Meaning: The quote, "If you were black, you experienced prejudice. It wasn't a real horrible thing for us; we went through it. We noticed it mostly in the South and in Las Vegas, where we couldn't stay in the hotels where we entertained. But that began to change," is a statement made by Harold Nicholas, a renowned dancer who, along with his brother Fayard, formed the Nicholas Brothers, a highly influential African American tap dancing duo.

Harold Nicholas' quote reflects the pervasive reality of racial prejudice and discrimination faced by African Americans during the mid-20th century in the United States. His acknowledgment of experiencing prejudice as a black individual highlights the systemic and institutionalized racism that was deeply entrenched in American society at that time.

The reference to experiencing prejudice "mostly in the South and in Las Vegas" underscores the regional variations in racial attitudes and the prevalence of segregation and discrimination in certain parts of the country. The South, in particular, was notorious for its strict adherence to Jim Crow laws and widespread segregation, which enforced racial division and inequality in public spaces, including hotels, restaurants, and other establishments.

The mention of being unable to stay in hotels where they entertained in Las Vegas sheds light on the discriminatory practices of the hospitality industry, which routinely denied accommodation to black patrons based on their race. This exclusion from hotels and other venues not only limited the professional opportunities for African American performers but also symbolized the broader exclusion and marginalization they faced in society.

However, Nicholas' observation that "that began to change" signifies a glimmer of hope and progress in the face of racial injustice. This likely refers to the gradual but significant shifts in racial attitudes and legal reforms that were beginning to take place during the mid-20th century. The Civil Rights Movement, which gained momentum in the 1950s and 1960s, played a pivotal role in challenging and dismantling segregation and discrimination, leading to significant advancements in civil rights legislation and social change.

Harold Nicholas' quote serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience and strength exhibited by African Americans in the face of adversity. Despite the discrimination they endured, they persevered and contributed immensely to the cultural and artistic landscape of the nation. The Nicholas Brothers themselves were celebrated for their exceptional talent and groundbreaking performances, which defied racial barriers and inspired generations of artists and audiences.

In contemporary society, Harold Nicholas' words continue to resonate as a testament to the enduring legacy of the struggle for racial equality and justice. While progress has undeniably been made, the quote serves as a reminder of the ongoing work needed to confront and address the legacy of racism and inequality. It also underscores the importance of acknowledging and learning from the experiences of individuals like Harold Nicholas, whose resilience and artistry transcended the barriers imposed by a racially segregated society.

In conclusion, Harold Nicholas' quote encapsulates the pervasive reality of racial prejudice and discrimination faced by African Americans, while also acknowledging the resilience and hope for change. It serves as a powerful reflection of the historical struggle for civil rights and the enduring impact of individuals who confronted racial injustice with courage and creativity.