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Youth testimony and council calls for inclusion at National Western Stock Show proclamation
Summary
Denver City Council adopted a proclamation welcoming the 120th National Western Stock Show; members and visitors used the moment to call for better Indigenous representation. Northern Arapaho youth Justice Molonaro delivered a personal statement asking that Indigenous people not be treated as costumes or characters.
Denver City Council on Jan. 5 adopted a proclamation welcoming the 120th National Western Stock Show and used the ceremony to highlight scholarship programs and cultural concerns, including calls for improved recognition of Indigenous peoples.
Council Member Watson read Proclamation 252173 welcoming the Stock Show and its slate of events. Several members praised the show’s scholarship work and its economic impact. Council Member Jones used part of her remarks to recount conversations with Native community members and said the Stock Show could do more to invest in American Indian children and display better signage and programming to reflect Indigenous histories. Jones said she had heard concerns about certain Stock Show practices and invited a local Indigenous youth to speak to the council.
Justice Molonaro, who introduced themself as Northern Arapaho, told the council about moving from Wind River, learning Northern Arapaho traditions and being hurt by portrayals that treat Native people as costumes. "I want people to know that we have been here for 11,000 years," Justice said in a presentation that combined personal history and cultural reflection. Justice also recounted leaving the Westerners group after trying to raise concerns about disrespectful practices.
Wes Allison, introduced as CEO of the National Western, accepted the proclamation and described the Stock Show’s investments in facilities and education, invited council members to attend events and said he looked forward to continued conversation about inclusion and access.
The council adopted the proclamation by voice and roll call as read. The exchange highlighted the Stock Show’s scholarship role and renewed council interest in ensuring Indigenous representation and respectful practice at a major city event.
