It’s February in Denver, which means that the celebration of Black History Month is in full swing around the Mile High City.
While reflection is a huge part of Black History Month, it’s not the only vital aspect of this event. Participation is just as important. From historic neighborhoods to local-owned businesses, Denver offers meaningful ways to honor Black history while supporting the people shaping the city today. Here are five ways to show up this February:
1: Explore the Legacy of Five Points — Denver’s “Harlem of the West”
Once home to jazz legends Duke Ellington and Billie Holiday, Five Points has long been the cultural heart of Black Denver.
A great way to learn more about the area is taking a self-guided walk down Welton Street and reading the historical markers. You can also stop by Cleo Parker Robinson Dance, a cornerstone arts institution that has celebrated Black heritage through performance in the neighborhood for more than five decades. Later in the year, visiting during the annual Five Points Jazz Festival is another phenomenal way to experience the neighborhood’s living legacy.
Even a simple afternoon stroll offers perspective on how this community shaped Denver’s cultural identity.
2: Visit the Blair-Caldwell African American Research Library
Located in Five Points, the Blair-Caldwell African American Research Library is part museum, part archive and entirely essential.
Named after Omar D. Blair and Elvis R. Caldwell, two of the most prominent civil rights leaders in Colorado’s history, the building hosts a plethora of information and resources regarding Denver’s black history. The second floor specifically stands out, acting as an important archive with a wide range of photographs, manuscript collections, letters and diaries.
If you’re looking to learn more about Denver’s black history this February, the Blair-Caldwell African American Research Library is a great place to start.
3: Support Black-Owned Restaurants and Businesses
Denver has some amazing Black-owned businesses and there’s no better time to support them than right now.
If you’re looking for recommendations, we’ve got you covered.
For restaurants, you can’t go wrong with Welton Street Cafe and Nola Voodoo Tavern. As for retail options, The Shop at MATTER offers vibes and a phenomenal book selection. Jeffery B. Jewelers in Parker, the only Black-owned full-service jeweler in Colorado, is a great option for all your custom jewelry needs. For a sweet treat, make sure to check out Mykings Ice Cream, along with Little Sistas Treats. Little Sista’ Supa Hot Fire, which is dark chocolate and cheesecake filling topped with Hot Cheetos, is one of the most unique desserts in all of Denver.
In the coming weeks, make an effort to go and check out the local Black-owned restaurants and businesses around you. You might just find your new favorite spot!
4: ​​Experience Black Art at the Denver Art Museum
Heading to the Denver Art Museum to view their “Art of Africa” exhibit is a another way to commemorate Black History Month through the lens of paintings and sculptures. According to the museum’s website, the 2,300 square foot exhibit hosts “a collection that illustrates the diversity, relevance, and dynamism of creativity and culture across Africa.”
Even when there isn’t a Black History Month–specific show, the museum’s rotating galleries often highlight diverse voices shaping modern art and are worth checking out.
5: Learn About Colorado’s Black Trailblazers
Black history in Colorado goes far beyond February. From Buffalo Soldiers stationed in the West to local civil rights leaders who pushed for housing and education equity, the state’s story is deep and ongoing.
This week, spend some time learning about Black Coloradans who shaped politics, business, journalism and the arts. Reading up on Barney Ford, an escaped slave who settled in Colorado and became one of the most successful pioneers of the Gold Rush era, is a great place to start. Another great example is Charles Burrell, who earned the nickname “the Jackie Robinson of classical music” for becoming the first Black member of a major American symphony orchestra.Â
Many more stories are online at your fingertips or archived at the Blair-Caldwell Library or documented by History Colorado.
Here in Denver, we don’t celebrate Black History Month by just checking boxes. Instead, we show up for our local community, build relationships and awareness, and extend that momentum beyond February. Denver’s story is richer because of the Black community and their stories. We should pay attention, not just in February, but all year long.
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Ryland Scholes
Production Manager & Senior Reporter/ Bucket List Community News
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