LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — Hundreds of Nevadans protested Saturday afternoon against some of orders issued by Gov. Steve Sisolak due to the novel coronavirus outbreak.
The organizers of the protest invited people to show up at the Grant Sawyer Building in downtown Las Vegas with flags and signs in their cars and their hands.
It’s been one month since Gov. Sisolak announced the stay-at-home order. There have been rallies like the one organized today in other states, like Michigan and Kentucky.
Here in Las Vegas, those who showed up are concerned about their friends and family and worried about how the governor's directive is affecting the economy. Also, they believe that when it comes to shutting down businesses, it shouldn't be up to the government.
“We have the right to work, we are Vegas strong. There should not have been a reason for them to stop us from working. If we're healthy, we should be out there supporting our country and we can’t do this? Who is he to stop us from doing this? We need this," said Irene Felix, one of the protesters.
But some small business owners understand why they have to remain closed for now, even when is hurting their finances.
“It’s not realistic that we can be going back out in places yet. I’m one of the people who is immune compromised, so I especially can’t”, said Carolyn Kollegger, who is struggling right now with her tour guide company.
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To those who don’t feel safe to open their businesses or go outside during this COVID-19 crisis, some protesters believe it should be an individual choice.
“I understand that, they should stay home, and people should use precautions around them and that’s common sense, and if people feel uncomfortable, fine, that’s great, but let us be free," expressed Adam Hutchins.
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Other protests were planned for this morning in Carson City and Reno.
We reached out to the governor's office for comment on today's events, but no response has been received at this time.
