Giving Power To The People
October 13, 2024 by agutting@reviewjournal.com
Filed under Feature
How Shelley Berkley became a proven advocate for Las Vegas’ Black community and a champion for equality.
Shelley Berkley, a longtime champion for equality and opportunity, has made significant contributions to Las Vegas’ Black community over her decades in public service. As a congresswoman representing Nevada’s 1st Congressional District for seven terms, Shelley consistently prioritized the needs of underrepresented communities, working to improve access to healthcare, education, and economic opportunities.
Shelley has been a staunch advocate for accessible and equitable healthcare, which has particularly benefited communities of color. Her strong support for the Affordable Care Act played a crucial role in expanding healthcare access for thousands of Black families in Nevada. During her time in Congress, she also fought to protect Medicare and Medicaid, ensuring that vulnerable populations, including many Black Nevadans, received the healthcare they deserved.
In education, Shelley has supported policies aimed at narrowing the achievement gap. Recognizing that quality education is key to breaking the cycle of poverty, she has worked closely with local leaders to secure federal funding for schools in underserved areas, including those serving predominantly Black students. Her efforts have helped enhance school programs, improve teacher retention, and increase resources for students to succeed.
Shelley’s commitment to justice and equality extends beyond policy. As a public servant, she has always advocated for civil rights and has stood in solidarity with the Black community on issues of police reform, voting rights, and criminal justice reform. She has worked tirelessly to promote policies aimed at reducing racial disparities in the criminal justice system, recognizing that systemic change is essential for a fairer Las Vegas.
Shelley’s support for small businesses has also had a significant impact on Black entrepreneurs in the city. As Las Vegas continues to grow, Shelley has consistently promoted economic development initiatives that prioritize minority-owned businesses, providing them with the tools and resources needed to thrive. Her advocacy has led to more opportunities for Black entrepreneurs to compete in the marketplace and contribute to the economic fabric of Las Vegas.
As she campaigns for mayor, Shelley has made it clear that she will continue to advocate for the Black community. Her vision for Las Vegas includes ensuring that all neighborhoods — regardless of race — have access to safe streets, good schools, affordable housing, and quality jobs. Shelley’s proven leadership, coupled with her commitment to fairness and equality, makes her a powerful voice for all residents of Las Vegas, especially the Black community, which she has served with dedication for years.
Shelley Berkley’s contributions to the Black community are not just promises; they are backed by a long record of action and impact. As mayor, she will continue to work toward a more inclusive and equitable Las Vegas for all.