Welcome
to the Fall issue of the Silver State Equality newsletter.
As Nevadans, we remain fortunate to live in a state where LGBTQ+ rights are respected. But make no mistake— the Trump administration, extremist politicians at the federal and state levels, and even members of the U.S. Supreme Court are determined to roll back the progress we’ve made.
Silver State Equality is not standing alone. We’re building coalitions with immigrant rights advocates, women’s organizations, racial justice leaders, educators, healthcare providers, faith leaders, voting rights defenders, and so many more who know that equality and democracy itself are on the line.
And as we prepare for 2026—a pivotal election year—the gloves are off. We have both the opportunity and responsibility to hold elected leaders accountable, to demand they deliver on their promises, and to ensure that those who stand in the way of equality do not have the power to turn back the clock.
This is our moment to be inspired, to organize, and to fight for a Nevada and a country that is healthy, just, and fully equal for all LGBTQ+ people. The fights ahead will not be easy, but together, we are ready.
André C. Wade
State Director
Silver State Equality Pronouns: he/him/his
Second Annual LGBTQ+ Leadership Academy, Oct. 25-26
As part of our commitment to building the bench of LGBTQ+ champions and elected leaders at all levels of government, Silver State Equality will host its second annual Nevada LGBTQ+ Leadership Academy in Southern Nevada, Oct. 25-26.
The session includes candidate and campaign training to equip LGBTQ+ Nevadans with a deeper understanding of the state’s political system, build the skills needed to seek elected office and run successful campaigns, and learn about appointed opportunities with agency boards and commissions.
The deadline to submit an application is October 1, 2025.
“Now more than ever, we need LGBTQ+ persons, allies and champions to serve in statewide offices and key legislative bodies, including the State Senate and State House, as well as county and city level seats. While Nevada still remains one of the best places to live for LGBTQ+ persons, protections are being eroded and rolled back in the current political climate. It’s imperative we work within the system to enact change and protect rights that deliver fair lived equality for all.”
André C. Wade, State Director for Silver State Equality
Silver State Equality Luncheon
On June 25, 2025, Silver State Equality hosted our annual Equality Luncheon at Tuscany Suites and Casino, sponsored by Charter Communications, Southwest Gas, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Equality Federation and Progressive Alliance of Nevada (PLAN). Nearly 100 people were in attendance, including former Nevada Supreme Court Justice Miriam Shearing, State Senator Melanie Scheible, Assemblymember Brittany Miller, and former State Senator David Parks.
It was an honor to host award-winning black non-binary writer, author and executive producer, George M. Johnson, as our keynote speaker. They captivated
attendees with stories from their youth and advocacy against the book bans plaguing schools and libraries. Johnson is the author of numerous books and memoirs, including the New York Times Bestselling Young Adult memoir, All Boys Aren’t Blue, discussing their adolescence growing up as a young Black Queer boy in New Jersey. Johnson’s books hold the distinction of being the most banned in the country.
This program is made possible with generous support from the NV Energy Foundation.
OCTOBER 10
2025 LAS VEGAS PRIDE PARADE
Silver State Equality is a proud supporter of the annual Las Vegas PRIDE Night Parade in downtown Las Vegas.
Join us for this annual glamorous, glittering spectacle on October 10. The Parade Main Stage is located at the intersection of 4th Street and Bridger Avenue. There will be beverage stations, food trucks and exhibitors at the Block Party on 4th Street.The Parade Pre-Show begins at 6pm leading up to the start of the parade at 7pm.
If you’d like to walk with Silver State Equality, email programs@silverstateequality.org.
OCTOBER 18
2025 LAS VEGAS PRIDE FESTIVAL
Las Vegas Pride will host its annual community festival at Desert Breeze Events Center, 8455 Kids Zone Parkway, Las Vegas, 89147 on Saturday, Oct. 18 from 3 to 10 p.m.
The event features entertainment, exhibitors, food, art, DJs and community organizations. Everyone is welcome: LGBTQIA+ families, couples, and singles, along with their friends and straight allies.
NOVEMBER 12
SILVER STATE EQUALITY AWARDS
Join us on Wednesday, November 12, 2025 at KAOS at The Palms for the annual Silver State Equality Awards.
This year, we will be honoring actress, restaurateur, designer, TV personality, author and humanitarian, Lisa Vanderpump with our Equality Visibility Award. Former Las Vegas Mayor, business leader and philanthropist Jan Jones Blackhurst will be receiving our Ally Leadership Award. This year’s Community Leadership Award will be presented to the LGBTQ+ Center of Southern Nevada. Once again, attendees will be entertained by emcee Coco Montrese, of RuPaul’s Drag Race fame. Ticket and sponsorship information is available here
