Colorado 150 Commission outlines celebratory initiatives for state sesquicentennial in 2026

In the heart of Northglenn, city officials gathered under the warm glow of the council chamber lights to discuss a momentous occasion on the horizon: Colorado's 150th anniversary. The meeting featured Katie Roche, the program director for the America 250 Colorado 150 Commission, who passionately outlined the significance of this sesquicentennial celebration and the opportunities it presents for communities across the state.

Roche emphasized that this milestone is not just a time for reflection but also a chance for unity amid a politically divided landscape. Drawing on memories from the 1976 bicentennial celebrations, she shared how communities came together for barbecues and local festivities, fostering a sense of belonging and shared history. "It's not one or the other," Roche stated, highlighting the commission's belief that commemoration and celebration must go hand in hand.

The commission, established with bipartisan support in 2022, aims to engage diverse communities in recognizing their shared heritage. Roche detailed various initiatives designed to encourage participation, including a passport program in partnership with United Airlines, an oral history project titled "A Portrait of Colorado," and statewide drone shows to cap off local festivals. These initiatives are intended to inspire residents to explore their state and connect with its rich history.

Roche also noted the importance of inclusivity, stating that the commission's efforts will focus on the histories of marginalized communities, including Black, Indigenous, and people of color. With a network of commissioners representing various cultural and community organizations, the commission is poised to ensure that all voices are heard and celebrated.

As the meeting progressed, council members expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming celebrations and the potential for public art installations and exhibitions that could further enrich the community's engagement with this historic moment. Roche confirmed that collaborations with local cultural organizations are already underway, aiming to create a vibrant tapestry of events and programs that reflect Colorado's diverse heritage.

With the sesquicentennial just around the corner, Northglenn's city council is eager to embrace this opportunity for collective celebration and remembrance, inviting all residents to participate in honoring the past while looking forward to a united future.