Denver Urban Spectrum - May 2022 - Ketanji Jackson Brown by Denver Urban Spectrum

2022

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MESSAGE FROM THE PUBLISHER Commemorating Mother’s Day Volume 36

Number 2

May 2022

PUBLISHER Rosalind J. Harris GENERAL MANAGER Lawrence A. James EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Alfonzo Porter COPY EDITOR Tanya Ishikawa COLUMNISTS Kim Farmer Barry Overton CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Stacy M. Brown Luciana J. COLAB Tanya Ishikawa - Story Coordinator ART DIRECTOR Bee Harris ADVERTISING & DIGITAL MARKETING Melovy Melvin

Mother’s Day – a celebration honoring mothers, as well as motherhood, maternal bonds, and the influence of mothers in society – may be the underlying theme of this month’s Denver Urban Spectrum. As we celebrate the historic achievement of Judge Ketanji Jackson Brown, one indelible image for many of us is the photo of her daughter and the pride reflected on her face during her mother’s recent confirmation. Journalist Stacy M. Brown shares that historic moment on April 7, 2022, at 2:17 p.m. as Judge Brown entered the history books, becoming the first Black woman elevated to the position of U.S. Supreme Court justice. We also share views from local Denverites on how they felt about the nomination and confirmation process, as captured in a recent Zoom meeting hosted by the Colorado Black Round Table. In this month’s issue, another special mother figure, former First Lady of Denver Wilma J. Webb honors her husband, former Denver Mayor Wellington E. Webb with the unveiling of the bronze statue that she initiated. The unveiling ceremony of the Walk of Mayor Wellington E. Webb monument, created by Ed Dwight, brought the community together at the Wellington E. Webb Municipal Office Building last month. This month we pay tribute to the late Gloria Travis Tanner – a mother to many of whom she paved the way in the political arena – leaving a giant legacy. Meanwhile, another mother, Cleo Parker Robinson, bid farewell to her beloved husband, Tom Robinson, who also passed away last month. This year, like other years, Mother’s Day will evoke different feelings for everyone – pride, joy, sadness, and gratitude, among the rainbow of emotions. As we celebrate this annual holiday, reflect on the good, remember the love and appreciate the time shared. Tomorrow is never promised to anyone. We dedicate this issue to all mothers, living and those who have gone to be with the ancestors. Enjoy!

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Jody Gilbert - Kolor Graphix PHOTOGRAPHERS Lens of Ansar Bernard Grant SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER Melovy Melvin DISTRIBUTION Ed Lynch Lawrence A. James - Manager

The Denver Urban Spectrum is a monthly publication dedicated to spreading the news about people of color. Contents of the Denver Urban Spectrum are copyright 2022 by Bizzy Bee Enterprise. No portion may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher. The Denver Urban Spectrum circulates 25,000 copies throughout Colorado. The Denver Urban Spectrum welcomes all letters, but reserves the right to edit for space, libelous material, grammar, and length. All letters must include name, address, and phone number. We will withhold author’s name on request. Unsolicited articles are accepted without guarantee of publication or payment. Write to the Denver Urban Spectrum at P.O. Box 31001, Aurora, CO 80041. For advertising, subscriptions, or other information, call 303-292-6446 or fax 303292-6543 or visit the Web site at www.denverurbanspectrum.com.

Rosalind “Bee” Harris DUS Publisher Editor’s note: To view the home-going celebrations of Gloria Travis Tanner and Tom Robinson, visit https://www.youtube.com/c/NewHopeDenver.

LETTERS, OPINIONS AND OP-EDS they count on being able to shift the focus from reparations and keep Black people placated with token appointments like Jackson and the ex-cop mayor of New York City, that makes no change in the balance of economic power. As long as a people are willing to dive for crumbs their descendants will go hungry. None of the marginalized disrespected Black people in any of Americas cities will benefit from high-level token appointments. What will get Black people respect is economic clout, self-determination and the protection from aggressive police members of the dominant cultural enjoy. An historic appointment is nice… but is it real progress? Window dressing or real power – the choice is ours. History or substance? Which will it be?

Real Progress: Window Dressing or Real Power? Editor: While the confirmation of Ketanji Brown Jackson is of considerable historic significance, her confirmation begs the question: Who benefits besides Jackson? We don’t advance as individuals, we advance as a people; and token appointments do nothing for the group. They look good – makes us feel we are progressing, but they are merely cosmetic. Black people in America have been lulled into viewing superficial progress as true progress. In so doing they ignore the big picture. There is nothing the American power structure can do to promote real progress for African Americans, short of giving them their rightful share of its wealth, wealth earned by enslaved ancestors – including interest. The elite know this but

Antonio Aurora, CO

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – May 2022

Show us a workable plan for Park Hill Golf Course Open Space and Affordable Housing Possible

Op-ed by Wellington E. Webb Denver was once known as a city within a park, but that image has faded over the last twenty years as unfettered development has consumed the city and her leaders. As our city has grown, the need for housing has increased, changing neighborhoods and redefining communities. Baby Boomers work to keep their homes while Millennials are faced with exurbanite rents and buying a house is out of reach for most. Our city has changed over the last twenty years, Continued on page 18

Judge Ketanji Jackson Brown Makes U.S. History as First Black Woman on the Supreme Court By Stacy M. Brown Editor’s note: This article was first published in the Denver Weekly News. It is reprinted with permission from the publisher.

On April 7, 2022, at 2:17 p.m. EDT, Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson entered the history books, becoming the first Black woman elevated to the position of U.S. Supreme Court justice. After arduous and volatile hearings last month, the Democratic-controlled Senate confirmed Jackson by a 53-47 vote. Vice President Kamala Harris announced the final vote, tapping the podium with her gavel, which signaled the making of history. “This is a special day for Black communities and for all Americans and marks the start of a new era for the judicial branch of the United States,” said Spencer Overton, the president of the Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies. “We are celebrating this joyful moment with Judge Jackson and reflecting on the significant impact she will have on our nation over the next several decades.” All 50 Democrats in the U.S. Senate voted in favor of Jackson, while Sens. Mitt Romney of Utah, Susan Collins of Maine, and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska were the only Republicans to cast ballots approving President Joe Biden’s nominee. Though unquestionably supporting Jackson, D.C. Democratic Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton expressed a bittersweet reality. “This is historic,” Norton proclaimed. “[However], there’s still some emptiness for the

“And the District of president Columbia. sought an D.C., as with individual every other who is comSCOTUS mitted to nominee in equal justice history, [had] under the no vote on law and who confirmation understands even though the profound D.C. and its impact that residents are the Supreme bound by the Court’s decicourt’s rulsions have on ings.” the lives of Following the American four days of U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson Courtesy Photo people,” a public testisenior official stated. “That is mony and a racially charged grilling of Jackson by why the president nominated Republicans that began on Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson.” March 21, Senate Judiciary Born in Washington, D.C., members deadlocked 11-11 on Jackson grew up in Miami, Fla. April 4 to move the nomination According to the White out of committee. House, during a 2017 lecture, However, Jackson’s nominaJackson traced her love of the law tion moved forward based on back to sitting next to her father Senate rules and a Democrat in their apartment as he tackled majority in the upper chamber. his law school homework. On Thursday, members A speech and debate star, again engaged in a debate over Jackson was elected as “mayor” confirmation, but Sen. Majority of Palmetto Junior High and stuLeader Chuck Schumer cut dent body president of Miami arguments off before the final Palmetto Senior High School. vote. “But like many Black Ironically, Republicans women, Judge Jackson still changed the rules for Supreme faced naysayers,” senior White Court nominees in 2017 to conHouse officials wrote. “When firm Justice Neil Gorsuch, a Judge Jackson told her high pick of former President school guidance counselor, she Donald Trump. That move wanted to attend Harvard, the allowed for a similar majority to guidance counselor warned that vote to limit debate. Judge Jackson should not set “It will be a joyous day,” her sights so high.” Schumer declared. Jackson graduated magna The White House said since cum laude from Harvard Justice Stephen Breyer University, then attended announced his retirement, Harvard Law School, where she Biden had sought a candidate graduated cum laude and was an editor of the Harvard Law with “exceptional credentials, Review. unimpeachable character, and In 2021, Jackson earned conunwavering dedication to the firmation on the U.S. Court of rule of law.” Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – May 2022

Appeals for the D.C. Circuit. She also served on the U.S. District Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia, and President Barack Obama nominated Jackson as District Court judge in 2012. Jackson also served as vice chair of the U.S. Sentencing Commission, clerked for Justice Breyer, and worked as a federal public defender. She’s the first former federal public defender to serve on the U.S. Supreme Court. “Ketanji Brown Jackson is an outstanding jurist and person,” the Fraternal Order of Police wrote. “Brilliant, fair and a true and real person, she will be an immense credit to the court and our country.” Supreme Court lawyer Neal Katyal said by all accounts Jackson possesses the qualities essential in a Supreme Court justice. Obama declared that Jackson “has a demonstrated record of excellence.” “I believe, based upon her work as a trial judge when I served on the Court of Appeals, that she will adjudicate based on the facts and the law and not as a partisan,” Obama stated. Local statements on the Senate confirmation of Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson: “Judge Jackson’s confirmation to the Supreme Court today is a recognition of her judicial accomplishments and a victory for our highest ideals as a democracy. She has the best legal training America can offer, a decade of experience on the federal bench, and a consistent record of bipartisan support. Judge Jackson will stand for the values etched in

the Constitution – freedom, equality, democracy, and the rule of law.” Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet

“Ketanji Brown Jackson’s experience and background will make her a Supreme Court Justice who represents all Americans. She has a brilliant legal mind and a dedication to public service. But she’s also a mom and an American who cares deeply about how the law affects real people. Her confirmation will help restore faith in our justice system, and I’m proud to have helped her make history.”

Editor’s note: Following is a writing exercise of a short fictional story in the fantasy genre.

First-Day Nerves By Tanya Ishikawa

Sitting on the floor of the wardrobe under hanging robes, Ketanji’s hands quaked. Her forehead perspired. “Breathe,” she whispered, inhaling and exhaling deeply. Feeling an unexpected, cool breeze, she crawled further inside to find its source. The wooden bottom ended abruptly, and sent her rolling into the large claws of a colorful dragon. The beast lifted her carefully until she came eye to eye with those signature, round glasses and blue eyes. “Get back out there! They need you!” scolded Ruth from the giant beast’s back. Ketanji scanned the magical forest, then obeyed, excited for her quest (as well as her happily ever after.)

Colorado U.S. Senator John Hickenlooper

“This is a critical moment for our country. For the first time in our nation’s history, white men will no longer be the majority on the U.S. Supreme Court. We will have four women serving on the bench for the first time including Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson, the first Black woman to ever serve on the highest court in our land. This is what progress looks like. “Ketanji Brown Jackson is one of the most qualified justices ever nominated to serve on the Supreme Court. Through her talent and intellect, she blazed the trail that many in this country thought was impossible less than a century ago. She deserves all the credit in the world for what she has just achieved.” Colorado U.S. Representative Diana DeGette

Editor’s note: Stacy M. Brown is a senior writer for The Washington Informer and the senior national correspondent for the Black Press of America. He has more than 25 years of journalism experience and has authored two major biographies, including “Blind Faith: The Miraculous Journey of Lula Hardaway, Stevie Wonder’s Mother.” Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – May 2022

Karen Ashby

Denver Locals Comment on the Nomination of Chief Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson John Bailey with the Colorado Black Round Table hosted a Zoom meeting after the nomination and confirmation of Chief Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson. He asked the following people for their comments on what it meant to them. Following are excerpts of their comments. To view the complete meeting, email Bailey at johnbailey062@gmail.com. Judge Gary Jackson

“Looking through the lens of a lawyer and judge

“I was thrilled about the fact that we finally had a Black women nominated to the Supreme Court…(but) emotions such as anger, frustration, sadness arose as I watched the nomination and confirmation process play out because for so long we couldn’t be in that situation and then we had some people saying she should not be in that role…When we talk about the glass house, had she responded in any way to those questions the way some prior nominees had responded to being asked irrelevant questions, I’m not sure she would have been confirmed. People would have looked at that confirming their own preconceived notions of how a Black woman might act if given a role of authority … This is a very emotional time for me and I’m happy that we have gotten to this point but I recognize we have a long way still to go.”

for 52 years…in 1967 when I was entering law school at CU, the honorable Thurgood Marshall was being appointed to the U.S. Supreme Court. He was an inspiration to me because at that time, there were four Black law students, no Black law professors, no Black staff people, not even a Black maintenance person at CU Law School. So for Justice Marshall to be an inspiration to me in 1967, this is the same inspiration that Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson will have for students of color, especially Black women, letting them know being a Black woman justice is no longer a dream but a reality.”

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“How can you describe what’s it like for young Black girls in this country to look at the highest court in this land and see themselves for the first time ever? There aren’t any words to describe that. The arc of the moral universe is long but it bends toward justice. This is one of those moments where we see it. We see it bend toward justice. How can you find the words to describe how important that is? And what a person to embody what we are talking about today in Justice Jackson…Her credentials are double gold-plated…unimpeachable professionalism, unimpeachable personal inte-

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grity, the perfect judicial temperament, you can’t find somebody more qualified than that.” Judge Lino Lipinsky

“I hope you saw the extraordinary picture of her daughter looking on during the confirmation hearings and that sense of joy and love in her daughter’s face. That captures in many ways the inspiration you will get from Justice Jackson.” Sueanna Johnson

“The thing that was most moving to me about her was her story about an anonymous student at Harvard when she was feeling very lonely and isolated… comes up to her and says persevere. And it is those moments and that emotion I felt from where she was having to actually do that in the U.S. Senate to persevere. I applaud her appointment.” Co. State Rep. Jennifer Bacon

“You have to recognize how important this is particularly for little girls…to be able to open up our imagination, to be limitless… and for Black women… Black women live in the space where we have to be stronger than anyone else because we’re not sure if people will support us. And to know that the person who has the highest office in the land could make a promise and fulfill it does so much for how we think about where we stand in the world… So I say this again, the importance of knowing that there is certainly limitless imagination, that there is light at the end of the tunnel, and we have

a lot of hope for her… And I cannot wait to read an opinion that she authored.” Bennie Milliner

“I was filled with more anger and outrage during these confirmation hearings than anything else. Individuals who couldn’t carry her briefcase acting like they had so much more authority and information. They were like little pit bulls that couldn’t let go of stupidity. It spoke more to their character and didn’t have any impact on her. Symbolism is important as she sat there as a Black woman – a dark woman of color – and to be able to sit through…a persecution. That’s all it was, a persecution of her status…She stood high and tall, not just for Black girls but for Black boys too, to see the strength in our women. And

hopefully to appreciate our women as we move forward during these times.”

endure with dignity and strength and power and intelligence at that hearing, at that confirmation. And we know we have to carry on… We’ve made great progress… And we can’t give up even though we are tired…When I think about how Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson sat at that table… with grace, dignity and intelligence and love. Senator Cory Booker talked about how love brought her there. And we have love for her and she has love for this nation and she knows that her destiny was greater than the indignities that were thrown and hurled her way. She shouldn’t have had to deal with that…but she has a destiny and she is going to fulfill it..

Selena Dunham

“I was so proud that this process was taking place because let’s remember just a few months ago we were having conversations about Black Lives Matter and they were hard conversations to hold and questions that we needed to answer but our work is not done. I thought Judge Jackson was an extremely awesome role model and I can tell my granddaughter that you can be anything you want to be – she is an example of that.” Dorothy Hayden Watkin

“We are just tired of the kinds of things that we see happening around us, the things we saw the honorable Ketanji Brown Jackson

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – May 2022

Jackson on Supreme Court Confirmation: ‘We’ve Made It — All of Us’ By Stacy M. Brown

Two hundred and thirty-

two years, 116 justices, 108 white men, six women, two Black men and one Latino woman later, the United States Supreme Court will finally have an African American woman serving as an associate justice. Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson, who will succeed Justice Stephen Breyer upon his retirement later this year, earned confirmation Thursday with a 53-47 vote, breaking the glass ceiling after America’s first Black female vice president, Kamala Harris, presided over the process to confirm her.

“It has taken 232 years and 115 prior appointments for a Black woman to be selected to serve on the Supreme Court of the United States,” Jackson proclaimed Friday during a ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House. “But we’ve made it. We’ve made it. All of us. All of us,” she declared. “Our children are telling me that they see now more than ever that here in America, anything is possible.” Jackson said she has been flooded with thousands of meaningful notes from children and others. She said the letters from young ones touched her deeply. “Because more than anything, they speak directly to the hope and promise of America,” she asserted. “[Children] also tell me that I am a role model, which I take both as an opportunity and as a huge responsibility. “I am feeling up to the task, primarily because I know that I am not alone,” Jackson said. “I am standing on the shoulders of my own role models. Generations of Americans who never had anything close to this kind of opportunity, but who got up every day and went to work believing in the promise of America.” President Joe Biden proudly acknowledged his history-making nomination and the incoming justice. “I mean this from the bottom my heart. This is going to let so

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Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – May 2022

much sunshine on so many young women, so many young Black women,” Biden offered. “We’re going to look back and see this as a moment of real change in American history.” Harris, who proudly and demonstrably nervously presided over the Senate vote, said Jackson’s confirmation served a higher purpose. “This will answer fundamental questions about who we are and what kind of country we live in,” Harris said. “You will inspire generations of leaders. They will watch your confirmation hearings and read your decisions in the years to come. Today is indeed a wonderful day.” The arduous and volatile confirmation hearings served to underscore why more than 3,800 individuals have served on federal benches in the United States, but only 70 have been Black women. “With this extraordinary, glass-breaking moment, Black girls across the United States will have more than their dreams of being a Supreme Court Justice to demonstrate ‘that with hard work, determination, and love, it can be done,’” said D.C. Council member Kenyan McDuffie (DWard 5). “It is my honor to know Judge Jackson, and I believe we will be one step closer to our pursuit of a more perfect union when she is sworn in as Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson.”.

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The Walk of Mayor Wellington E. Webb Monument Unveiled

Aubrey Ipolani Webb opens the program with “America The Beautiful.” Photos by Bernard Grant

By Luciana J.

From all walks of life they came – elected officials, business associates, former staff, acquaintances, colleagues, friends, and family – walking together to celebrate the dedication and unveiling ceremony for The Walk of Mayor Wellington E. Webb monument in the Wellington E. Webb Municipal Office Building. Funded by the DM 42 Legacy

Foundation, the full-size sculpture by Ed Dwight signifies the 42-day, 330-mile walk of candidate Wellington Webb when he won the mayoral race in 1991. Former spokesman for the Webb Administration Andrew Hudson emceed the April 6 ceremony, welcoming a procession

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that included Governor Jared Polis, Mayor Michael Hancock, Ed Dwight, Tom Migaki, Rev. Frank Davis, Councilwoman Stacie Gilmore, Mike Dino, Rosemary Rodriquez, Ambassador Daniel Yohannes, Jim Martinez, Jim Sullivan, Wayne Cauthen, and others. Entertainment was bountiful and diverse. Great granddaughter Aubrey Ipolani Webb opened the program with “America The Beautiful.” Freddy Rodriguez Jr. accompanied by Andrew Hudson performed “This Is My Country.” Referred to as an angel from heaven, Tara Washington sang a tribute song, “The Greatest Love of All.”

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Tom Cochran with the U.S. Conference of Mayors in Washington, D.C. brought official greetings from President Joe Biden, former President Clinton, and the presidents of three national organizations of mayors.

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – May 2022

In addition to his relationship with Webb since 1999 and Webb’s contributions to the City of Denver and beyond, Cochran said, “In my lifetime, I have attended only two dedications of statues. The first was in 2003 when we shut down our Denver 71st Annual Meeting on a beautiful Sunday morning and all attended the ceremony in Denver City Park honoring the new statue of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. created by Ed Dwight surrounded by sculptures of Rosa Parks, Frederick Douglass, Mahatma Gandhi, and Sojourner Truth. And then on April 6 with the unveiling of the Webb statue. While Dr. King was a transformation figure for our nation from the state of Georgia and the City of Atlanta, Mayor Webb, too, is a transformation figure for his City of Denver and for his state.” Dwight shared his vision of the sculpture’s creation and Hancock described with great enthusiasm how Mayor Webb’s leadership and action made Denver what it is today. It was the Honorable Wilma J. Webb who took the attendees behind the scenes with images never before seen or recognized. “Wellington, on this morning, I want to thank you and congratulate you for being the man, the family man, the servant, and the leader that you have lived to be,” she said. “Because of Wellington, I and you the people of Denver and Colorado and our nation, we were able to: •Give the people of Cuernavaca, Mexico, one of Denver’s Sister Cities, a needed firetruck;

•Provide a very needed water tank to cleanse the water for the people of our Sister City, Axum, Ethiopia; •Provide health care to people who were suffering from AIDS in South Africa; •Stand up for the release of Nelson Mandela from political prison in South Africa; •Read books to children who were staying the night at school in 5 below zero weather in the snow in Golden, Colorado; •Meet and be inspired by Victor Contreras, a worldrenowned artist of Mexico, who provided our city with the sculpture, “Infinity,” proudly located in our Denver Center for the Performing Arts; •We experienced Oslo, Norway, where the Nobel Peace Prize originates, and we came back to Denver understanding more deeply what peace and freedom mean to people everywhere; •We planted trees in Israel to prevent further possible drought there; •We comforted our nation and our Denver citizens by planting flags in Civic Center for each of the victims of 9/11; •We came back from Paris, France, where we were inspired by the art and the parkways in Versailles, and we created Centennial Park in Denver; •We went to Gettysburg and experienced first-hand what Abraham Lincoln did in comforting the surviving soldiers from the North and the South by assuring them that our losses were not in vain; •We established scholarships in the name of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., whose shoulders all of us stand. Numerous students in Denver and Colorado have benefitted in receiving higher education because of these scholarships; •We visited the sick and the hurt to provide care and hope for them;

•We donated $20,000 to Northeastern Junior College and $40,000 to Manual High School. “And, with the help of the people of Denver, did so much more for people everywhere. There is so much more to tell.” Never at a loss for words, the 42nd Mayor of Denver said, “People ask me, ‘When are you going to retire, Mayor Webb?’ My response is always, ‘When the Good Lord tells me.’”

In the meantime, he said he’ll continue to voice his opinion and work on issues that he believes are important for Denver, Colorado and America. “So, my priorities for 2022 are the following,” he said. 1. I join our nation in supporting the people of Ukraine as they fight the genocide of Russia against their country. But we as Americans also should be very concerned about the genocide taking place in

Ethiopia, where thousands of people, including women and children, are being raped, starved, forced from their homes, and killed. We sat on our hands in 1994 when social tensions in Rwanda erupted into a civil war, in which Hutu extremists killed an estimated 500,000 to 1 million Tutsi and Hutu in the span of 100 days. The potential in Ethiopian deaths is even higher. I implore Continued on page 12

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303-521-7211 or 303-249-2196 Platinum Sponsors: Walmart, Colorado Rockies Gold Sponsors: Nike, Webb Group International (Wellington and Wilma Webb), City and County of Denver (Mayor Michael Hancock), Roger Sherman (CRL), Hensel Phelps, Radio Host Tom Martino Silver Sponsors: Dave Logan, Maria Garcia Berry, Dawn Bookhardt Bronze: Colorado Convention Center, David Cole & Associates (Fabby Hillyard), King Soopers, Dr. Renee Cousins, Denver Broncos, UFCW #7, Supporting Sponsors: Geta Asfaw/McDonalds, Black Denver Sheriffs, Black Police Officers, Fraternal Order of Police, Moses Brewer, Tish Maes, Kroenke Sports (Denver Nuggets), Sista Love (Joy Walker), VIP Productions, All In 1 Hosting, Prof. Richard Jackson (MSU), Coach Rudy Carey, Fundamental Fund, Inc., Simmons & Associates, Alisha Gafney, Greg Levan, Roy Gentry, Eash High School, Tilyn Walker, Tim Sayler, Marcus Pachner, Buffalo Wild Wings, Evan Dryer, Maxx Impact Group (Maxine Pryor), Maaco, Space Age Marketing, Denver Urban Spectrum

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – May 2022

Wellington E. Webb Monument Continued from page 11 someone in Washington, D.C., to give a damn about Africa. 2. I continue to join the ongoing debate on the future of the Park Hill Golf Course. Voters were right to protect this open space, but the reality is some development will take place. I don’t believe that 155 acres should be all open space, nor do I believe it should be all concrete development. The final plan should include all voices, and a solid plan should be settled this year. People have put their hearts into this issue and we have an opportunity to do the right thing. I don’t want to have put my tennis shoes on again on this issue. 3. There’s a great opportunity to create a new job base in Colorado by investing in the film industry to shoot Western films throughout our glorious state. No state can compete

L to R: Denver Mayor Michael B. Hancock, the Honorables Wellington E. Webb and Wilma J. Webb, sculptor Ed Dwight Photo by Bernard Grant

with the beauty of Colorado. We can put people to work and share that beauty worldwide. Let’s shoot these Western films on the Western Slope and in our rural communities. 4. I don’t know about you but every year the property tax on my house goes up. If I was on fixed income, I could not

pay these taxes, and I know it is a growing burden on homeowners. I’m going to have my firm work with businesses and community leaders to address this critical issue. The taxes are too high. 5. While I have faith in the superintendent of the Denver Public Schools, the last vote of

the Board of Education is a punch in the face to the kids in far northeast and northeast Denver, specifically Manual High School and Montbello. I’m also discouraged that teachers and students don’t know basic Black history. Can you believe a teacher of Black history at East High School did not know where the Blair-Caldwell African American Research Library is located? How many teachers and students could answer these elementary school questions. A.) What is the name of the first elected Black Colorado state legislator and what year was he elected? B.) Who was the first Black mayor in Colorado and when was he elected? C.) Name the first three Black lieutenant governors in the United States and name the states where they served.. Editor’s note: To view the Mayor Wellington Webb Statue Unveiling, visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_WLIfivrLF

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Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – May 2022

I’ve got the power Why solar is going to be the status quo in the next 15 years

By Barry Overton

t’s 2022 and by now pretty much most of us have heard of solar panels, but much like cryptocurrency, NFTs and the metaverse, we’re still trying to figure out how this technology will benefit us. Through this article I hope to shed some light in regards to the benefits of solar and why you should strongly consider it for your home or future home. Let’s talk about the most important benefit first of saving our environment. By utilizing solar, we reduce our carbon footprint. What that means is we’re reducing the total amount of greenhouse gases that are produced and released into the atmosphere. When you look over the Denver skyline and see that cloud of smog, you can’t help to be reminded of how emission is affecting our environment. By reducing pollution, it also helps to contribute to better air quality that goes hand in hand with better health outcomes for society as a whole. Another area to consider are the benefits that directly affect

you as a homeowner. By having solar panels, it could ultimately reduce or eliminate your monthly electric bill. Imagine not having a monthly electric bill. For example, if on average between now and 2042, your monthly electric bill was $200 per month. What if through the usage of solar panels that was a debt that you could eliminate? That’s $48,000 over the next 20 years that you will save. Here’s something else to consider, not only can solar panels reduce or eliminate your bill, but you could potentially earn money from them. Here’s how it works. If your panels produce more energy than you’re using, you can actually get a credit back from your power company. It’s referred to as net metering and in essence the utility company becomes your customer. How cool is that? Let’s talk tax credits. Again, in a time when we’re seeing concerns about taxes going up, the ability to have the federal solar tax credit can be beneficial to a homeowner. The current tax credit for solar financing is 26% of the cost of the system and that is set to drop in the coming years to 22%. As more people become conscious of solar, there will be less of a tax benefit, so the sooner you purchase solar panels the better. As we know, utility costs for electric and gas are constantly rising. By having solar, you pro-

tect yourself against those rising energy costs with electricity. Traditional energy costs tend to fluctuate due to the changes in fuel prices, but with solar that is not a concern. Then there comes the option of leasing versus owning. Just like in anything that we rent or own is always better to own your solar panels. At that point everything is yours, which includes the power and the benefits of the power.

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – May 2022

Now, while I’ve often heard that solar panels will increase your property value with recent conversations that I’ve had with appraisers I’ve learned that in the current market, the value does not raise substantially, but as more homes are equipped with solar and it becomes the norm, there will be a significant level of value added to homes with solar versus those that do not have solar. So, whether you are on the fence about solar or you just don’t know enough about it to make a decision, the best piece of advice I could give is to research and learn more because solar is coming. It will be the norm and there’s the ability to save significantly now and for many years to come. Editor’s note: Barry Overton is a licensed Real Estate eXp Realty, LLC. He has been an agent since 2001, and started investing in real estate in 1996. For more information, email: barrysellsdenver@ msn.com or call 303-668-5433.

HATS OFF TO L to R: Dylan James, the Honorable Wilma J. Webb, 2020 CWHF Inductee Rosalind “”Bee” Harris, Tyrell James and CWHF Chair Barbara Beckner...Photo by Jay Weise

DUS Publisher Inducted into the CWHF Denver Urban Spectrum publisher Rosalind “Bee” Harris was inducted last month into the Colorado Women’s Hall of Fame class of 2020 with nine other inductees. She was escorted by former First Lady of Denver Wilma J. Webb and accompanied by her grandsons. Photo by Jay Weise

Denver Film Welcomes Five New Board Members; Appoints Executive Leadership Team Denver Film, the membership-based, 501(c)(3) nonprofit cultural institution that produces film events throughout the year, including the awardwinning Denver Film Festival and the popular summertime series Film on the Rocks, as well as operates the Sie FilmCenter, announced the addition of five new members to its Board of Directors. In addition, the Denver Film Board elected its Executive Committee for the coming year. The new board members deliver a diverse range of experience and expertise: Amanda Blaurock is the co-founder and executive director of the

Village Exchange Center. She has expertise in growth, accountability, and turnaround in both the private and public sectors. A mission-based leader, Blaurock is known for innovative risk taking, creative problem solving for complex societal challenges and for fiscal accountability. Through a 20year journey of representing the United States government, Fortune 100 companies and family offices and co-founding and scaling an innovative nonprofit, she has developed a unique personal and professional accountability for relationship management resulting in client and philanthropic investments. Tom Downey is a regulatory attorney and shareholder at Ireland Stapleton with significant

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HATS OFF TO experience as both a government official and a private practice attorney. The majority of his practice consists of advising and representing corporate clients in the administrative, transactional, and disciplinary processes related to liquor licensing, legalized marijuana, and professional licenses governed by the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies. He also represents investors, creditors, developers, intellectual property holders, and others in and around licensed industries. Downey, who also served as president of the Children’s Museum of Denver, has chaired the boards of the Colorado Nonprofit Association and the Colorado Children’s Campaign and currently serves on the board of Civic Canopy. Sandy Holmes has been involved in entertainment, marketing and strategy working with both studios and the independent cinema community. As Co-CEO of Screen Insider, providing independent theatres their next generation cinema toolkit, or at 2656 Marketing, a company she cofounded in Los Angeles, the goal remains providing the best marketing tools available for cinema owners to reach the movie-going public. She also created a mobile marketing company 15 years ago, Phaz2, that introduced SMS and MMS to various sectors, including the newspaper industry by utilizing the vast content resources of The Village Voice. Sylvia Lambe is founder and CEO of Lambe PR LLC, a public relations company that specializes in promoting cultural and racial equity projects,

is a BBC award-winning broadcast producer and journalist with more than 20 years of experience in communications. Her media career began in postcommunist Poland at one of the first state deregulated radio stations. After relocating to Denver from the UK in 2017, she has worked for a wide range of organizations including; The Smithsonian’s National Museum of African History and Culture Black Pride, Colorado, NAACP, and The DROP 104.7. Lambe has also created a RMPBS documentary film celebrating Dr. Justina Ford, Colorado’s first licensed female Black doctor, and produced live TV productions for the Juneteenth Music Festival and Youth Violence Prevention Week. Nicole Maholic is an account director for Salesforce.com, one of the largest software companies in the world, Maholic consults with enterprise retail organizations on their marketing, commerce, sales and service strategies. At Salesforce, she is a member of OutForce, one of several equality groups at SFDC that empowers underrepresented groups in the LGBTQIA community and encourages them to bring their authentic selves to work. A published poet, writer and artist, and a longtime patron of the arts and film, she holds a Bachelor of Arts in Fine Arts for Painting and a Bachelor of Science in Broadcasting Communications from the University of Tennessee. The new board members bring the Denver Film board to 19 directors led by the recently elected executive committee that include Chairman Chad Jimenez, attorney with Ballard

Spahr LLP; Vice Chair Karen Brody, a judge in the Second Judicial District; Secretary Megan Lindstrom, senior director of Operations at the Global Down Syndrome Foundation; and Treasurer Micah GurardLevin, Director of Community Impact for Liberty Global.

Denver Health Foundation Announces New Leadership Crystal Potter Rivera is the new executive director of the Denver Health Foundation. Rivera succeeds Linda Ford, who resigned the position after nearly three years to pursue part-time consulting work and ease into retirement. Ford’s last day with the organization was April 1. Rivera joined the Denver Health Foundation in 2012 and has served as associate executive director for the past two years. She has more than 20 years of experience in nonprofit management, fundraising, and communications, and has generated significant funds from foundations, corporations, and individual donors for a range of Colorado nonprofits diverse in size and scope. A Denver native, Rivera earned a bachelor’s degree in sociology from Columbia University. Denver Health Foundation also welcomes two new members to its board of directors. Colin Barclay is a Partner at Delta-v Capital and has been with the firm since 2015. He leads investments in the application software and information services markets. Barclay received his M.B.A. from the Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth and his

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – May 2022

A.B. in psychology from Harvard University. Kwame Spearman is coowner and CEO of Tattered Cover Bookstore. He is a management, operations and strategy professional who previously served in global expansion leadership positions at B.Good and Knotel; as a management consultant at Bain & Company; and as deputy press secretary for former U.S. Sen. Mark Udall’s 2008 campaign. Spearman is a graduate of Columbia University, Yale Law School, and Harvard Business School. He also serves on the board of directors for Citywide Banks, the Denver Public Schools Foundation, the Downtown Denver Partnership, and the Colorado Education Initiative. About the Denver Health Foundation Denver Health Foundation helps donors with diverse interests make a comprehensive impact on the health, social, and economic well-being of the greater Denver area by supporting the exceptional care provided by Denver Health. The Denver Health Foundation is an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation that operates separately from Denver Health and Hospital Authority and has its own governing structure, board of directors and by-laws. Founded in 1988, Denver Health Foundation raises private funds that support Denver Health and Hospital Authority in its role to sustain and advance the health and wellbeing of Denver, Colorado and the Rocky Mountain Region. For more information, visit www.denverhealthfoundation.org.

COMMUNITY NOTES

Arvada Center Explores Dynamics of Family, Class, and Race in Stick Fly The Arvada Center for the Arts and Humanities continues the 2022 Black Box Repertory Theatre season with a production of Stick Fly by Lydia R. Diamond, a play about love, belonging, class, and the universal theme of family. A play that puts the LeVay family and their guests under the microscope. Focused on an upper-class family in Martha’s Vineyard, Stick Fly mixes elements of family drama with moments of ruthless comedy that punctuate how families grow, mature, and navigate relationships and the expectations that come with them. With Stick Fly’s focus being an upper-class Black family, Diamond effortlessly blends conversations of the interconnectedness of race and class

Kristina Fountaine (Cheryl) with Constance Swain (Taylor), Abner Genece (Joe) and Lavour Addison (Kent) Photo by Amanda Tipton Photography

The Arvada Center remains committed to health and safety for artists, actors, patrons, staff, and volunteers. Health guidelines are regularly updated as new information becomes available - please check the Arvada Center website before visiting to ensure an easy and healthy experience.

About the Arvada Center for the Arts and Humanities

with everyday dialogue that reflects the values of any American family. “I would argue that maybe it is not necessarily “unfamiliar” but certainly deserving of our (meaning everyone’s) attention,” says Jada Suzanne Dixon, the director of this production. “The characters take turns being examined and being the examiner; of themselves, their privilege, and its many masks,

and ultimately, their place in this family.” Editor’s note: Performed in repertory, Stick Fly by Lydia R. Diamond plays at the Black Box Theatre through May 19. It is directed by Jada Suzanne Dixon and Lynne Collins as the artistic director. Tickets start at $45. To purchase tickets to Stick Fly, visit the webpage at https://arvadacenter.org/events/stick-fly.

Since its founding in 1976, the Arvada Center for the Arts and Humanities has produced, curated, and created nationalcaliber arts, humanities, and education programs. From producing award-winning plays and musicals, curating intriguing gallery exhibitions, and creating engaging educational programs for tens of thousands of students a year, the Arvada Center provides a place of enlightenment and entertainment for all people who visit. The Arvada Center for the Arts

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Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – May 2022

COMMUNITY NOTES and Humanities is generously supported in part by the City of Arvada, the Scientific and Cultural Facilities District (SCFD), Colorado Creative Industries, and the National Endowment for the Arts.

Choir Boy Explores a Coming of Age Drama Pharus doesn’t fit in at The Charles R. Drew Prep School for Boys, a prestigious academy dedicated to the education of young black men. Despite embodying the strong, ethical morals the school promotes, being gay has made him an outsider within its hallowed halls. But this year, his talent and perseverance have paid off with a chance to lead the school’s choir, a position where he may finally have the opportunity to redefine himself as a leader and a confident young man. With its uplifting music and electrifying dance routines, Choir Boy will inspire you to raise your voice and cheer as one student boldly stands up to the traditions that seek to silence him. This tender, yet invigorating coming-of-age musical drama was the Broadway debut of Oscar-winning screenwriter Tarell Alvin McCraney (Moonlight), whose deeply human storytelling illuminates the chaotic collision of masculinity, tradition and self-discovery on the path to adulthood. Editor’s note: Choir Boy by Tarell Alvin McCraney is directed by Jamil Jude runs through May 29 at the Kildtrom Theatre. For tickets and more information, visit https://www.denvercenter.org/ticke ts-events/choir-boy/

NEWSED Announces Return of the Largest Cultural Celebration in Colorado 33rd Annual Cinco De Mayo Festival: May 7 & 8, 2022 Civic Center Park will again come alive the first weekend in May with the sights, sounds, eats, and culture that is

Denver’s largest cultural event in the state: the 33rd annual Cinco De Mayo ‘Celebrate Culture’ festival. The event, which began as a small celebration, has grown into one of the largest Cinco De Mayo events in the world. Cinco de Mayo, celebrated by Latinos and non-Latinos across the country, commemorates the victory of a heroic people and their struggle for freedom. On May 5, 1862, in the town of Puebla, the outnumbered Mexican army defeated French forces providing the momentum and national confidence to drive foreign power from their country. Cinco de Mayo is a celebration of freedom and culture. “The event is all about bringing people together and highlighting the beauty and tradition of the Latino culture,” said Andrea Barela, President and CEO of NEWSED. “Denver has such a rich Latino culture that is underrepresented in the event world. We are so proud to bring that to the heart of Denver, and highlight all the incredible Latino artists, musicians, performers, and businesses,” Barela added. The two-day celebration will feature a parade, three stages of musical and dance performances, Chihuahua races, a taco eating contest, a low rider car show, delicious food and drink, kids’ activities, artisans and crafters, a non-denominational Mass at 10 a.m. on Sunday, May 8, conducted by Confluence Ministries, and so much more. This colorful celebration supports an incredible local organization, NEWSED Community Development Corporation, which works tirelessly to promote the economic success of underserved populations in the seven-county Denver metro area through community development with a focus on affordable housing, small businesses and asset creation.

Directed by Jada Suzanne Dixon

Stick Fly is a play about a wealthy family on Martha’s Vineyard and what should be a relaxing summer weekend. But everything goes south when the LeVay brothers bring new girlfriends home to meet their wealthy and imposing parents. Secrets are uncovered and dynamics of race, class, and cultural expectations come into play.

NEW DATES!

APRIL 2 - May 19, 2022 Performed in repertory

Tickets: arvadacenter.org or 720.898.7200

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – May 2022

Letters, Opinions, Op-eds Continued from page 3

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bringing in more people, new business, and yes, more development. But with this change we should not lose sight of what makes Denver unique: our parks, open space, and beautiful mountain views. In November, Denver voters overwhelmingly supported keeping the former Park Hill Golf Course—which is currently protected by a conservation easement—from being turned into 155 acres of concrete. Yet despite the election results, the city has begun to plan the development of the property, all while keeping key members of the community excluded from the process. The city seems intent on ignoring the conservation easement (which they need a court order to remove) as well as the voices of Denver voters, which were heard loud and clear last November. Interestingly, the city commissioned its own study of the Park Hill Golf Course land, which found: “An analysis of existing park acreage shows that all three statistical neighborhoods, Northeast Park Hill, Clayton and Elyria-Swansea, are far below national and City averages for park acres per capita.” (Environmental, Parks, Open Space and Recreation Technical Assessment, April 2021) Yet, despite these conclusions, the city has engaged in a process driven by developers and staffed by people who do not live in Denver, to develop the majority of the open space. During the campaign to gut the existing conservation easement, Westside promised affordable housing and 60 acres of parks and open space. But the devil is in the details. Westside refused to define what type of affordable housing they would build and whether the park would be a contiguous piece of land or 1/4 acre plats parceled across the development. And Westside would not

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – May 2022

say whether those 60 acres included the 25 acres of the detention pond that is not usable for youth athletic fields or activities. In November, those neighborhoods identified in the study voted more than 66% in favor of open space and opposed the complete removal of the conservation easement. The city should listen to and value the opinions of the communities surrounding the former golf course, which are reflected in its own study. I’d be willing to bet the city will propose having an election in the spring of 2023 that drags this process on, and meanwhile, the land is drying up and continues to be used as an off-leash dog park. Here are my suggestions: 1. Westside works with the community to develop a plan to submit to the public, which is then vetted through public meetings throughout the city – this must include discussion about the conservation easement; 2. No less than 110 acres of contiguous open space separate from the 25 acres of detention pond; 3. Any and all Community Benefit Agreements must be attached to the land and cannot be changed if parcels of land are sold to other developers; 4. A definition of affordable housing must be written into the plan and include family housing so that our teachers, fire fighters, police officers and their families can live in the city in which they work. We know Denver needs more parks and open space and the study commissioned by the city confirms it. We also know we need more affordable family housing. Westside show us a plan, and meantime water the grass at the Park Hill Open Space. Editor’s note: Wellington E. Webb was the first African American mayor of Denver, Colorado, serving from 1991 to 2003.

In 2022, Black and Brown is the new Red, White, and Blue Op-ed by Deborah Richardson, Executive Director of ACLU Colorado In the 2021 off-year elections, less than 42% of Colorado’s registered voters cast ballots. In December of 2021, the New York Times noted: “American politics today is not really normal. It may instead be in the midst of a radical shift away from the democratic rules and traditions that have guided the country for a very long time.” I feel compelled to remind Black and Brown voters of their privilege and their power through the vote. We must exercise that power in the November 8, 2022, midterm elections—just eight months away.

For over a year, we have seen incident after incident that substantiates a concentrated effort to disenfranchise Black and Brown voters. Moreover, there is continuing rhetoric, despite any proven evidence, that the 2020 elections were “stolen.” Further, Congress continues to vote by party line, blocking legislation that actually serves the best interests of its constituencies. The New York Times article continues: “To be clear, this is not a movement against the Democratic party; it is movement against America herself, a democracy formed under the Constitution and its amendments realized and upheld by the power of the vote of all her citizens. In response to these false claims, an anti-democratic movement is sweeping the country in the form of voter suppression measures unlike any since before the Voting Rights Act of 1965.”

According to the February 9, 2022, Brennan Center for Justice report “legislators in twentyseven states have introduced, pre-filed, or carried over 250 bills with restrictive voting provisions” that specifically disenfranchise Black and Brown voters. Important lessons can be learned from the work in my home state of Georgia, powered by Stacey Abrams and the organization “Fair Fight”. Their preparations for the November 2020 Governor’s race focused on voter registration, and voter turnout of BIPOC groups and first-time voters. As a result, an unprecedented number of new Georgia voters elected Raphael Warnock and John Ossoff, respectively the first African American and first Jewish senators from Georgia, to represent the growing diversity of their state. The “Good Old Boys” see the handwriting on the wall. They are willing to do anything

to maintain power, even if it means destroying American democracy. They realize that Black and Brown voters, when joined with Asian Americans and progressive whites—is the new Red, White, and Blue. The future of democracy is in the hands of this new coalition. As Stacey Abrams warns us, we must stop participating in our own oppression. If not, our American democracy will become an American apartheid. This call to action is both an appeal and an alarm for Black and Brown Americans to fight for our democracy through informed use of our voting power. When announcing her 2022 campaign for Governor of Georgia, Abrams stated, “Opportunity and success should not be determined by background or access to power.” Black and Brown voters, know your power and know your access. So much is Continued on page 20

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Letters, Opinions, Op-eds Continued from page 19 up to us. We are the new Red, White, and Blue! Editor’s note: Deborah Richardson is the first African American Executive Director of ACLU Colorado. Founded in 1952, it is the state’s oldest and largest civil rights organization with a mission to protect, defend and extend the civil rights and civil liberties of all people in Colorado through litigation, education, and advocacy.

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Today, I have chosen to write as a way to meet the next marker in my healing journey–a journey that has been a mix of fear, compassion, isolation, healing and choice. I am writing this from a lens of kindness and resilience. Over my lifetime, I have often been more silent about my personal needs than was healthy. Part of this is because I am queer and Black with a biracial background, which means the world outside of my close circle is not always kind to people like me. But I am breaking self-silencing patterns and choosing to write this statement as a part of that challenge. Until now, I have been intentionally

silent about events that have occurred over the last few years, however I can no longer choose silence. I will not allow people to assume the role of author to my life. Speaking my truth is how I honor cherished relationships with my community members and set the record straight on stories that have been shared about me. Unfortunately, I let someone into my circle in 2018 that was abusive to me. At the time, I had read that warning signs of abuse are available early on, but I was not prepared for how hard it would be to confront or honor this fact. Instead, I dismissed these signs and actions because I thought it was a nice thing to do and for the sake of being “partnered,” though I don’t even know if that’s really the right word for what it was because of how unequal our dynamic was. Now I know that these kinds of sacrifices are hurtful to my self-worth. I experienced physical, psychological and emotional wounds as a result of being in connection with that person. Without giving much detail, physically I am healed but I have the internal/external scars that serve as a memory of being hit, thrown to the ground and more. Mentally, I am still making meaning of what happened and the non-physical wounds need more time and intervention to heal than the physical ones. I am also figuring out what it means to recover finan-

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Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – May 2022

cially. I am re-learning how to experience the security and joy I have worked hard to have in my personal circles. Though I can confidently say I am a survivor of intimate partner violence, I am choosing to let it change me for the positive. I can share that I am no longer triggered to the point of hiding in corners of my office at the mention of certain names or phrases. I still feel internally triggered but I am confident this, too, will subside with ongoing healing work. I also owe gratitude to my current partner with whom I have built a wonderfully supportive and growth-fostering relationship that allows me to practice giving and trusting while also asserting my needs. Even when I feel unsure about my own emotional recovery, the woman I love chooses me each day, and for that I am thankful. The future is never certain but I will forever cherish the current love

I receive which empowers me to heal. I want to be clear that abuse is never okay. It crosses all boundaries and presents in many forms. I encourage those who are being abused to remember they are valuable and lovable no matter what is being reinforced to them by others’ actions. I assert today that I will not continue to be bullied by the assumptions of others nor will I allow people to change and alter my story as that, too, is abusive. I will no longer tolerate abuse in any form. I am worthy of protection and support, and so are you. I am valuable and have lots to offer this world, and so do you. I have a voice and I choose to use it over silence, and so can you. I was always worthy and I know that now. Editor’s note: Dr. Tara Jae is cofounder of Black Pride Colorado and the founder and executive director of YouthSeen.

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The Temp CU once again comes up short with its selection of a presidential finalist Op-ed by James Michael Brodie

The Denver Broncos searched all over the country for a new quarterback to take their team into a different future, saying goodbye to a mediocre past. The team spared no expense in bringing the most qualified person into the fold, refusing to settle for a mere placeholder. Meanwhile, the University of Colorado looked around the country for a new leader to take it to another level. Ostensibly, the Board of Regents conducted a nationwide search to bring in a respected and qualified person. Denver landed Russell Wilson, who has proven credentials, while CU settled for a candidate whose background is lackluster and underqualified at best: whose track record is part of a history of underachievement regarding diversity, equity, and inclusion. In other words, CU has chosen to keep its Drew Lock. Meet the new boss. Same as the interim boss. Meet Todd Saliman, the finalist. A gentleman without a terminal degree, picked to lead the state’s major research institution. Meet the man who vowed that he was merely a placeholder, a temp.

Saliman was hired last June to replace disgraced CU President Mark Kennedy, who was dismissed by an 8-1 vote of the Regents after waves of protests made his employment untenable. Privately, some members acknowledged that they had erred in hiring Kennedy in 2019. Back then, Board unanimously advanced Kennedy as the sole “finalist,” never mentioning anyone else who had been under consideration. Sound familiar? When the Regents in June tabbed Saliman, a career employee, to serve on a solely interim basis, they stipulated in his contract that he would simply keep the seat warm until a real president could be found. According to a CU news release: “Saliman has said he will not apply for the permanent position.” Then came September. Regents Chairman Jack Kroll told the media that Saliman had changed his mind about the position, leading the Board to review its policies, finding a tidy loophole which stated that qualified internal candidates could apply as well as qualified external candidates. The Regents quietly amended Saliman’s contract, opening the door for him to keep the $850,000 job. On April 12, Saliman was introduced as the only finalist. And we will never know who else was in the running, what their credentials are, and what makes Saliman, someone who represents more of the same, better than the other candidates. It was not that long ago when the Colorado Open Meetings Law and the Colorado Open Records Act required public institutions to disclose the names of all finalists. Then the law was changed, allowing for the naming of only a single finalist. The Regents established a 19member committee, which included Regents Sue Sharkey and Lesley Smith, to conduct a

private search. They even hired Pennsylvania-based Storbeck Search to help them scour the nation. The committee reported that it had interviewed 10 candidates from seven states: seven women and three men, two candidates were people of color. The committee selected five candidates for final interviews. And then they announced that they were hiring the temp. Several CU faculty members, a few CU Boulder student groups, and others have reacted to this development with outrage, calling into question the Board’s selection process. Colorado Latino Leadership, Advocacy & Research Organization President Mario Carrera said former Colorado Lt. Gov. Joseph Garcia was excluded from the list of presidential finalists. I nominated former University of MarylandBaltimore County President Freeman R. Hrabowski, who had a 30-year record of success in the areas of diversity, inclusion, and academic excellence. We will never know whether either made the list. To be fair, Saliman has spent 30 years in public policy and higher education in Colorado. He worked in the state legislature, served under two Colorado governors, and oversaw CU’s budget operations for more than a decade. As a former member of the Colorado General Assembly, he spent four years on the Joint Budget Committee. He later ran a lobbying firm that represented several organizations, including the University of Colorado. All of this information is documented on his online resume. What is not mentioned are the degrees he has earned. Perhaps because there is only one, a bachelor’s degree from CU-Boulder. And I get it. He’s a good guy. People seem to like him. Yet his academic credentials are not what one would expect of

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – May 2022

an institution that claims to be an academic juggernaut. My dear friend, activist and CU graduate George Walker, has long extolled the notion that the person who leads a major university should have some form of a graduate degree. “They certify who is a doctor, who is a lawyer. And the best CU can come up with after a national search is a White male with only a bachelor’s degree. It doesn’t seem rational,” he said. Walker called the selection process a travesty, and pointed out the glaring reality of CU’s intentions, failings, and double standards. He argued that it would be very doubtful that CU would hire a person of color with these slim accomplishments. “You know what this means, and it is very clear,” Walker said. “CU does not want Blacks or Latinos on that campus, not as students, not as leaders. There is no other way to read this.” So here we are. Instead of establishing a clear path to a different, more inclusive future, we are left with more of the same. Here we are with a person who has been part of a regime that oversees a flagship campus in which 1 percent of the entire student body is African American, while the 70 percent Black football team looks more like an HBCU squad. Here we are with no clear vision of how to address this embarrassingly intentional disparity or the hostile climate those few students face. And here we are with an increasingly ineffectual Board of Regents doing the bare minimum to advance CU to the next level. The Regents had promised the community a transparent process, one that we hoped would bring us a Russell Wilson. Once again, we are left with the results of a bait and switch, a shell game. Sound and fury. Signifying nothing….

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – May 2022

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“REST IN PEACE” Phenomenal, Impactful, Purpose-driven The Quiet Giant’s Legacy

Gloria Travis Tanner July 16, 1934 - April 4, 2022 Born on July 16, 1934, Gloria Travis Tanner was the third child of Marcellus and Blanche Travis. Eventually, seven children were born to the family: Marcellus Travis, Jr. (deceased), Victoria Travis Jackson (deceased), Betty Blanche Travis Dunson (deceased), Hattie Helen Travis Clay (deceased), Joyce Ann Travis Spearman (deceased) and Violet Ann Travis Ricks (Atlanta). Gloria’s parents were modest, dependable and Christian people, who instilled in their children the importance of being respectful, socially responsible and loving to others. Achieving higher education was the focus of family discussions. Mr. and Mrs. Travis were role models to not only their children but to the greater community, teaching that could accomplish their dreams with determination and tenacity. Gloria demonstrated this early in life, as well as exhibiting her family, friends and neighbors.

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A child during the era of Jim Crow in Atlanta, Georgia, Gloria was inspired by her mother, stating, “My mother did a lot of work in the community, and I followed in her lead…Growing up in the South, where there were colored waterfountains, there were bathrooms you couldn’t go to, and seeing all the nonsense things that were going on at that time, I think it made me want to try to make a difference.” Upon graduation from David T. Howard High School in Atlanta, Gloria joined the United States Air Force and served her country for three years. During her service, she met Theodore (Ted) Ralph Tanner, the love of her life, and they entered holy matrimony on December 29, 1955. They moved to Denver, Colorado, where their children, Terrance Ralph Tanner, Tanvis Renee Tanner, and Tracey Lynne Tanner, were born. In 1959, Gloria founded The Reginas, a social and civic organization. Before attending college, Gloria was an administrative assistant for the Office of Hearings and Appeals at the United States Department of the Interior from 1967 to 1972. She reported for the Denver Weekly News, an African American newspaper, from 1972 to 1976, and worked as a real estate agent. She earned a bachelor of arts degree in political science (Magna Cum Laude) from Metropolitan State University of Denver in 1974, and in 1976, a master’s degree in urban affairs from the University of Colorado. She was a graduate of the American Management Association Program for Women in Top Managerial Positions and the Women in Leadership Program at the J. F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University. Gloria began her career in politics in 1976 as an executive assistant for Lt. Governor George Brown. In 1978, she became executive director of communications for state Senator Regis Groff. In 1985, she won a seat in the Colorado House of Representatives, and in 1994, she was elected to the seat of outgoing Senator Groff. Gloria was the first African American woman to serve as a Colorado state senator and the second African American to be elected to a leadership position in the state House where she was chair of the Minority Caucus. During her 17 years in public service, she served as a member of the senate’s joint budget committee, initiated and sponsored legislation on key issues such as marital discrimination in the workplace, parental responsibility, worker’s compensation, prostate cancer screenings, civil rights, Colorado’s Safe Haven Law protecting newborns unwanted by mothers, and parental rights for adoptive parents. Gloria obtained $250,000 to start restoration work for the Dearfield community, a historically Black-only town in Weld County. After retirement, Gloria continued to lead. She worked to bring more people of color into politics. In 2000, she established the Senator Gloria Tanner Leadership and Training Institute for future Black Women Leaders of Colorado. She was cofounder of the Washington, D.C.-based National Organization of Black Elected Legislators, the lead founder of Colorado Black Women for Political Action, past chair of the Colorado Caucus of Black Elected Officials, and cofounder of the Colorado Black Round Table. In 1998, she served as president of the National Organization of Black Elected Legislators/Women. This lifelong political activism garnered Gloria numerous recognition and awards, including “2000 Legislator of the Year” from the Colorado Association of Community Centered Boards; co-winner of 1998 “Legislator of the Year” from the Colorado Trial Lawyers Association; and “Leadership Denver” award from the Metro Denver Chamber of Commerce, among others. In 2002, she was inducted into the Colorado Women’s Hall of Fame. Gloria had a life-long calling of community service. She was a member of the Denver Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., and president of the Delta Research and Education Foundation in Denver. Believing in the importance of women’s voices in state government, she accomplished this for women and minorities through her “open-door policy,” opening her home to all for advice, tasty food and nurturing. Gloria never met a stranger. She was a mentor to all, who continue her legacy and pass it on to future generations. In 1982, Ted predeceased Gloria. She is survived by and was a loving mother to three children: Terrance Ralph Tanner, Tanvis Renee Tanner (Todd), and Tracey Lynn Tanner (Commasau). She was the beloved grandmother of Tiffani Tanner, Terrance Tanner, Dahir Adam, Tracie Gloria Tanner, LaToya Phillips, Torrance Phillips, and Teddy Phillips. Gloria was truly blessed with five great grandchildren: Dafni Salazar, LeAysia Tanner, Carter Neal, Aspen Slankard, and Taryn Garner. Also, she is survived by one sister who will always cherish her memory, Attorney Violet Travis Ricks. In addition, nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, and friends are grateful to have experienced Gloria’s presence and purpose-driven life.

Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – May 2022

“REST IN PEACE”

In Celebration, Honor & Thanksgiving for the Life of

Thomas Edward Robinson December 15, 1945 – April 4, 2022 Thomas Edward Robinson, beloved husband, father and grandfather, respected teacher, coach, white hat referee, athletics commissioner, sports official, and stalwart advocate for equitable advancements in education, athletics and the arts, took his honored place with the Ancestors on April 4, 2022 at the age of 76 with his family at his side. Tom was born December 15, 1945, to Beverly and Tommie Robinson and raised in Denver, Colorado. He attended Sacred Heart and Regis Jesuit High School, where he studied Latin, was named to the football All-State team, and was Prom King in 1964 (with his Prom Queen, Cleo Parker, who later became his wife). A 1969 graduate of Colorado State University (CSU), Tom was an All-American running back and corner back, which earned him the nickname “The Bomb.” He also ran track and played basketball, while earning his degree in mathematics. He subsequently became a recruiter for the CSU football team, and later a CSU Board member. After his graduation from CSU, Tom tried out for the NFL San Francisco 49ers, but a devastating football injury brought him back to Denver where he married Cleo Jo Ann Parker in 1970 (with whom he co-founded Cleo Parker Robinson Dance in that same year) and began his distinguished 31-year teaching and coaching career with Regis Jesuit High School. At Regis, Tom taught all levels of mathematics, including AP calculus. He was assistant coach in football, basketball and track (1969- 83), the varsity basketball coach (1983-93), and varsity golf coach (1993-95). He earned his master’s degree in public administration from the University of Denver in 1982. Tom created the Regis Diversity program, was named a Regis Teacher of the Year, and served on the Regis Board of Directors. A scholarship in his name has received over $500,000 in funding. Many of the nation’s most iconic members of the civic, corporate, athletic, and nonprofit communities remember his firm but patiently guiding hand in the classroom and on the field, and the impact he had on shaping their futures. Years after leaving school, many of them still affectionally refer to him as “Coach”. Following his years at Regis, Tom became the associate commissioner for CHSAA (Colorado High School Activities Association). Hired by former commissioner Bob Ottewill in 2001, Tom was just the second person of color to serve as an administrator in the 103-year history of CHSAA, where he was brought on mostly to improve the professionalism of Colorado’s high school sports officiating. One of his priorities was also to work for equity between boys and girls in terms of resources, number of contests and educational outreach. He got a bylaw passed that said if any official signed up to referee the boys’ state basketball tournament games, they had to referee the girls’ games as well. During his 20 years with CHSAA, Tom administered boys and girls golf outreach programs including equitable golf locations for both boys and girls while securing top-notch locations to showcase the talent of girl golfers. Tom also oversaw the outreach, education, support, and recognition of thousands of high school officials and rallied the membership around sportsmanship initiatives across the state. Tom worked tirelessly from the inside out, strengthening the level of understanding and respect among officials, coaches, athletes, and fans. He was a constant visionary, building a culture of equity, innovation and inclusion. He was the first CHSAA administrator to assign a female official to a boys’ basketball Final Four game. He was pivotal in developing a highly emulated sportsmanship program that has earned recognition based on the mantra, “Cheer for Your Team.” Tom was truly an institution and a role model at the association, and widely respected for his exceptional passion and dedication. Tom’s commitment to honesty, fairness and integrity were conveyed in all aspects of his life, encouraging an aspiration to excellence over the quest for personal fame. The recipient of myriad accolades and awards, he remained quietly humble and focused on the support and advancement of others. He was named the National Football Foundation Hall of Fame’s Outstanding College Official in 2008. He was also awarded the John Adams Officiating Award, sponsored jointly by the CHSAA, Mountain West Conference (MWC) and Western Athletic Conference (WAC). His most recent honor was the 2020 Lloyd Gaskill Award from the Colorado High School Coaches Association for his outstanding efforts in support of Colorado high school athletics. From 1975 to 2000, he was a collegiate football official for the WAC and MWC, and subsequently served as replay official in the CFO West, which serves the Big 8 and Big 12, Mountain West and Southland conferences. He worked the Bluebonnet, Fiesta, Rose, Cotton, Gator, Independence, and Citrus Bowls. Prior to that he was a high school football official from 1969 to 1975. He was given the Outstanding Service Award from the MWC upon his retirement from on-field coaching. He subsequently moved into a position as a collegiate instant replay official, which led to his being awarded the officiating duties for the 2017 NCAA title game between Clemson and Alabama. In 2019, he became responsible for all instant replay officials in those conferences. Having begun, in 1969, as one of the first African-American sports officials, Tom’s 40-year career as a coach and referee, eventually led to his being named chair of the National Association of Sports Officials (NASO) Board of Directors. Barry Mano, current NASO president, shares, “Tom was such a nice man, soft-spoken and thoughtful. He was one of the very few board members who was asked to serve a second set of two-year terms. He graciously accepted to serve again, even though he was on his retirement track when I asked him to rejoin our board.” Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – May 2022

“REST IN PEACE”

He and his wife, Cleo Parker Robinson, shared nearly 52 years of marriage, with Tom as a dedicated behind-the-scenes pillar of Cleo’s own dream – the creation of what has become a 52-year icon of dance in America, Cleo Parker Robinson Dance (CPRD). Tom shared the vision, along with Cleo and her family and a community of cultural activists, emerging out of the Black Arts movement. He was a co-founder, board member and business manager for the organization for many years, addressing every aspect of a nonprofit arts entity. He worked diligently to ensure a permanent home for the company in the historic Shorter AME Building (at the corner of 20th and Washington in Denver’s Five Points community) and a strong financial foundation. Every concert, every tour, his steadying hand and calm presence were always evident. For 52 years, artists, staff, technicians, and audiences always knew they’d see Tom in the theater whenever his own extensive schedule allowed. Tom is pre-deceased by his parents Beverly J. (Maxey) Robinson and Tommie E. Robinson; sister Diane Robinson; aunts and uncles, Lovie Maxey, Wilma Maxey, Charlene Maxey, Dorothy Maxey, Helen Maxey, Marie Maxey, Betty Maxey, and Robert (Sonny) Maxey; niece Cherish Batie, great-nephews, Mallan Robinson Jr. and Ian J. Wallace; brothers-in-law, John Whalon Parker, Wrandell (Randy) B. Parker, James J. Wallace, Jr. and sister-in-law, Elizabeth Tansiel; and other family members. Tom is survived by his beloved wife, Cleo, son Malik Robinson (Olga Vianey Gonzalez); grandchildren, Ximalma, Xareni and Nezahualcoyotl; nieces, Leslie, Maia, Marina, Zorana and Shea; nephews, Mallan, Dimitrios, Wrandell Jr.; Cousin Jesse Green; mother-in-law Reina S. Parker; sisters-in-law, Leslie Sue Parker-Wallace, Athanasia Parker, Mary Sotelo, and Samantha Parker; brothersin-law, Nicholas Parker, Maurice Warfield, Philip Lowe, and Preston Lowe; and a host of other Robinson, Maxey and Parker family members.

Precious Memories

James Levert Bracken, Sr. February 5, 1926 – March 26, 2022

James “Jim” Levert Bracken, Sr. was the first of eight children born to Bert Bracken and Nellie Stone on February 5, 1926, and Gibsland, Louisiana. He was the big brother to Joyce, Jackie, Walter, Eddie, Roy, Herbert, and Floyd. As a young man, Jim moved to Hoisington, Kansas to work on the railroad. His work eventually led him to Denver, Colorado. While attending a school dance at Manual High School, he met Lillie Mae Sherman. They were married in 1947 and were the proud parents of Linda Darlene and James, Jr. Jim always said what a tremendous blessing it was to be married to the love of his life for 75 years. Jim proudly served in the United States Air Force and was honorably discharged at the end of his tenure. By profession, Jim was a supervisor with the City and County of Denver, retiring with over 30 years of service. Jim had a servant’s heart, and he did so with dignity and grace. After retiring, Jim decided he really wasn’t ready to retire so he began a new career as a Volunteers of America food driver for 20 more years. Jim was an active member in his community serving in several clubs and organizations. He was best known for his role as a Past Potentate with the Shriners, Syrian Temple #49. One of his fondest memories as a Shriner was participating in local parades. He had the opportunity to s how off his beautiful red Cadillac convertible or his gray Creighton collector vehicle waving and tossing candy into the crowd. He was also heavily involved with the Astro Jets. He will always be remembered around the neighborhood as “Diamond Jim the man with admirable style and flash.” They say you could see his large diamond-studded jewelry from blocks away. Jim and Lillie were major socialize and enjoyed many different activities. They enjoyed engaging in their family reunion events, participating in activities like modeling and DJing. They love taking family cruise trips, tailgating the Denver Broncos games, spending every weekend at the Denver flea market hard bargaining consumers. Jim and Lily were lifelong travelers. As mentioned, Jim and really enjoyed cruising to various islands and not to disappoint, they would have to show up dressed alike. James and Linda will remember their visit to California each year to visit family, drive through redwood forest, and spending the day at Disneyland. When the children were grown with families of their own, Jim invested in a camper van and he didn’t really travel on the open road along with the grandchildren and great grandchildren. It became the new tradition, plan in 1 to 2 extended vacations per year, packing up the family and driving state to state stopping at scenic and historic landmarks along the way. Lily was always behind the camcorder capturing every memorable moment. Jim loved to dance and what a loving site to watch he and Lillie disco! He loved western culture in with dress the part when taking his grandchildren to the annual Denver stock show and Bill Pickett rodeo to watch bull riding and cattle drives. Jim love sharing the true love story of he and Lillie for 75 years. He loved his family deeply and worked hard to provide lasting experiences, memories, and opportunities. He was always willing to be a source of support it was always a man of his word. Jim will be greatly missed by all who has the honor of knowing him. Jim is preceded by his parents, Bert Bracken and Nellie Stone, and his siblings Joyce Norwood, Jackie, Walter, Eddie, Roy, Floyd and Herbert Bracken. Those left to cherishes memory are his beloved wife of 75 years Lillie Sherman Bracken; children Linda Bracken-Aggers and James Levert Bracken, Jr; his grandchildren, George Goodall (Michelle), Rodrick Bracken, Gina Guerra (Manuel), Michael Bracken, Brittney Bracken-Bentford, Lauryn Bracken, Paula Pierce; his great grandchildren, Brianna “Breezy” Groves, Michael “Mikey” Groves, Mikal Goodall, Madison Goodall, Xander Bentford, Celeste Mowrer, and Justus Brakhop; and a host of numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – May 2022

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NEWSVIEWS

DPS receives grant for more than $500,000 to provide additional school-based mental health support Denver Public Schools (DPS) announced recently that The Caring for Denver Foundation recently announced that they are awarding the school district a grant of $596,200 to strengthen and expand mental health services in schools. This announcement builds on the district’s ongoing initiative to provide additional mental health support for students. “These funds will go a long way to increase and improve the support that our schools will be able to provide to our scholars,” said Dr. Alex Marrero, Superintendent for Denver Public Schools. “Just like school districts across the country, we are seeing an increase in students who need additional support to feel safe and secure. Without this, learning can be difficult.” DPS will use these funds over a 36-month period. The majority of the money will fund three full-time positions; one intake specialist and two therapeutic service providers. The intake specialists will offer case management and resource referrals for one of our pathways schools. Therapeutic service providers are social workers and school psychologists who provide therapeutic services to students. The district will use the remaining grant funds to train 20 school social workers and school psychologists in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy (TF-CBT). This training will expand current culturally responsive, trauma-informed practices. Community-based mental health partners currently working in schools are continuing to provide services to students.

School staff can reach out to their assigned mental health provider for more information on service options. Those schools who do not have a current partnership can reach out to Denver Health School-Based Health Centers at 720-424-2050. Editor’s note: Caring for Denver Foundation was founded and funded with overwhelming voter support to address Denver’s mental health and substance misuse needs.

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Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – May 2022

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