DENVER, Colorado — Researchers in Denver presented new findings this week from the state’s ongoing racial equity study, revealing extensive historical discrimination against Black residents. Mandated by a 2024 state law, the study examines the economic and social impacts of systemic racism in Colorado’s history. The project, led by the Black Coloradan Racial Equity Study Commission and chaired by Senate President James Coleman, is ahead of schedule and under budget for its historical phase but faces a $550,000 funding gap for the economic analysis portion.
Researcher Scott Spillman said a draft of the full report is expected by next November. The team has already completed studies on topics including criminal justice and banking discrimination during the New Deal era. Researcher Melissa Jones found that Black Coloradans experienced higher rates of botched executions and incarceration from the 1870s to the 1940s. Another researcher, John Valdez, documented a Denver “gentleman’s agreement” among realtors and banks that restricted Black residents from purchasing homes outside certain neighborhoods until the 1970s.
Community sessions have already taken place in Denver and Pueblo, with more planned in Boulder, Durango, and Colorado Springs.
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History Colorado – Unrated
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