The Heart of the Matter: Filipino Town’s Bright Horizon
In the heart of Las Vegas, Rozita V. Lee’s voice trembles with pride as she taps her chest, a gesture that seems to say, It’s all right here. For Lee, a revered Filipino-American advocate, the effort to create “Filipino Town” is more than a project—it’s a legacy. Anchored by a thriving corridor on Maryland Parkway, the proposed district promises to celebrate the rich heritage of a community that has long been an integral thread in Nevada’s cultural tapestry. “We have beautiful culture. We have beautiful people,” Lee says, her words a reflection of the Filipino spirit that has shaped her journey.
The vision for Filipino Town is not just about honoring history; it’s about carving a vibrant future. From the sizzling sounds of Istorya restaurant’s kitchen to the bustling aisles of Seafood City supermarket, the proposed district brims with life and possibility. More than 20 plus Filipino-owned businesses line the 1.2-mile stretch, with the Boulevard Mall serving as a cultural hub where tradition meets innovation.
Yet, Filipino Town is more than a collection of businesses—it’s a testament to decades of resilience and unity. Filipino-Americans in Clark County have shaped the city’s health care systems, educational institutions, and even its iconic neon skyline. From designing dazzling casino signs to leading in public service, this community has quietly yet powerfully left its mark. Lee, now 90, has witnessed it all, from mingling with early settlers in Boyd’s gaming California Hotel, to championing Asian-American representation on national advisory boards. She views this cultural district as the natural next chapter in a story that has been generations in the making.
As county commissioners deliberate, the excitement among supporters is palpable. Dressed in traditional Filipiniana attire, they fill hearing rooms with hopeful energy, their cheers underscoring the community’s readiness for recognition. For Lee, Filipino Town is a divine calling—a “season for Filipinos,” as she puts it. In her words and actions, she embodies the spirit of her community: proud, united, and ready to leave an indelible mark on Las Vegas and beyond.
(Source: Nevada Globe | Las Vegas Journal | AsAm News)
