Danville, Virginia, is experiencing an economic resurgence. The arrival of the Caesars Virginia casino has brought in over $222 million in gaming revenue, with nearly $20 million in tax revenue flowing into the city in 2024 alone. This influx of funds is a historic opportunity to revitalize our city and uplift communities that have long been left behind. Yet, as we celebrate this financial windfall, one question remains unanswered: How much of this money is being invested in Danville’s Black communities?
For decades, Danville’s Black residents have faced economic exclusion. Today, the data still paints a grim picture:
This is not just a statistical issue—it is a lived reality for thousands of Black families in Danville. And yet, despite these disparities, there is no clear commitment from city leaders to ensure that Black communities receive targeted economic investments from casino revenue.
Danville’s city leaders have outlined plans to use casino funds for public safety, infrastructure, and economic development—but without specific measures to address racial economic inequality, these investments will only reinforce the status quo. That’s why I, along with many others in the community, am calling on the Danville City Council and Governor Glenn Youngkin to allocate at least 20% of casino tax revenue—roughly $4 million annually—toward Black economic empowerment initiatives.
Some may argue that casino revenue should benefit all Danville residents, not just Black communities. But equity is not about giving one group an unfair advantage—it’s about correcting historical disparities and ensuring that economic growth benefits everyone. By investing in Black economic empowerment, Danville would not only reduce poverty and increase wages but also stimulate local economic growth. Black-owned businesses create jobs. Higher wages lead to increased spending in local stores. Homeownership strengthens neighborhoods and generates long-term wealth.
We are not asking for handouts—we are demanding our fair share of the economic prosperity that Danville is experiencing. The time for action is now.
Gilbert Wilkerson, Sr.
Chairman, Black Society for Economic and Social Transformation
Richmond
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