Discover Inspiring Stories

Vegas PBS has partnered with UNLV’s Women’s Research Institute of Nevada to educate our community about some of the extraordinary women who have shaped Las Vegas into the world-famous and unique destination it is today. The goal of this continuing project is to create and distribute programs that focus on local Las Vegas women who have made significant contributions to the quality of life in Southern Nevada.

Go beyond the legend and meet the inspiring woman who repeatedly risked her own life and freedom to liberate others from slavery.

Nancy Hart was no ordinary frontierswoman. Known for her sharpshooting, fierce resolve, and fearless spirit, she became one of the most legendary women of the American Revolution.

The history of the Montiers, a trailblazing Philadelphia family who were among the first African-American landowners in Pennsylvania.

A tall, sparking goddess from Paris. A small, flashy, desert town in the West. Las Vegas and its showgirl were an odd but perfect match. Theirs was a complicated relationship that helped lead Las Vegas to become the Entertainment Capital of the World. "The Showgirl: A Las Vegas Icon" reveals the Las Vegas showgirl’s fascinating story.

The story of the remarkable achievements of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, the segregated all-female Women’s Army Corps deployed overseas during WWII. Tasked with organizing a huge backlog of undelivered mail intended for U.S. soldiers, the women, nicknamed the "Six Triple Eight," worked tirelessly in challenging conditions to ensure that millions of letters reached the frontlines.

During the Revolutionary War, Elizabeth Bennett Young risked everything to save her county’s records from destruction at the hands of the British. Her bravery preserved vital Isle of Wight history, which continues to tell the story of her and her neighbors 250 years later. Discover Hampton Roads’ unsung heroes whose actions helped spark the American Revolution.

A captivating exploration of Grace Sherwood, the “Witch of Pungo,” whose 1706 witchcraft trial became legend in Virginia Beach. Using historic documentation, author Scott Moore lays out the facts, and then explores the lore, to reveal how the story has evolved, from accused witch to symbol of resilience, becoming the region’s enduring folk hero.

A reflection on the life of freedom fighter and civic leader Josie Johnson, who fought for fair housing, education, and civil rights. Hear in her own words how her experiences turned her to activism. Johnson was inspired by activists who came before her, and the documentary shows how her activism continues to inspire the next generation of activists, including her grandchildren. The struggle for justice and equality continues, but there is hope in the struggle. Explore Hope i

Harriet Tubman | From the Railroad to a Spy is a documentary that tells her complete story. Journey through the events and details of her incredible life story that are seldom told, from the underground railroad to her work as a Union Army scout and spy in military campaigns.

At a critical juncture in our nation’s history, Public Defender , an award-winning documentary film, examines the fault lines of American democracy through the lens of Heather Shaner, a seasoned and fiercely compassionate public defender in Washington, DC.

Christa McAuliffe, America’s first teacher in space, is the subject of a moving documentary on the creation of her statue, unveiled in September 2024 at the New Hampshire State House and created by Idaho sculptor Benjamin Victor. Through interviews with former students, educators, and state leaders, the film celebrates her life and belief that ordinary people can achieve extraordinary things.

African American pioneer, Clara Brown's true-life story is told through the lens of an American opera, "Gabriel's Daughter." Clara became a successful entrepreneur, helped populate the African American Colorado community while searching for her only remaining daughter who was sold away from her at auction. Through Opera highlighted performances we discover Clara's struggles and triumphs.

On December 10th, 1869 the territory of Wyoming ratified into law the right for women to vote. Stories abound across the state regarding...

This film documents the historical context of textiles used in activism, and the remarkable process of this relevant nationwide public...

Emerging from her husband’s shadow after his sudden death in 1924, Nellie Tayloe Ross left her mark as a tireless and innovative...

The inspiring true story of 20 women who raced across America in 1929. Wearing breeches and goggles during the day and ball gowns at...

Carrie Chapman Catt devoted most of her life to the expansion of women’s rights nationwide and around the world, and is recognized as one...