Delivering a powerful rebuke to the alarming rise in hate crimes and divisive rhetoric in recent years, SEIU 1107 hosted the 2023 “Communities United Multicultural Festival” to celebrate diversity and the right to vote. The event was held as part of our union's ongoing commitment to diversity, civic engagement, voter participation and understanding across racial and identity lines.
Over 100 partners helped to coordinate the festival, including major unions, companies and grassroots organizations from the Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander; Black; Latino; indigenous and LGBTQ+ communities.
The 2023 celebration took on even more urgency as Nevadans confronted soaring hate crimes, Clark County School District police brutality against Black students; and increasingly hostile rhetoric against the rights of women, communities of color and LGBTQ+ people in recent years.
The 2023 celebration took on even more urgency as Nevadans confronted soaring hate crimes, Clark County School District police brutality against Black students; and increasingly hostile rhetoric against the rights of women, communities of color and LGBTQ+ people in recent years.
"We live in a country that celebrates diversity and unity, and it's crucial that we remember that,” said Gloria T. Caoile, co-founder of the National Federation of Filipino American Associations. “America's strength lies in its open arms that welcome people from all walks of life. Our unique stories and backgrounds only add to the rich tapestry of our nation. People of color, immigrants, and LGBTQ+ individuals are integral threads in the fabric of our communities, weaving in their contributions every day to help Nevada flourish. Our Communities United Multicultural Festival serves as a beacon of recognition and respect for these diverse contributions, sending a resounding message of unity."
Michelle Maese, President of SEIU Local 1107 noted the importance of bringing Nevadans together as the state gears up for another important election in 2024.
Our Communities United Multicultural Festival is occurring one year out from historic elections and intends to motivate people to vote at unprecedented levels, especially union members, youth and people of color,” said Maese. “Nevada is one of the most critical battleground states in the nation, with elections next year for Congressional offices, State Senate and Assembly, the courts, school board, Board of Regents, mayor and city council, in addition to the presidency and multiple ballot measures. We're declaring that Nevadans refuse to fall for the politics of division and are instead uniting around our shared values.”