Communities United: Multicultural Festival Celebrates Diversity and Fights Hate Crimes
Las Vegas was the vibrant host city for the second annual Communities United Multicultural Festival, a celebration of diversity and unity. The event brought together organizations representing the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI), Black, Latino, Indigenous, and LGBTQ+ communities, along with the Service Employees International Union and other local groups. On Saturday, September 9, 2023, hundreds of attendees gathered at the Clark County Government Center’s outdoor amphitheater to promote Nevada’s multiculturalism, combat the increasing number of hate crimes, and offer resources for voting and citizenship.
The festival transformed the amphitheater into a colorful and lively space with canopy tents, food trucks, and music representing various cultures. More than 100 partner organizations showcased their work and contributed to the vibrant atmosphere. Visitors were treated to a plethora of culturally-themed merchandise, from jewelry and handbags to toothbrushes featuring artwork depicting children of diverse ethnic backgrounds.
One highlight of the festival was the presence of the Las Vegas Native Youth Dancers. As the first group to perform on Saturday night, they shared the beauty of Native American culture with the audience. It was an important moment for the group, as Native American culture is often overlooked and not given the recognition it deserves. Being invited to perform at the festival was a significant step towards raising awareness and appreciation for their traditions.
The Communities United Multicultural Festival not only celebrated diversity but also provided valuable resources for attendees. Voter registration, policy education, and immigration assistance were among the services offered. Staff members were on hand to help individuals register to vote, and multiple booths offered education on state policies and their impact on different communities. By integrating these resources into the festivities, the organizers aimed to empower individuals to make their voices heard and take action.
Several participating organizations, such as the Service Employees International Union 1107 and the National Federation of Filipino American Associations, were also involved in an anti-Asian hate rally earlier in the year. The success of this year’s festival in bringing together organizations committed to celebrating diversity and standing against hate was seen as a powerful message. Michelle Meise, president of the Service Employees International Union 1107, expressed her satisfaction with the event’s success, highlighting the unity and resilience of the community.
The Communities United Multicultural Festival served as a platform for different communities to come together, defy negativity, and celebrate their shared values. Embedded within the festivities was a call to action, urging individuals to engage with the important upcoming elections and be actively involved in shaping the future of their communities. Through unity and collaboration, the diverse communities of Nevada prove that they can work together to make a positive impact and create a stronger, more inclusive society.
