The panel series, "We Need To Talk: Conversations on Racism for a More Resilient Las Vegas," returns April 9 for a discussion on being queer in Las Vegas. The event is scheduled for 2:30 p.m. inside the Greenspun Hall Auditorium on UNLV's campus. It will also be livestreamed.
We Need To Talk was created in 2020 by the UNLV Libraries and the Greenspun College of Urban Affairs to foster discussions and seek solutions for a more inclusive society.
The event will focus on how anti-trans, anti-drag and book banning legislation throughout the nation has impacted life in Las Vegas. A diverse panel of experts will also share their experiences on LGBTQ+ life and discuss issues the queer community is facing.
Kevin Sebastian, teaching and learning librarian for online education in UNLV Libraries, will moderate the discussion. Panelists include:
- Antioco Carrillo (‘00 & ‘03, Social Work), executive director, Aid for AIDS of Nevada
- Laura Hernandez, Director of Youth and Senior Programs, The LGBTQIA+ Center of Southern Nevada
- AJ Huth, director of public affairs & civic engagement, The LGBTQIA+ Center of Southern Nevada
- Dennis McBride (‘77 & ‘82), Las Vegas queer historian
- Lukas Serrano, HIV patient manager, The LGBTQIA+ Center of Southern Nevada
Event Details
“We Need to Talk About Being Queer in Las Vegas,” is scheduled from 2:30 to 4 p.m. on April 9 at UNLV’s Greenspun Hall Auditorium, First Floor. It will also be livestreamed on the UNLV Libraries' website.
This discussion is also being co-sponsored by the LGBTQIA+ Center of Southern Nevada.
The Identity Center, a traveling, socially-engaged vibrant art activity created by artist and activist Denise R. Duarte, will also be on display in the Greenspun Hall Lobby from 1-4:30 p.m. The interactive activity is designed to provide affirmation within the LGBTQ+ population while encouraging the general (cisgender and straight) population exploration of the spectrum of humanity's existence, hopefully leading to acceptance coupled with compassion.
About the Series
“We Need to Talk” is an educational series which examines how multiple aspects of systemic racism impact our community. The goal is to propose steps communities and individuals can take to affect positive change. The series features Southern Nevada community members, UNLV alumni, and researchers surrounding issues of race and systemic racism. Archived episodes and a resource guide for educators are available on the UNLV Libraries website.
