LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — It's hard to miss the Asian American culture and presence in Las Vegas.
In 2020, Resorts World is expected to be completed. There the Chinese culture will be on full display at the multi-million dollar resort.
The colorful and spectacular Lunar New Year celebrations going on around Las Vegas are also a vivid reminder of the significant presence of Asian Americans.
"We want to be part of the community,” said Melody Mojica.
Mojica hosts “Home Sweet Home" on Asian Culture TV. It’s based here in Las Vegas but seen globally.
"Just here alone in Las Vegas if you look out along Spring Mountain on the west side pretty much everything in that whole population is Asian."
Pew research shows the U.S. Asian population skyrocketed 72 percent between 2000 and 2015 making it the fastest growing ethnic group right now.
"Vegas is one of the destinations for Asians," said Mojica. "Everybody throughout Asia, West Asia, and East Asia want to come to Las Vegas.
The Lucky Dragon Hotel was one high profile project that came about to capitalize on the vast number of Asian tourists. Despite its struggles, some people hope there will be more projects like it in the future reflecting the diversity of Asians in Las Vegas.
People like Ayesha Mehdi.
"Asia consists of all the Asians you would typically consider Asian," said Mehdi. "People from China, Japan or the Philippines. But Pakistanis and Indians and people from the subcontinents Southeast Asia are also Asians."
Mehdi's roots are in Pakistan, but her heart is in Las Vegas.
“Oh, I love Las Vegas. It’s so diverse,” said Mehdi. "We were looking at places that were international cities with the good cost of living and Vegas is just the land of opportunity."
As a health care attorney, she says it was ideal for family and career.
"It's a big, small town, and there are still opportunities for businesses and entrepreneurs here," she said.
Nevada recognizes Asian Culture Day on May 18.
“The state of Nevada is the first in the entire country to establish Asian Culture Day,” said Mojica.
And an opportunity for all of us to learn more about the Asian community.
