The City of North Las Vegas’ new Mayor, Pamela Goynes-Brown officially takes office today, becoming the first black Mayor in Nevada history.
Goynes-Brown, a longtime educator turned public servant, previously served as Councilwoman of North Las Vegas’ Ward 2 and was the first female African American Councilwoman in her previous role. She also was the first female African American Mayor Pro-Tempore, having served in that role twice. Goynes-Brown’s recent election as Mayor continues her streak of breaking barriers.
After referencing records via the University of Nevada Las Vegas (UNLV) School of Public Policy, the UNLV Oral History Research Center and relevant municipal leadership organizations, Goynes-Brown’s victory sets a new precedent in Nevada's 158-year history and the approximately 400 mayoral elections of the State's 19 incorporated cities over that time.
Goynes-Brown leads the charge for the City of North Las Vegas, the third largest municipality in Nevada and one of the largest minority-majority cities in America. “Why has it taken so long?” Mayor Goynes-Brown asked. “I don't know, but I know it is happening right now and that is what's important - I’m so proud that the City of North Las Vegas has once again been the leader in making huge positive strides for our state and residents.”
“It is an incredible honor to serve the constituents of the City of North Las Vegas, one of the most diverse cities in America,” Goynes-Brown continued. “To set the stage for young boys and girls in North Las Vegas, to see themselves represented from the Mayor’s seat to our Executive offices to the Team Members who serve our community each day, I believe the City of North Las Vegas embodies the beautifully diverse future of this country and I am honored to serve as Mayor.”
The City of North Las Vegas was the first municipality in the state to formally recognize June 19 as the Juneteenth holiday when the City Council passed Resolution 2665 in June 2021. That October, the North Las Vegas City Council approved updated contracts with employee bargaining units to add Juneteenth as an official City holiday and close City facilities in recognition. The City of North Las Vegas currently has a bill at the State Legislature proposing to make Juneteenth a State Holiday, as well as a bill proposing to allow people who are legally authorized to work in the United States to become peace officers, removing the requirement that they be a U.S. citizen.
“We must continue to call out institutional racism. We must continue to work to bring equity to all aspects of government. I look forward to working to continue to make strides for our community and for the people of color who call it home,” said Mayor Goynes-Brown. “As I take office, the City of North Las Vegas will continue to advocate and prioritize our diverse residents and their needs.”
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