An LGBTQ+ Look at Las Vegas
Las Vegas is an ever-changing city, constantly building up, tearing down, transforming and moving forward, so it's no wonder that members of the LGBTQ+ community have always gravitated towards a place built on the fundamentals of flamboyant performance, filled with eccentric people of all kinds.
A Colorful History in a Dark Past
Many world famous LGBTQ+ performers got their start in Las Vegas before the rest of the world was ready for them. Nevada's queer population had long faced an "anti-sodomy law" for over 100 years, and were restricted to secret meetings in well-known safe spaces — even after the reform brought around by Stonewall, where pioneers of progress such as Kenny Kerr of Boylesque, one of the longest-running and most popular stage production in Las Vegas' rich history, remember having been.
Nevada had a slow start, stumped by harsh laws and horrid words from closed-minded politicians, but once the reformation of the state began, it couldn't be stopped. From Gay Rodeos to the formation of Human Rights groups, soon politicians had to succumb to pressure from the rest of the country. It is important to remember, though, that despite the positivity, pure strength and bravery of the queer community of Las Vegas, the journey was filled with tragedy and sacrifice.
The 1990s and 2000s
The anti-sodomy law was finally repealed in 1993, the same year as a Gay and Lesbian community center opened, and two years after the first Coming Out Day celebration in Las Vegas. In '97, Las Vegas held its first pride parade, signaling a newfound refusal to hide, that the only thing they fear is the unknown — so now, it was time to introduce them to a whole new world. In 2003, Nevada's first openly gay official was elected, followed by the first openly gay senator in 2008. In 2009, same sex marriage was legalised (and laws on heterosexual marriages were also relaxed). Las Vegas is more vibrant now that some of the most interesting individuals on this side of the Mississippi are allowed to show their true colors.
Present Times
Las Vegas has become a top destination for LGBTQ+ travel, not only thanks to its one-of-a-kind pride festival. It has even become a more sought-after place to live after it became the only place where discussing sexual orientation in employment was outlawed. The nightlife is incredible: gay and lesbian bars are in abundance, and world-class drag performance grace otherworldly clubs.
Of course Las Vegas is most known for its gambling opportunities, and fear not, gay-friendly casinos are not hard to find. If you're not a typical gambler and are making Las Vegas plans, be sure to brush up on your skills online. You can easily find safe online casinos to play on Top10 Casino sites, which recommends casinos from the US, UK, and anywhere else future Las Vegas holidayers might be. Keep an eye out for online casinos where you don't have to play with real money, if you want a risk-free practice experience.
If you're looking for an LGBTQ+ safe city, which is known for its open-mindedness and features a proper gay scene rife with attractions catered specifically towards members of the community, Las Vegas is a great choice.