LGBTQ Denver 

A Celebration of Denver’s 2SLGBTQIA+ History with author Phil Nash 

Thursday, May 1st
6:00 pm MT at the Iliff School of Theology

Register now

Join Iliff School of Theology for an insightful and engaging event exploring the rich tapestry of LGBTQ history right here in Denver! We are honored to host author Phil Nash, whose acclaimed work, “ LGBTQ Denver’”, offers a vital look at the individuals, movements, and milestones that have shaped our city’s vibrant LGBTQ+ community.

This special event will feature:

• A compelling presentation by Phil Nash, bringing to life the stories and experiences documented in his book, illuminating the struggles, triumphs, and resilience of LGBTQ+ Denverites.
• An open and engaging discussion following the presentation, bringing together Iliff students, faculty, allies, and community supporters. This will be a crucial opportunity to connect with the past, understand the present, and consider the future of LGBTQ+ inclusion and justice in our city and beyond.

As a theological school committed to justice, equity, and advocating freedom, Iliff recognizes the profound importance of understanding the histories of marginalized communities. This event offers a unique chance to learn directly from a leading voice on LGBTQ+ Denver history and to engage in meaningful dialogue about its relevance to our present and future.

Whether you are a student, an ally, a member of the LGBTQ+ community, or simply interested in learning more about Denver’s diverse history, we warmly invite you to attend.

Event Details:

• Date: May 1, 2025
• Time: 6:00 pm
• Location: IIliff School of Theology, Shattuck Hall
• Featuring: Author Phil Nash, LGBTQ Denver
• Followed by: Discussion with students, allies, and supporters

This is a free event and open to the public. Iliff students will receive a signed, free copy of the book. 

Join us as we explore our local history and strengthen our commitment to a more inclusive and just Denver. Space is limited, reserve your spot today!

Reserve Your Space Now

About LGBTQ Denver by Phil Nash, Foreword by Dr. Tom Noel

Denver is the Mile High City, the Queen City of the Plains, and the Gateway to the West. Today, the city attracts thousands of new residents each year, including the LGBTQ people from the rural West and digital nomads from around the nations seeking a welcoming community where they can thrive. In LGBTQ Denver Nash showcases how the city evolved from its pre-1970s history of rebuking gay people to a magnet for LGBTQ residents and the capital of the first state to elect and reelect the nation’s first openly gay governor.

About Phil Nash

A Michigan native, Phil Nash made Denver his home in 1976 and launched a career in LGBTQ activism, journalism, and organizational leadership. He helped found, and was the first staff member of the Gay Community Center of Colorado (today known as The Center on Colfax). He later became editor of Out Front, Colorado’s leading LGBTQ publication in the early 1980s. He also wrote for The Advocate, Westword, and other local and national news outlets. He helped found and served as first board chair of the Colorado AIDS Project. As an out gay professional, Nash later worked in a series of senior communications roles in civic and philanthropic organizations, including as an advisor to Denver Mayor Federico Peña. In LGBTQ Denver, Nash documents more than five decades of Denver’s LGBTQ history, much of which he witnessed firsthand, reported, and photographed. “I wrote LGBTQ Denver as yet another way to help build a stronger community,” says Nash, “especially at a time when darker forces in our society want to turn back the clock and erase the evidence of our existence.”