We need to put an end to incidents like this.
According to a report by 8 News Now, three family members from Nevada were taken into custody and charged in relation to a verbal altercation that went viral on social media. In the video, a Black man alleged that they hurled a racist slur at him and made a disturbing comment about a “hanging tree.”
The Storey County Sheriff’s Office has charged Gary Miller with violating the breach of peace, while Janis Miller has been charged with battery, and Tiffany Miller has been charged with obstructing and delaying a peace officer. The family was witnessed harassing Ricky Johnson, who was working at the Hot August Nights classic car festival in Virginia City, Nevada.
After reportedly receiving racist comments, Johnson began recording the video that has since gone viral.
As Miller flipped Johnson off, the latter demanded a response. “And where, pray tell, is the tree for hanging people? Do you know where that is?” Johnson asked, his voice laced with anger.
Gary Miller’s response of “In the backyard” is captured in the viral video.
In a recent statement, Nevada Attorney General Aaron Ford denounced the presence of racist undertones, stating unequivocally that there is no room for hate in the state.
Ford condemned the expression of hatred and expressed that it does not align with the values upheld in Nevada. In her statement, she emphasized her pride in being a Nevadan and acknowledged the diversity of the state’s population. She also highlighted the kindness and welcoming nature of the people of Nevada, including those residing in and around Virginia City, where the incident occurred.
Ford urged individuals to speak up against instances of mimicry after several individuals, including Gov. Joe Lombardo, expressed their concerns. “I encourage others to also condemn the racism showcased in the video,” Ford stated.
In a statement on X, Lombard expressed deep concern and disappointment regarding the incident that took place in Virginia City over the weekend. The use of racism and hate is unacceptable and has no place in Nevada. Lombard emphasized the need to strongly condemn such behavior. Nevada prides itself on its rich and diverse history, and Lombard made it clear that it will always be a welcoming place for everyone.
Located just outside of Reno, Virginia City attracts tens of thousands of tourists who come to explore the old mining town’s wood-planked sidewalks filled with old saloons and stores. While in town to collect signatures for a proposed Nevada state ballot targeting capped attorney fees, Johnson, a Houston native, became troubled after an ordeal. “I still shake every time I think about it,” Johnson shared with the Associated Press.
