May 24, 2014
Went on the first ever "Women's History Tour of Las Vegas" given by Professor Joanne Goodwin at the Women's Research Institute of Nevada. She told the story of Pearl Baily and Anna Baily to the ladies of the Whiskey Sister Herstory Tour (2 RVSXers!) Pearl was famous for refusing to perform anywhere that didn't allow an integrated chorus, Anna was one of the dancers. Anna moved to Las Vegas to dance at the Moulin Rouge, the first desegregated hotel and casino in Vegas. When the Moulin Rouge closed, Anna toured the US and Europe before coming back to Vegas and dancing as the star performer of the Flamingo. I love this story of Pearl and Anna Bailey, an incredible example of "pulling your sisters up the ladder with you." - @melissapierce