The Romance of Colorado Statehood: Conversations on the Indian Trauma and Tragedy of Colorado

SAVE THE DATE: The Romance of Colorado Statehood: Conversations on the Indian Trauma and Tragedy of Colorado 150 

April 17-18, 2026 | Free for Attendees

Iliff School of Theology | Shattuck Hall | In Person Only

Two days of conversations and consultations. 

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Sponsored by: Iliff (sponsoring host), America 250 Colorado 150 Commission, Chinook Fund

August 1, 2026, marks the 150th anniversary of Colorado’s statehood. This anniversary offers us a chance to reflect upon the land, the territory, and the creation of the State of Colorado, reminding us of the varied experiences of all who today call Colorado home. 

In what ways have we romanticized Colorado’s statehood? The impact of statehood on Indigenous communities is far from glorious. This land was cleared to become a “safe” home for settlers amidst gold rush and the Civil War. With fears of Confederate expansion and Union protection, Indian lives became meaningless. As a part of Iliff’s Indigenous commitments, we are hosting “The Romance of Colorado Statehood: The Indian Trauma and Tragedy of Colorado 150” on April 17-18, 2026, in Shattuck Hall.

This free event will feature a panel of Indigenous voices, including community organizers, lawyers, and educators. We will engage in some social activism training and organizing during both days. Conversations will take place around food, with meals being provided for attendees. 

• Rick Williams (Cheyenne/Lakota), People of the Sacred Land, President; retired Exec. Dir. of American Indian College Fund.
• Nita Gonzales (Chicana), Former Head of Escuela Tlatelolco, community activist, and daughter of the Chicano Movement, continuing the legacy of the Crusade for Justice while guiding environmental and historical justice through the River Sisters Congreso. 
• Sky Roosevelt Morris (Apache/Shawnee), Colorado AIM, Four Winds American Indian Council
• Tink tinker (wazhazhe), facilitator

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