Gay scene in denver

A Look at Denver LGBTQ+ History

Denver has long served as a haven for individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds. Initially, the high plains' Indigenous peoples, following the migrating bison, inhabited the Front Range. Later, the 1858 gold rush attracted thousands to the Great Plains, establishing settlements around Denver. By the 1980s, Denver was recognized as a prominent beacon of gay culture in the West. Presently, Denver's vibrant tapestry showcases a rich array of people, cultures, and experiences.

Notable milestones in Denver's LGBTQ+ history include:

1973: The Denver Gay Coalition effectively lobbied the city council to repeal discriminatory laws targeting LGBTQ+ people.

1974: Denver's inaugural Pride celebration, a momentous picnic, took place in Cheesman Park.

1975: Denver's first official Pride Parade was organized.

1982: The Colorado Gay Rodeo Association emerged, initiating Denver's first gay rodeo event.

1983: The Denver LGBTQ+ community united to support the election of Federico Peña, Denver's pioneering Latino mayor, a prominent ally to the community.

1990: Denver became a trailblazing city, enacting an anti-discrimination policy, encompassing LGBTQ+ individuals.

1991: Denver residents affirmed their commitment to non-discrimination, successfully countering efforts to overturn the policy.

1994: The Gill Foundation was established to actively advocate for LGBTQ+ rights via charitable endeavors and educational initiatives.

2010: PrideFest, produced by the Center on Colfax, expanded its festivities to encompass an additional day of celebrations.

2013: Colorado enacted the Colorado Civil Union Act, recognizing same-sex partnerships.

2014: Same-sex marriage became legal in Colorado on the 7th of October.

2015: The U.S. Supreme Court delivered a landmark ruling in support of same-sex marriage nationwide.

2018: Jared Polis, an openly gay individual, was elected as Colorado's first openly gay governor.

Audio Walking Tour of Denver LGBTQ+ History by AARP

Experience a self-guided audio tour from your smartphone, unearthing Denver's LGBTQ+ history. Developed by AARP Colorado and The Center on Colfax, this GPS-enabled application guides you through significant LGBTQ+ landmarks in Capitol Hill and along Colfax Avenue. This comprehensive 10-stop tour incorporates Cheesman Park, Charlie's (home to the Colorado Gay Rodeo Association), and Smiley's Laundromat, a notable community location.

(This historic site sparked meaningful discussions about preservation and community identity.)

To participate, download the free Geotourist app from Apple iTunes and Google Play.