From Nevada to Washington
I am proud to say that our advocacy has reached from Nevada’s arts community all the way to the White House. Circus arts are now on the federal radar in ways they never have been before — but this is just the beginning. Together, we can make sure circus and performing artists — and all creative workers — are recognized, respected, and protected.
As a lifelong circus artist and world champion acrobatic gymnast, I’ve dedicated my life to performing, creating, and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. Yet beyond the stage, my mission has always been to amplify the voices of those who make the circus and performing arts possible — the artists, students, coaches, and workers behind the curtain.
That’s what inspired me to found the Circus Arts Guild of America — to give our community a voice where it matters most: in policymaking rooms in Nevada, in Washington, D.C., and even at the White House. For too long, circus arts have been overlooked in cultural and labor policy. I knew that had to change, and I’ve worked tirelessly to bring circus artists and their needs to the national stage.
Every story I hear from our community — whether it’s shared at a festival, in a rehearsal space, or through the conversations I host on the Circuspreneur Podcast — becomes part of the case I carry into those rooms. My work on the advisory board of Nevada’s first-ever Arts, Creative, and Entertainment Chamber (ACE Chamber) further deepens my connection to the wider creative workforce, ensuring that the voices of circus artists are part of Nevada’s broader cultural conversation.
These experiences, perspectives, and shared stories guide my advocacy — strengthening my commitment to expanding opportunity, improving safety, and building a future where creativity, community, and worker protections can thrive together.
From the stage to the Statehouse, my goal remains the same: to turn lived experience into lasting policy change, and to make sure that Nevada’s artists — and every creative worker across America — are seen, heard, and supported
Experience in Cultural &
Workforce Policy
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Championing Policy Solutions
I have proudly authored and advocated for major federal policy initiatives to strengthen the creative workforce, expand access to arts funding and education, and ensure performers are protected from abuse, harassment, and exploitation.
My work has focused on creating pathways for national arts recognition, establishing fair labor standards for performers and creative workers, and expanding federal safeguarding protections across the artistic and athletic communities.
I have met with lawmakers on Capitol Hill — including Representative Dina Titus of Nevada and Senator Marsha Blackburn’s office — and built momentum across party lines to advance these priorities. Each conversation, each step, has moved creative workers and families closer to the respect, security, and opportunity they deserve.
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Fighting as a Survivor and Champion
I bring these fights with me because I know what it means to survive. As a survivor of USA Gymnastics and one of the most decorated American acrobats, I have seen the consequences when athletes and artists are left without protections. I refuse to let the next generation of circus performers endure the same struggles.
I know how to fight — not just in the ring or under the spotlight, but in the halls of power. And I will fight for every Nevadan, every artist, and every worker who deserves dignity, fairness, and safety.
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Shenea Booth alongside representatives from the office of Rep. Titus and members of the SIRC Working Group.
