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Mercedez Davis: Advocacy For Artists

Shenea Stiletto
Mercedez Davis Advocacy For Artists
On this episode of the Circuspreneur Podcast celebrating Black Activism, host Shenea Stiletto ​⁠ interviews Merecedez Davis, a local community activist and artist, who most recently moderated the Film Tax Incentive TownHall at UNLV organized by Eccentric Artists. Working with Senator Dina Neal as a community organizer, Mercedez advocated successfully for the passage of the Windsor Park Environmental Justice Act. Windsor Park is a historically Black Neighborhood in North Las Vegas which was built on a geological fault and aquifer. As the underground water reservoirs began to deplete, this caused all of the homes to start cracking and breaking to the point of sinking for decades. The Nevada Legislative Session has begun!

What led you to grassroots organizing and advocacy work?

I studied environmental studies in college, focusing on climate change and environmental justice. After realizing how many communities lacked access to clean air and water, I began organizing for community-driven solutions. When I moved to Las Vegas, I became involved in local advocacy efforts, including the Windsor Park Environmental Justice Bill, which successfully secured new homes for 93 families affected by sinking land.

How did you help pass the Windsor Park Bill, and what challenges did you face?

I took a hands-on approach—knocking on doors, organizing community meetings, and educating residents about how they could provide testimony. The biggest challenges were imposter syndrome (as I was new to Vegas and the political space), lack of immediate support, and the decades-long history of the issue. Despite these obstacles, by mobilizing the community, we successfully got the bill passed in 2023.

What is the Nevada Film Tax Bill, and how does it impact the circus arts and creative industries?

The bill aims to bring major film studios like Warner Brothers and Sony to Las Vegas, offering tax incentives to encourage production in Nevada. However, it’s essential that local artists and smaller creative industries, like circus arts, advocate for their interests within the bill. If artists don’t participate in the process, their needs might be overlooked in favor of big corporations.

How can artists and community members get involved in legislative advocacy?

Public participation is key—anyone can provide testimony, attend hearings (virtually or in person), and give public comments. Legislative sessions are transparent, and engaging at each stage helps shape policies in ways that benefit independent artists and creatives. If people don’t show up, corporate voices will dominate the conversation.

What advice do you have for activists who feel burnt out or undervalued in their advocacy work?

Many women of color in advocacy give so much without receiving adequate support. I’ve realized I need to balance my activism with personal sustainability. Advocates must demand compensation, recognition, and self-care to continue their work effectively. You can’t pour from an empty cup—advocacy is a long game, and it’s crucial to set boundaries and seek reciprocity in your efforts.

Key Takeaways:

  • Community Advocacy Works
    Grassroots organizing, like the Windsor Park Bill, can create real change when communities are engaged.
  • Artists Must Be Heard
    The Nevada Film Tax Bill could impact local creatives, but only if they advocate for their interests.
  • Legislative Action is Accessible
    Anyone can participate in public hearings, provide testimony, and help shape policies.
  • Burnout is Real
    Activists, especially women of color, must set boundaries and demand support to sustain their work.
  • Timing is Key
    Policy change requires persistence, strategy, and seizing opportunities when doors are open.

Listen to this Episode on:

Spotify / Apple Podcasts / YouTube

Shenea Stiletto
Acrobat, Podcaster, Circus Artist, Handstand Instructor -United States
Shenea Stiletto (Shenea Booth) is a two-time World Champion Gold Medalist in Acrobatic gymnastics, a USA Gymnastics Hall of Fame Member, and World Acrobatic Society Inductee. Her career includes a decade of collaborations with Cirque Du Soleil including the coveted hand balancing role as "The Promise" in Varekai, becoming the first-ever African American female soloist to play a lead character in a Cirque Du Soleil production.
Shenea was also a finalist on America’s Got Talent and has continued to be a featured artist with prominent circus entertainment companies worldwide.

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Shenea Stiletto

Shenea Stiletto (Shenea Booth) is a two-time World Champion Gold Medalist in Acrobatic gymnastics, a USA Gymnastics Hall of Fame Member, and World Acrobatic Society Inductee. Her career includes a decade of collaborations with Cirque Du Soleil including the coveted hand balancing role as "The Promise" in Varekai, becoming the first-ever African American female soloist to play a lead character in a Cirque Du Soleil production. Shenea was also a finalist on America’s Got Talent and has continued to be a featured artist with prominent circus entertainment companies worldwide.