Gwen Walkers Determined Fight to Preserve African American Heritage in Las Vegas

Gwen Walker’s journey with the Walker African American Museum and Research Center highlights the challenges and complexities of preserving cultural heritage within a city undergoing development. Despite the museum’s closure in 2017 due to structural issues and personal circumstances, Walker remains committed to reopening. Her collection, which she began at age 13, is significant, holding over 50,000 artifacts that document African American history in Nevada and beyond.

Amidst these efforts, the city of Las Vegas announced plans for a new African American museum as part of the Historic Urban Neighborhood Design Redevelopment (HUNDRED) Plan. This initiative aims to revitalize the Historic Westside and includes a museum project that initially referenced Walker’s contributions. However, Walker expresses disappointment and frustration over the lack of direct support for her museum, feeling sidelined by the city’s broader plans.

The city had previously offered a $45,000 grant to Walker, which she declined due to a repayment clause that she found risky. Despite ongoing discussions with city officials, there seems to be a disconnect between Walker’s vision and the city’s plans. While there have been mentions of potential collaboration, specifics remain unclear.

With a new councilmember in Ward 5, Shondra Summers-Armstrong, reaching out to Walker, there is hope for renewed support and dialogue. Walker remains determined to reopen her museum, aiming for a reopening within the next few months, despite the challenges she faces. The city’s museum plans continue to develop, with a potential exhibit scheduled for 2026, but its relationship with Walker’s museum remains uncertain.