Proclaiming Colorado’s Black History
Hey downtown! In honor of Black History Month, I recently visited the "Proclaiming Colorado's Black History" exhibit at the Museum of Boulder. Keep reading to learn more about this important piece of history.
Whether you're a lifelong resident or just passing through on a visit, the exhibit invites you to explore a vital chapter of Colorado's history and runs through September 2025, bringing to life the experiences and contributions of Black Coloradans through captivating artifacts and compelling narratives.
Before you even step into the main exhibit space, you're greeted by the remarkable story of Anna Belle Riley. Born in 1864, she is known as the earliest known child of African heritage born in the region that would later become the state of Colorado. Imagine the vastness of the territory at that time and the courage it took for her parents, Thomas and Louisiana "Lucy" Riley, to venture westward. Their journey, like that of so many other Black families, was driven by a powerful desire for opportunity. The Rileys weren't simply seeking gold; they were building a future. They settled in Denver, carving out a life amidst the challenges. Like other African American migrants at the time, they found work, established a home and became part of a growing community. They also faced the harsh realities of segregation and discrimination, yet their determination remained unwavering. Anna Belle's story serves as the introduction to the larger narrative of the exhibit of Black pioneers who shaped the landscape and character of early Colorado.
Learning about Penfield Tate II and Cleo Parker Robinson within the exhibit was truly inspiring. Tate's journey from a segregated community in Ohio to becoming Boulder's first and only Black mayor shines a light on the impact of his dedication and perseverance. A decorated Korean War veteran, accomplished lawyer and dedicated public servant, Tate's legacy continues to inspire. Similarly, the extraordinary life of Cleo Parker Robinson's story displays the power of art and resilience. Robinson overcame childhood health challenges and later became a world-renowned dancer and choreographer, founding the Cleo Parker Dance Ensemble in the heart of Denver and receiving prestigious awards including the Kennedy Center Medal of Honor. Both figures, in their respective fields, represent the very best of Colorado's history and offer powerful examples of what can be achieved through talent, hard work and a commitment to the community.
"Proclaiming Colorado's Black History" doesn't just look back, it looks forward. The exhibit explores Afrofuturism, a cultural movement that explores the intersection of Black culture, science and technology. I was mesmerized by the artwork which showcased talented Colorado artists like Louise Cutler, Adderly Grant-Lord, Dr. Thomas Elias Lockhart III, John Toms and Jim Wide. This section of the exhibit left me feeling inspired and hopeful, prompting me to reflect on my own role in shaping a more equitable and inclusive future for all.
The Museum of Boulder's exhibit is a powerful reminder that Black history is Colorado history. It's an invitation to learn, to reflect, and to celebrate the experiences that have shaped the state. I hope you all have the chance to visit the Museum of Boulder and experience this powerful exhibit which is on display through the end of September. To learn more about the history of the exhibit itself, here’s an informative blog post from February 2022.
Mentioned in this Post: Museum of Boulder