In the quiet of a weekday morning inside the iconic Gipsy Nightclub—before the music, the lights, and the crowds—newly elected Las Vegas Mayor Shelley Berkley joined QVegas Magazine publishers Russ White and Garrett Pattiani for an honest, far-reaching conversation. It was just the three of us in the historic Fruit Loop venue, a space that has long stood as a symbol of LGBTQ+ resilience and nightlife in Las Vegas. The setting was fitting for a discussion that touched on everything from public policy and personal legacy to the enduring importance of safe, inclusive spaces.

A lifelong Las Vegan and seasoned public servant, Berkley is back in office with a mission: to serve the city she calls home. Her journey spans decades—from the Nevada State Assembly to the U.S. House of Representatives, and most recently, nearly a decade in higher education leadership. Now, as mayor, she is laser-focused on the future of Las Vegas.

A Legacy of Survival and Gratitude

Asked what inspired her return to public service, Berkley reflected on her roots. "I'm the granddaughter of immigrants who fled Europe to escape the Holocaust," she said. "My mother’s side came from Greece, and my father’s from the Russia-Poland border. Entire communities were erased. My family survived because they were already in the U.S. by the time war broke out."

Her grandparents arrived in America without money or English, but they had hope. "They believed their children and grandchildren would have a better life—and they were right. Public service has always been my way of giving back to the country that saved us."

Picking Up the Torch Again

After losing a hard-fought U.S. Senate race, Berkley stepped away from politics—temporarily. "I was heartbroken," she admitted. "You pour everything into a campaign, and when it ends in defeat, it’s hard to know what’s next."

She took a position at Touro University as CEO and Senior Provost—a role far outside her previous political life. "I didn’t know if I’d last a week. I ended up staying for 9.5 years." The role gave her renewed purpose, and when it ended, she found herself asking, “What now?”

The answer came naturally. “I love Las Vegas. Mayor Goodman was termed out. And I thought: what an honor it would be to serve as mayor of my hometown.”

Experience Meets Evolution

Berkley brings deep political experience to City Hall, but says her leadership style has evolved. "In my early years, I thought being the loudest voice in the room was the key to getting things done. I've since learned that listening, collaborating, and building consensus are far more effective."

This refined approach is already shaping her administration. "I'm working harder than ever—12-hour days, 7 days a week—but it’s fulfilling. I feel like I’m exactly where I’m meant to be."

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion—Non-Negotiable Values

QVegas recently launched a new editorial series called DEI and the Road Ahead, and Mayor Berkley’s views align strongly with that mission. "DEI is not a buzzword—it’s essential. A society that excludes people based on race, gender identity, or background misses out on enormous potential."

At Touro, she saw this first-hand. “I’d look out at our incoming class of medical students and see a reflection of America—diverse, ambitious, and ready to lead. That’s the future we should all be investing in."

She added: "I don’t understand the backlash against DEI. Diversity is what we are. Equity ensures fairness. Inclusion is basic decency. It benefits everyone."

The Fruit Loop: A Living Piece of LGBTQ+ History

Located in one of the city’s most enduring LGBTQ+ neighborhoods, Gipsy and the surrounding Fruit Loop have deep historical roots. We asked Berkley what role she sees these spaces playing in the city’s future.

“They're vital," she said. "These are safe spaces, cultural spaces. They’ve been here through it all—AIDS, protests, celebrations. They deserve recognition and protection."

She sees potential for these historic venues to be elevated in tourism planning, urban development, and cultural preservation. "Everyone is welcome in Las Vegas. Everyone should feel seen, respected, and celebrated."

Protecting LGBTQ+ Rights in an Uncertain Political Climate

"I remember the AIDS crisis. I was in the State Assembly. We lost an entire generation of friends, artists, activists," Berkley recalled, her voice heavy with emotion. "Then came marriage equality. It felt like the culmination of so many fights. But now, I’m worried. We thought Roe v. Wade was permanent. It wasn’t."

She praised Nevada for enshrining marriage equality in the state constitution, but warned against complacency. "Federal pressure is real. What if funding is  threatened? What if new legislation tries to undo state protections? I have to be ready to defend this community."

Berkley recounted how Clark County Sheriff McMahill recently announced that Metro police would not cooperate with federal immigration enforcement— something she supports. "They already have too much on their plate. I don’t want to live in a city where local police are rounding up undocumented families." The same philosophy applies to LGBTQ+ rights. "I believe in privacy. In dignity. What consenting adults do isn’t the government’s business. And if Washington turns its back on that idea, then it’s up to cities like Las Vegas to stand firm."

LGBTQ+ Trailblazers Who Paved the Way

When asked about figures who’ve shaped Las Vegas’ LGBTQ+ history, Berkley didn’t hesitate. “Dr. Jerry Cade, Dr. Mel Pohl, Bob Forbuss—these were titans. They weren’t just advocates; they were friends, mentors, leaders.”

She recalled early fundraisers held in their homes and reflected on the losses the community suffered during the height of the AIDS crisis. “We can’t forget them. We have to build on what they started.”

Entertainers, Icons, and Personal Moments

From Liberace in a hardware store to receiving artwork from Siegfried and Roy’s elephant Gildah, Berkley shared lighter moments, too. “Bette Midler was unforgettable—nervous before going onstage at an event we did together, and then completely electrifying once she got out there.”

These personal anecdotes offer a glimpse into Berkley’s long relationship with Las Vegas’ queer culture—not as an observer, but as a participant and ally.

Tackling Homelessness and Housing

One of Berkley’s top priorities is confronting Las Vegas’ housing crisis. “We’re short by about 60,000 units,” she said. “We’ve sold the Cashman Center for $36 million and will redevelop it into mixed-use, workforce housing.”

Homelessness is a key focus. “People shouldn’t be living on the streets. It’s not humane, not healthy, and not safe. We need mental health care, addiction services, and real job training. The goal isn’t survival—it’s dignity and stability.”

Beyond the Mayor’s Powers—but Not Her Passion

Although education and healthcare fall outside the mayor’s direct control, Berkley is vocal about both. "We're 49th in the nation for education funding. That’s unacceptable if we want to diversify our economy and attract businesses."

Similarly, the city faces a shortage of over 2,000 doctors. “Healthcare access isn’t just a state issue—it’s a quality of life issue, and it affects every Las Vegan."

A More Collaborative Leader

Berkley reflected on how her leadership style has evolved. "When I was younger, I thought being the loudest voice meant winning. But I’ve learned that real power comes from being the most thoughtful voice in the room," she said. "I listen more now. I include people in the conversation. It’s not about steamrolling— it's about persuasion. If you can show people that your idea helps them too, you’ll win support."

It’s a message that resonates deeply with the city’s diverse communities. From small business owners to activists, educators to entertainers, Berkley is making it a point to listen.

Advice for the Next Generation

To LGBTQ+ youth considering a career in public service, Berkley offered simple but powerful advice: “Do it. If you care about people, if you want to serve—don’t let anyone tell you no."

She added: “The worst that can happen is you lose. I’ve lost before. But I kept going. And look where I am now.”

A Final Thought

As the interview wrapped up, Mayor Berkley looked around the quiet, empty nightclub. “It looks beautiful in here. I hope people know how special this place is—not just for partying, but for what it represents.”

Las Vegas has a new mayor—but for Shelley Berkley, it’s always been about serving the people who make this city what it is. Her heart remains firmly rooted in the community. Her focus, as always, is the future.