go looking for people. Now, they’re reaching out to me first thing in the morning and late at night, asking, ‘How can I help? How can I get involved?’ They know this is an important moment in history.”

Lya Harvey, a first-time volunteer, said she’s getting involved because of Harris’ genuine nature. “I’ve never been big on politics, but with what’s going on right now between the two parties, I feel like stepping up is important,” Harvey shared. “Kamala Harris seems like she truly cares about people, and as a Black woman myself, I feel like she understands it’s about more than just being a politician.”

Las Vegas is known for its diversity, a trait that many voters see reflected in Kamala Harris and Tim Walz. Harris hopes to keep Nevada in the Democrats’ column, but current polls show a tight race, with Harris and Trump neck and neck, according to The Hill.

Daniele Monroe-Moreno, a Nevada assemblywoman and chair of the state Democratic Party, emphasized the importance of the community working together. “When I talk about ‘the community,’ I mean all of us, because it takes everyone working together for a better future,” she said. “People are excited about Kamala Harris because she and Tim Walz feel relatable, like someone you know, someone you can personally connect with.”

Local businesses are also encouraging voter participation. Oasis, a Black-owned restaurant in the area, hosts “Black Voice of Las Vegas” events, encouraging the community to get involved. But the owner, Terry Adams, says it’s not just for Black voices.

“This is for everyone,” Adams said. “It’s about the principles of America, and that’s what we’re all fighting for.”

As the election approaches, the Black community in Las Vegas is more energized than ever, hopeful that their efforts will help Kamala Harris make history.