Volume 40 Number 8 November 2026
Golden Years. Black Excellence.
Honoring our elders, strengthening our community…4
Sole Searching. Still Walking the Talk. Denver’s former mayor still has ideas afoot…10
Small Shoulders. Grown-Up Weight. Omarion Calloway speaks up for young caregivers…15
Cover Designed by Marion Boston
2 | Denver Urban Spectrum - www.denverurbanspectrum.com - November 2026
MESSAGE From The Publisher Volume 40
Number 8
November 2026
PUBLISHER Rosalind J. Harris COPY EDITOR Tanya Ishikawa COLUMNISTS Karen Davis Barry Overton Dr. Dedrick Sims CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Omarion Calloway Angelia McGowan GUEST CONTRIBUTORS Malik Washington Wellington E. Webb SPECIAL PROJECTS ASSISTANT Tanya Ishikawa ART DIRECTOR Bee Harris BROADCAST COORDINATOR Karen Davis CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER Amanda Bierman GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Jody Gilbert – Kolorgraphix Marion Boston Sekar Uthayasuriyan DISTRIBUTION Lawrence A. James
Denver Urban Spectrum is a monthly publication dedicated to spreading the news about people of color. Contents of Denver Urban Spectrum are copyright 2026 by Bizzy Bee Enterprise. No portion may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher. Denver Urban Spectrum circulates 7,500 copies throughout Colorado. Denver Urban Spectrum welcomes all letters, but reserves the right to edit for space, libelous material, grammar, and length. All letters must include name, address, and phone number. We will withhold author's name on request. Unsolicited articles are accepted without guarantee of publication or payment. Write to Denver Urban Spectrum at P.O. Box 31001, Aurora, CO 80041. For advertising, subscriptions, or other information, call 303-292-6446, email publisher@urbanspectrum or visit the Website at www. denverurbanspectrum.com.
A Grateful Heart, a Lasting Love
N
ovember gives us plenty of reasons to pause, reflect and give thanks. There are even monthly observances celebrating peanut butter, sweet potatoes and banana pudding! But this year, my thoughts are drawn to something much closer to my heart: caregiving, the well-being of our elders and gratitude for the people who show up when they are needed most. On November 3, I will remember my mother, Ruth J. Boyd, whose life ended tragically and violently in her home at the age of 80. The years have passed, but the love—and the questions— remain. One question I still carry is whether things might have been different if my mother had had a caregiver. Just maybe, she would still be with us today. Or perhaps we would have been blessed with more years together. More conversations. More laughter. More time. I cannot know the answer. But I know that her life continues to give purpose to mine. Through the Ruth Boyd Elder Abuse Foundation, I want to help other families protect their loved ones and ensure that our elders are safe, connected and treated with the dignity they deserve. I remember how much my mother enjoyed attending an adult day center. That memory stays with me as we work to create opportunities for other seniors to experience companionship, joy and belonging. This month’s cover story brings that commitment into focus. Former editor and longtime contributor Angelia D. McGowan explores Aging While Black, speaking with co-founder Raymond Jetson, Denver leader Sylvia Waller and local leaders working to help our elders live fuller, healthier lives. Their work reminds us that caring for seniors is a responsibility shared by families and communities. But caregiving has another face— one I am only beginning to understand. At the Colorado Alliance for Caregiving Youth’s recent fundraising gala, I met 22-year-old keynote speaker Omarion Calloway, who began caregiving at just six years old. You could hear a pin drop as he shared his story. Children are carrying
responsibilities that many adults would find overwhelming, often while trying to keep up with school and navigate their own growing pains. I was honored to meet Omarion, shake his hand and give him a hug. The photograph accompanying this message captures that meeting, but it cannot fully capture what his words left with me. In this issue, Omarion writes about his experience at the gala and the urgent need to support young caregivers. Please take a few minutes to read his article. His message asks us to do more than admire their strength. It asks us to help lighten their load. Next month, we look forward to sharing more of his personal story. And I am putting my prediction in print: I believe this young man could receive a Pulitzer Prize one day. Remember that you read it here! As Thanksgiving approaches, I am also thinking about the many people who have helped carry Denver Urban Spectrum through another year. To our readers, advertisers, sponsors, donors and community partners: thank you. To our writers, photographers, designers, editors, distribution team and everyone working
behind the scenes: thank you. To those who share an article, recommend us to a business, offer encouragement or simply remind us that our work matters: please know that your support makes a difference. Publishing an independent community publication comes with challenges. After nearly four decades, I know that well. I also know that DUS has never reached a milestone alone. Every issue reflects the talent, trust and generosity of people who believe our stories deserve to be told. To those who have stood with us through the good times and the difficult ones—you know who you are, and I am grateful beyond measure. This November, I carry my mother’s memory, renewed purpose and a thankful heart. May we remember those we miss, appreciate those beside us and make time to care for someone who needs us. With love and gratitude,
Rosalind “Bee” Harris Publisher Denver Urban Spectrum
Denver Urban Spectrum - www.denverurbanspectrum.com - November 2026
| 3
our
Honoring Seniors with Safe Spaces by George Tillman Jr., explores how a grandmother keeps her large family together through weekly Sunday dinners.
ow is Big Mama these days? Is she enjoying her life as she ages? Is she staying connected to her family through technology? Is she confidently navigating any health and human services programs she may need? Is she being celebrated and honored for the experiences she has lived?
Keeping family together is not the only concern for seniors who face other dilemmas that may not be well understood by family members and community. Colorado continues to be one of the fastest aging states in the country, according to the Bell Policy Center, a nonprofit, nonpartisan research and advocacy organization that focuses on economic mobility. So, policymakers need to understand how older Coloradans, their loved ones, and the systems meant to support them, are doing.
Every African-American family may not have someone named “Big Mama,” but most have a respected matriarch or patriarch like the one portrayed in the 1997 film “Soul Food.” The comedy-drama, written and directed
Over the past several years, the center has tracked these outcomes through its “State of Aging” reports. The 2025 report says, “To access needed health services, we find that older Coloradans are still reliant upon
By Angelia D. McGowan
H
4 | Denver Urban Spectrum - www.denverurbanspectrum.com - November 2026
public health systems – primarily Medicare and Medicaid. In particular, Medicaid remains an important source of coverage for older Coloradans from communities of color.” The report finds that African Americans 65 and older make up 25% of Coloradans on these services, and that “this reliance poses concerns for these Coloradans as federal leaders contemplate massive cuts to Medicaid.” Families are feeling it, and need to know how to move forward in this environment that challenges equity mandates. Nonprofit programs serving the elderly, specifically those in communities of color, are addressing the rising demand.
Aging While Black, Montbello Walks, Thrive & Flourish, and others stepping up to meet need Aging While Black (awB) is a national platform and movement that examines the intersection of unique experiences to help improve long-term outcomes for Black elders in America. Raymond Jetson co-founded the movement with Kali J. Graves – a strategist, builder,
and impact architect, specializing in leading organizations toward meaningful, sustainable change. The Baton Rouge-based platform has arms in Denver, Chicago, Los Angeles and San Francisco. awB’s leader on the ground in Denver is Sylvia Waller. She was crowned Mrs. Colorado 2022, at age 62, making her the oldest winner in the pageant’s history and only the second African American woman to hold the title. Her platform was the importance of aging gracefully. At one point, she was also a part of the sandwich generation, simultaneously taking care of children and a parent with Alzheimer’s. Those experiences informed how she moved as a community catalyst for awB, bringing key leaders to the discussions.
“Elders carry wisdom,” says Waller. “They give us direction” so we don’t stumble. One of those leaders is Pam Jiner, founder of Montbello Walks. The nonprofit is piloting what awB has designated as the “third space.” It is the social setting separate from the two usual environments of home (first space) and work/school (second space). More than a decade ago, the initial mission was to build a walkable community through advocacy while improving the physical and emotional health of residents through walking engagement groups. In her fight to make a difference in Montbello, she made sure to “get decisionmakers to walk what you are trying to create for me to walk through” before they attempted to make decisions. Jiner wanted them to get out from behind their desks. The most recent evolution of the nonprofit is Montbello Walks Senior Enrichment Center for active adults over 55. It includes a collaboration with Athletics and Beyond, known for using sports as a vehicle to build character, confidence and opportunity for young people across Denver and Aurora. Over the summer, the personal development through sports nonprofit
moved into a larger space (25,000 square feet) at 3250 Quentin Street #114 in Aurora, and invited Montbello Walks to move in, creating a welcoming space for older adults to stay active, healthy, connected and engaged. The center offers week-day programming that brings together healthy aging, fitness and movement, nutrition education, creative activities, social connection, and opportunities to engage with younger generations. Jiner remembers the nonprofit’s early days when participants would just meet at the corner and take a walk. “Without community support, we would not have made it. Businesses and individuals helped” bringing industrial-size heaters out when they
were out meeting in the snow. Though she has a new component focused on the seniors, she’s “really concerned about everyone who lives in our area,” she says. “Denver is a special place for us,” adds Jetson, the author of “Aging While Black: A Radical Reimagining of Aging and Race in America.” Another organization that addresses the needs of this audience is the National Caucus & Center on Black Aging, Inc. It was founded in 1970 to ensure that the particular concerns of elderly minorities would be addressed in the 1971 White House Conference on Aging. Since that time, the caucus has helped protect and improve the quality of life for elderly populations, making certain that legislators, policymakers, philanthropists, advocacy groups, service organizations, thought leaders and the public-at-large include minority seniors in their programs, policy-and law-making and giving.
awB is taking a different approach Jetson, a former Louisiana state representative, deputy secretary of health, and pastor of Star Hill Church, says, “This is more than just a conversation about aging. It’s about legacy, belonging, and what Black elders contribute to all of us. Elevating voices of Black elders. Make sure their
future is strong based on experience and what they know.” Montbello Walks is helping with technology programming, the third space and paid peer navigators. Navigators get a stipend but they are not licensed social workers, Waller notes, explaining, “They are just a trusted neighbor. They have about five now.” She stresses the importance of peers as navigators with this population that has trust issues because they have been burned. The nonprofit’s Senior Enrichment Center was designed to promote healthy aging, reduce social isolation, encourage lifelong learning and empower older adults to remain active, independent and engaged. It promotes the five pillars of healthy aging: nourish, grow, move, connect and create. This third space allows seniors to celebrate their lives and their memories. Jiner mentions watching the seniors play hopscotch, a game where players draw a numbered grid on the pavement, toss a small rock into the squares, and hop through. She says they know what to do, but they can’t move their feet to get that bounce. They want them to be in an environment where they are not afraid to let themselves go. Let down their guard, live, laugh and learn about themselves. She says the nonprofit is seeking foundational partners to ensure 10 years from now they have built a legacy. “God opens a door and he will supply your needs. I am heading into 2027 with that,” she proclaims. Another senior support program is Thrive & Flourish, a new adult day program offered by the Ruth Boyd Elder Abuse Foundation in the Denver and Aurora communities. The foundation was established by Rosalind “Bee” Harris, publisher of Denver Urban Spectrum, in memory of her mother, who was tragically and unexpectedly killed in her home at the age of 80 in November 2008. “We created the program to ensure that our seniors are not only cared for, but truly seen, heard, and valued,” says Harris. “This program is about empowering older adults with knowledge, protecting them through education, and surrounding them with joy, community, and purpose. At the same time, we are providing families and caregivers with trusted support and peace of mind.” Continued on Page 6
Denver Urban Spectrum - www.denverurbanspectrum.com - November 2026
| 5
Continued From Page 5
She adds: “It was developed to address the growing need for accessible, culturally responsive, daytime care that reinforces a shared commitment to protecting, educating and empowering seniors—particularly those most vulnerable to neglect, isolation and exploitation.” As she began venturing into new territory, Harris connected with a kindred spirit while hosting a women’s luncheon in 2025 at Nuur Event Center in Aurora. Zhanna Gyumushyan is the owner of the center as well as owner of the Melior Home Health.
Harris says, “We had an immediate bond from that event, resulting in us wanting to tackle one very important issue, the caregiving and wellbeing of seniors. As business women with mutual goals, we both felt some synergy and wanted to help each other. And I remember before my mother’s passing that she attended an adult day center and enjoyed it immensely.” The Ruth Boyd Elder Abuse Foundation is still in developmental stages, and planned services and resources will include elderly care services; workforce training,
consultation and workshops; safety training including abuse and fraud prevention; and technical assistance. Thrive & Flourish, one of its first programs, is a holistic day program for seniors. Activities and programs will include music therapy, reiki and yoga sessions, hair and beauty classes and cooking lessons. The program is now enrolling participants and welcoming referrals from community partners, healthcare providers, and caregiver networks. Medicaid-eligible participants can join in coordination with case managers and care teams, and flexible
enrollment options are open to privatepay participants. Reflecting on her foundation’s mission, Harris stresses that there is a need to better support treasured leaders of our families and communities. She is finding true joy in stepping up to provide one of these safe spaces. ♦ Editor’s note: For more information, visit www.agingwhileblack.co, www.montbellowalks.org, www. ruthboydfoundation.org and (and to register) www.melioradc.com.
THROUGH JANUARY 31, 2027 DIVA is created by the V&A - touring the world. The Denver Art Museum presentation is made possible by premier sponsors Joy and Chris Dinsdale. Generous funding also comes from the Avenir Foundation Endowment. Presenting support is provided by Jana and Fred Bartlit and Bridget and John Grier, with additional funds from Kathie and Keith Finger, Jen and Alex Hardie, Sheila O’Brien, Tina Walls, U.S. Bank, UOVO: Art, Fashion, Wine, the donors to the Annual Fund Leadership Campaign and the residents who support the Scientific and Cultural Facilities District (SCFD). Promotional support is provided by CBS Colorado.
6 | Denver Urban Spectrum - www.denverurbanspectrum.com - November 2026
WILMA WEBB ENDOWMENT TO Denver Health for Substance Abuse Programs Former First Lady and State Representative Trailblazer for State Treatment Programs
F
ormer Denver First Lady Wilma J. Webb has established an endowment at Denver Health Medical Center to support the public hospital’s substance abuse programs. The initial $25,000 will be put in an endowment fund, which will grow for years to come, said Magda Herrera, Denver Health Senior Director of Philanthropy. “Wilma Webb has spent decades helping individuals who face addiction and their families,” Herrera said. “This donation will help generations of people who struggle with substance abuse and those impacted by addiction.” Wilma Webb has fought for decades to provide funding for Denver Health, first while serving in the Colorado State Legislature as a House Representative from 1980-1993. She was appointed as the first Black woman to the powerful Joint Budget Committee where she worked with Democrats and Republicans to protect Denver Health from nearly $40 million in federal budget cuts. In her last three years in the legislature, Rep. Webb successfully passed a law that provided funding for
substance abuse programs. The state had programs for alcohol abuse but rising issues with crack cocaine and heroin were overlooked, she recalled.
“I hope my contribution to Denver Health will be a tool to bring more contributions and make a lasting change in not only the person dealing with substance abuse, but their families, too,” Webb said.
“The Democrats were always in the minority during the 13 years I was in the legislature,” Rep. Webb recalled. “I knew how to work with Republicans and I was able to get a Republican in the senate to help get this passed.”
Her work on social issues, along with being a champion for the arts community, continued during her 12 years as the city first African American First Lady from 19912003. Her husband, Wellington Webb, also fought for Denver Health as a state representative, 1972-1976; and during his time as Denver’s 42nd mayor, where he created the Denver Health Authority, which saved the hospital from bankruptcy.
The Colorado Department of Health and Denver Police got involved in the issue and thanked Rep. Webb for getting the law passed. Rep. Webb saw the substance abuse problem community wide. “When I say substance abuse was close to home, that includes my district, my ethnic race and my family. It is an illness that affects nearly everyone, including the individual and their families.” During her 13 years in the legislature, she got many of the 42 bills she introduced passed and many that dealt with social issues, include full-day kindergarten and nursing home care. “Of all the bills I got passed, the substance abuse one is the one I am most proud of,” she said, adding that most Coloradans equate her most
significant accomplishment was getting the state Martin Luther King Jr. holiday approved. “I feel good about educating more people about substance abuse because education is needed,” she said. “The more people understand that this is an illness, the better.” During the MLK holiday, Wilma wrote the first play about substance abuse that was performed at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts. The name of the play was, “Change.”
After leaving office, the couple have yearly helped raise money for the hospital, including through the Wellington E. Webb Research Endowment Foundation for clinical researchers. In addition, the couple recently donated $25,000 to their church, Zion Baptist Church for youth ministry. ♦ Editor’s note: For more information about the both Denver Health endowments and how to contribute, email Magda Herrera at Magda.Herrera@dhha.org or call 303-6022931. To reach Wilma and Wellington Webb, call 303-884-7800.
Your retirement... DREAM or NIGHTMARE? Myra Donovan, CFP Financial Adviser*
2000 S. Colorado Blvd., Tower 2, Suite 1100 - Denver, CO 80222 303-871-7249 Office • www.myradonovan.com
Call today for a free consultation! *Registered Representative for NYLIFE Securities LLC (Member FINRA/SIPC), a Licensed Insurance Agency. Financial Adviser for Eagle Strategies LLC. a Registered Investment Adviser. Eagle Strategies, LLC and NYLIFE Securities, LLC are New York Life companies.
Denver Urban Spectrum - www.denverurbanspectrum.com - November 2026
| 7
ALL THINGS BOYS Boys Need a Reason to Believe Their Future Matters
was happening around them and begin considering the possibilities, responsibilities, and contributions their lives might hold. I also wanted them to understand that the value of their lives was not determined by their current circumstances or by how other people measured their potential. Too often, we assume that boys naturally understand the range of opportunities available to them. We tell them they can become whatever they want to become, but we do not always give them enough exposure to understand what those possibilities actually look like. A boy cannot meaningfully consider becoming an engineer, entrepreneur, educator, physician, or public servant if those opportunities remain distant ideas with no connection to his everyday experiences.
By Dr. Dedrick J. Sims
I
have worked with boys and young men for more than thirty years, and one of the things I have learned is that it is difficult to convince a boy to make decisions about his future when he has very little reason to believe that future holds something meaningful for him. Adults spend a great deal of time telling boys to think about tomorrow, make better choices, stay focused, and avoid situations that might limit their opportunities. Those are reasonable expectations, but I have come to understand that we sometimes ask boys to protect a future they have never had an opportunity to imagine. When a young man cannot see much beyond the circumstances surrounding him, the decisions he makes today often reflect that limited view. He may understand that school is important without understanding how education connects to a life
he actually wants. He may hear adults talk about careers, financial independence, and responsibility without having meaningful exposure to people or experiences that make those possibilities real. Eventually, the future becomes something adults keep talking about rather than something he believes belongs to him. I have seen what happens when that begins to change. A boy who once struggled to explain what he wanted for himself begins asking different questions. He becomes interested in opportunities he previously ignored. He starts paying attention to decisions that once seemed unimportant because he now has something he wants to work toward. His circumstances may not have changed, but his understanding of what is possible has begun to expand.
Boys Cannot Pursue What They Have Never Imagined One of the conversations in Hey Man, We Jus Talkin’ focuses on the magnitude of a young man’s life. I wanted boys to think beyond what
8 | Denver Urban Spectrum - www.denverurbanspectrum.com - November 2026
Exposure matters because it gives boys something concrete to consider. Meeting someone who grew up in circumstances similar to their own and built a meaningful career can expand what they believe is possible. Visiting a college campus, entering a professional workplace, participating in a leadership experience, or having an adult take a serious interest in their aspirations can change the questions they begin asking about themselves. We should never underestimate what happens when a boy encounters a possibility that he had not previously considered.
Purpose Develops Through Experience I do not believe purpose is something we can simply give a boy through a motivational speech. We can encourage him, challenge him, and help him think about his future, but developing a sense of purpose requires experiences that allow him to discover what matters to him and where he might make a meaningful contribution. Boys need opportunities to try things, make decisions, solve problems, accept responsibility, and discover abilities they may not know they possess. They need adults willing to
help them connect those experiences to a larger understanding of themselves. A boy who discovers that he enjoys helping younger children may begin seeing himself as a teacher, coach, or community leader. Another who enjoys solving complicated problems may begin considering a career in technology, engineering, or business. Neither discovery happens simply because someone tells him to dream bigger. This is where the environments surrounding boys become so important. Families, schools, youth organizations, and communities can either expand a boy’s understanding of his possibilities or repeatedly expose him to the same narrow set of experiences. When we create opportunities for exploration, leadership, service, and meaningful responsibility, we give boys more information about themselves and the world they are preparing to enter. Purpose becomes easier to develop when boys have opportunities to discover what they are capable of contributing.
Someone Helped Me See Beyond Pine Bluff When I think about my own life, I understand how much my future was shaped by people who saw possibilities in me before I fully understood them myself. Growing up in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, I had people around me who understood that my circumstances did not have to determine the direction of my life. My grandmother, Betty Jean Sims, was one of those people. She expected something from me even when I did not fully understand what those expectations would eventually require. Later, Sergeant Hudson invested in me in ways that went beyond what was required of him as my ROTC instructor. He helped me understand that my decisions mattered and that I had some responsibility for the direction my life would take. At the time, I could not have imagined every opportunity that would eventually become part of my life. I did not know that I would spend decades working in education, establish schools, build an organization, or develop a framework for helping communities create stronger environments for boys and young men. Those possibilities were not fully formed when I was growing up. What I did have were adults who helped me believe that my life could
become more than what I could see at the moment. Their investment gave me room to develop a larger understanding of myself, and that understanding continued to grow through the opportunities, challenges, and responsibilities I encountered along the way. I often think about how different my life might have been without those people and experiences.
Hope Requires More Than Encouragement We talk frequently about the importance of giving boys hope, and I agree that hope matters. But I also believe we need to be more thoughtful about what we mean when we use that word. Telling a boy that he has a bright future is not the same as helping him believe it. If his daily experiences consistently communicate that opportunities are limited, that adults do not expect much from him, or that he does not belong in certain spaces, our encouragement will eventually compete with the evidence his environment provides. Hope becomes more credible when boys experience progress. It grows when someone recognizes an ability they have worked to develop, when they are trusted with responsibility, when they accomplish something difficult, or when an adult helps them access an opportunity they did not know existed. Those experiences give boys reasons to believe that their actions can influence what happens next. This is particularly important for boys who have experienced repeated disappointment. We cannot assume that another speech about making good decisions will overcome years of experiences that have taught them to expect very little. We have to create opportunities that allow them to experience something different.
What Adults Must Understand Now We should want boys to think seriously about their futures, but we also have to examine whether the environments we have built are giving them enough reason to believe those futures are worth preparing for. It is difficult to ask a young man to invest in tomorrow when the institutions surrounding him have done little to help him imagine what tomorrow might hold.
That responsibility belongs to all of us. Parents can help boys connect their interests to opportunities. Teachers can challenge students with meaningful work and introduce them to possibilities beyond the classroom. Coaches and mentors can help young men understand how discipline, responsibility, and persistence apply to the rest of their lives. Community organizations and employers can create experiences that allow boys to see themselves participating in spaces they may never have entered otherwise. We also need to listen when boys tell us what they want for themselves. Their aspirations may not match the futures we have imagined for them, and that does not make those aspirations less important. Our responsibility is to help them examine their interests, understand their options, and develop the judgment and skills necessary to make thoughtful decisions about their lives. I often return to the question of how many boys are growing up surrounded by possibilities they have never been given an opportunity to see. We cannot expect boys to make meaningful investments in their futures while leaving those futures largely to their imagination. We have to build environments that provide exposure, meaningful relationships, responsibility, and opportunities for discovery. Every boy deserves the opportunity to understand that his life has value today and that his future is worth preparing for. Our responsibility is to make sure he has enough experiences along the way to begin believing that for himself. If this conversation resonates with you and you would like to continue the dialogue around boys, adolescent development, purpose, or designing stronger environments for young people, you can reach me directly at dedrick@djsventures.org. ♦ Editor’s note: Dr. Dedrick J. Sims is the Founder and CEO of the SimsFayola Foundation, creator of The Sims Framework, and author of the monthly All Things Boys column in The Urban Spectrum. His work focuses on designing systems of belonging that create consistent opportunities for boys and young men of color to learn, develop, and thrive. Learn more at www.sffoundation.org.
Denver Urban Spectrum - www.denverurbanspectrum.com - November 2026
| 9
LOOKING BACK Looking Forward Op-ed by Wellington E. Webb
was later removed by a different administration.
I
believe in substance over style and symbols, although they can have tremendous value. One example was the Wellington Webb for Mayor campaign in 1991 where myself and my wife, Wilma, spent 42 days walking the city and staying in 42 different residents’ homes. The symbol was my tennis shoes that caught voters’ attention, and then I hit them with substance. I believe we need to focus on seniority as well as merit for city employees. When you don’t have institutional knowledge, it leads to bad public policy, whether in local government or at a national level. Example, U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth; do I need to say more?
Historic Facts • The McNichols Building was not named only after longtime Denver Mayor Bill McNichols. During my administration, I urged the City Council to name the building in honor of the McNichols brothers. Steve McNichols served as Colorado’s governor from 1957 to 1963; Bill McNichols served as Denver’s 36th mayor from 19681983. • When trying to revitalize Downtown Denver early in my administration in 1991, I agreed city agencies could serve as anchors for larger redevelopment projects. Therefore, I shared with Visit Denver and the Urban Renewal Authority that those
10
• In addition to being the first pilot to use DIA, Bill Daniels opened his private home, called Cableland, for the city to hold such historic events as the Summit of the Eight. He later donated the home to the city for a mayoral residence, although Wilma and I never lived there, we did host some events. When former University of Denver Chancellor Dan Ritchie heard that Daniels donated his home to the city, Ritchie reminded Daniels that the chancellor had no donated home. Bill told him to go pick a home and send him the bill. agencies would stay downtown in the Denver Dry Building. Two city anchor tenants and private development saved the Denver Dry building • Before the Denver Pavilions became a reality, the project was in litigation between the owner Scott Moore and the city. I invited Moore for a oneon-one meeting at a downtown bar. After his five to six scotch drinks, and my three to four rum Cokes, we had an agreement. • The Coalition for the Homeless needed shelter for the growing population. I saw an opportunity by renting the Permit Center building to the coalition adjacent to the City and County Building, to be used for apartments. The city charged $1 a year for 30 years to house the homeless there.
| Denver Urban Spectrum - www.denverurbanspectrum.com - November 2026
Fun Facts: Did You Know? • The first flight to land and depart from the new Denver International Airport in 1995 was a private plane owned by cable magnet and pilot Bill Daniels. Yes, he served as my campaign chairman and he was a Republican. • During negotiations by former Colorado Avalanche (the voters’ Quebec Nordiques) and Denver Nuggets owners to sell the teams, the city of Denver put in a clause that Denver had the first right of refusal if the teams were to be sold. Then NBA Commissioner David Stern had a fit and came to Denver demanding the clause be removed. That didn’t happen. My roots are from the Southside of Chicago, Gary, Indiana and east Denver. I don’t bluff and I don’t do random. The clause
• One of the reasons that the DIA baggage system was such a nightmare was a disastrous public test on a circular track when DIA is longitudinal. The baggage flying off the rails was not a pretty sight. • The current Wellington E. Webb Municipal Building is the former location of the University of Denver Law School and parking lot. • It’s important to reward your staff and develop team loyalty. That became clear during a large snowstorm when DIA officials called and said the keys for the snow plows were locked in a shed behind a locked gate and the snowplows drivers had no access. City employee Steve Garcia drove a truck through the locked fence and distributed the keys to the drivers. As mayor, I was so proud he didn’t wait around and got the job done.
Thoughts Moving Forward (to whomever wants to use them) 1. Reemphasize basic city services and you can still do the Robert Moses projects. Don’t ignore local and minority businesses; we live here. 2. Pull up the rail lines along Welton Street and slow down traffic. Welton Street is not the Indy 500. 3. Set up a cultural walkway through Denver. Beginning in Auraria, recognize the Latino community; the Golda Meir House for the Jewish community; Sakura Square for the Asian community; and the Blair-Caldwell African American Research Library for the Black community. This would be similar to The Freedom Trail in Boston, a 2.5-mile walking path marked by a red brick line that connects 16 nationally significant historic sites. 4. I support the plan to set up a trolley system for the new Mile High Stadium under consideration and a proposal for a giant Ferris Wheel in LoDo that would provide amazing views of the mountains for riders. It worked in London to attract visitors; it could work in Denver. 5. Develop electric charging stations at golf courses. 6. Is that really the best redesign for the Kennedy Gold Course? That design looks pretty old. 7. The Auditor should audit Denver Water and make sure water rates won’t increase to pay for the relocation of Denver Water offices for the new Denver Broncos stadium. We need to follow Councilwoman Jamie Torres’ lead in projecting the neighborhood. 8. The organization of the BlairCaldwell Library should be put on the ballot because of the uniqueness of the facility. The Denver Zoo may be a good model. Also, the city should follow Councilman Darrell Watson’s suggestion to purchase a nearby adjacent empty building for the library as a lecture hall.
Park Hill Park One of my proudest moments after leaving the mayor’s office was helping the Park Hill neighborhood and voters citywide save 155 acres of open space
from a concrete jungle. The Parks and Recreation Department has done a good job coming up with a design for the new park. The west side and the east side of the park should be built together. My goal here is to suggest putting a little more meat on the bone for the western section of the park. • A pickle ball court to be known as the “Big Pickle” • An ice rink named Avalanche Rink • A basketball and volleyball field house named Nuggets Field House • A football field named Broncos Field • Soccer fields named Rapids Summit Field • Running track and field named after Jerome Biffle, a Denver resident who won a long jump gold medal in the 1952 Summer Olympics and became a legendary track and field coach at East High School; and Glenn Morris, a Colorado native and Colorado State University alumnus who won the gold medal in the decathlon at the 1936 Summer Olympics, setting a new world record. There’s not enough money in the bond to fully build out the Park Hill Park without additional financing. I again recommend that the city use additional Certificates of Participation better known as COP. Finally, my thoughts on the future of our country. As we begin giving serious thought to the 2028 presidential campaign, we should all be singing from the same hymnal. We must expand the U.S. Supreme Court and set staggered term limits. Considering all the recent court decisions, this move would please the signers of the Declaration of Independence. As a nation, we also cannot forget our heroes, including Doris “Dorie” Miller who was a mess attendant during the attack on Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, 1941. He shot down between two and six aircraft to defend and protect his country and was the first Black American to receive a Navy Cross. His name deserves to remain on an aircraft carrier under construction. Any attempts to remove it are clearly racism. ♦ Editor’s note: Wellington E. Webb is an American politician. He served as a Democratic member of the Colorado House of Representatives and was the first African American mayor of Denver, Colorado, serving from 1991 to 2003.
Your health. Your needs. Your coverage. You don’t have to navigate health insurance alone. Compare quality plans, apply for financial help and get free enrollment support from local experts who can help you find coverage that works for you.
ENROLL TODAY
Open Enrollment runs between November 1, 2026 – January 15, 2027. Enroll before 12/15/2026 for coverage beginning on 1/1/2027. Enroll between 12/16/2026 and 1/15/2027 for coverage beginning on 2/1/2027.
Denver Urban Spectrum - www.denverurbanspectrum.com - November 2026
| 11
Colorado Symphony Brings Landmark New Works To Colorado Audiences During 2026/27 Season Colorado premieres by Joe Hisaishi and John Wineglass demonstrate the orchestra’s commitment to bringing today’s most compelling voices to Colorado audiences.
W
hile audiences have long turned to the Colorado Symphony for timeless masterworks by Beethoven, Mahler, and Tchaikovsky, the orchestra has also long championed the music of living composers, bringing bold new voices and groundbreaking works to Colorado audiences. During the 2026/27 Season, that commitment continues with two remarkable Colorado premieres: Joe Hisaishi’s Concerto for Orchestra, a major new work co-commissioned by the Colorado Symphony, and John Wineglass’ #elijah, a powerful new piece with Colorado roots. Together, these performances underscore the Colorado Symphony’s commitment to championing new music while creating unforgettable live experiences that connect today’s audiences with the evolving symphonic art form.
A Landmark New Work from Joe Hisaishi Few living composers have captured the imagination of audiences worldwide like Joe Hisaishi, whose unforgettable
scores for Studio Ghibli films including Spirited Away, My Neighbor Totoro, Princess Mononoke, and Howl’s Moving Castle have earned him international acclaim. Beyond film music, Hisaishi has emerged as one of today’s most celebrated orchestral composers and conductors.
The final movement brings these rhythmic and lyrical elements together. The work received its world premiere earlier this year with the National Symphony Orchestra before traveling to only a handful of leading orchestras around the world. The Colorado Symphony served as one of the work’s co-commissioners alongside internationally renowned institutions including Carnegie Hall, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, the San Francisco Symphony, the Toronto Symphony Orchestra, and the Orchestre de Paris, making those performances especially unique for Colorado audiences.
On October 16-17, the Colorado Symphony performed the Colorado premiere of Hisaishi’s Concerto for Orchestra, a sweeping new work that places every section of the orchestra in the spotlight. Written in five movements and running approximately 45 minutes, the Concerto for Orchestra follows a form made iconic by composers such as Béla Bartók, Witold Lutoslawski, and Zoltán Kodály, placing the orchestra itself at the center of expression. Hisaishi notes, “My aim has been to pursue the pure motion of sound,” drawing on his experience conducting works including Bartók’s Concerto for Orchestra and Steve Reich’s The Desert Music. The work’s first and third movements feature driving rhythms, while the inner movements highlight lyrical solo passages for individual instruments.
#elijah by John Wineglass: A Powerful Musical Reflection on Justice and Humanity Later this season, the Colorado Symphony presents the Colorado premiere of Emmy Award-winning composer John Wineglass’ #elijah, an
About The Colorado Symphony One of the leading orchestras in the United States, the Colorado Symphony Association is a not-for-profit 501(c) (3) organization performing more than 150 concerts annually at Boettcher Concert Hall in downtown Denver and across Colorado. Led by Peter Oundjian as its Music Director as of the 2025/26 season, the Colorado Symphony is home to eighty full-time 12
musicians representing more than a dozen nations and regularly welcomes the world’s most celebrated artists from across musical genres. The orchestra celebrated its Centennial during the 2023/24 concert season and now serves more than 340,000 people each year through live performances at Boettcher Concert Hall, Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre,
and other venues throughout Colorado’s Front Range. Support for the 2026/27 Colorado Symphony Season is provided by: The Scientific & Cultural Facilities District (SCFD), Denver Arts & Venues, Bonfils-Stanton Foundation, CU Anschutz, The Schoen Foundation, and the Colorado Symphony Guild.
| Denver Urban Spectrum - www.denverurbanspectrum.com - November 2026
emotionally moving work inspired by the life and legacy of Elijah McClain, featuring Colorado Symphony concertmaster Yumi Hwang-Williams as soloist. Coming to Boettcher Concert Hall April 2-4, 2027, #elijah is a deeply personal artistic response to the events surrounding McClain’s death. Rather than recounting history alone, the work invites audiences into a broader conversation about compassion, empathy, racial justice, and our shared humanity through the universal language of music. Like Wineglass, McClain was a Black musician — a violinist — and Wineglass was inspired by the commission to tell the story of the 23-year-old man through music. The result, said Wineglass, “is a virtuosic piece, about nine minutes long, and it really encapsulates in the different movements who Elijah was.” According to those who knew Elijah, McClain was a gentle soul and a selftaught musician known for taking his instruments to a nearby animal shelter, where he played his music to relax the animals. The work has been praised for creating space for reflection, healing, and dialogue while demonstrating
resident, she described the experience of recording a work inspired by Elijah McClain as both “compact and powerful,” capturing “both the beauty and brutality, but also providing solace.” “It was an incredibly moving experience for me to be a part of this project, especially given my local connection and the outpouring of support and protests that his death had ignited,” Hwang-Williams said. Now, for the first time, she will perform #elijah with her own orchestra, bringing the work to the Colorado community whose story inspired its creation.
the unique power of live orchestral performance to address contemporary issues. The Colorado premiere also carries special significance for the Colorado Symphony through Concertmaster Yumi Hwang-Williams, who performed the work’s featured violin solo during its 2022 recording with the London Symphony Orchestra. For HwangWilliams, the project was deeply personal. As a longtime Colorado
For tickets or more information, visit coloradosymphony.org or call 303.623.7876.
in what’s next. To learn more, email giving@coloradosymphony.org. ♦
Interested in supporting future commissions by the Colorado Symphony? Learn more about the Composers Circle, the Colorado Symphony’s newest Affinity Group, which brings together people who believe in the importance of new music and want to help shape the Colorado Symphony’s artistic future. Gifts of any size support the creation of bold, new work, while members become part of a community united by a shared interest
Editor’s note: Dragon Conducts Brahms’ 4th and #elijah with Yumi Hwang-Williams will perform at Boettcher Concert Hall on Friday, April 2 and Saturday, April 3, 2027 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, April 4, 2027 at 1 p.m. Tickets are available online at coloradosymphony. org/tickets, by phone at 303.623.7876, and in person at the Boettcher Concert Hall Box Office, Denver Performing Arts Complex, 1000 14th Street. The Box Office is open Monday - Saturday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. and 90 minutes prior to each performance.
Together, these Colorado premieres highlight a season that celebrates not only the enduring masterpieces of classical music, but also the composers shaping its future. By investing in new commissions, presenting important contemporary works, and collaborating with today’s leading artistic voices, the Colorado Symphony continues to fulfill its mission to inspire and unite humanity through live symphonic music. Tickets for the April 2-4 performances, along with the remaining 2026/27 Season, are available now.
D I SCOV E R T H E
Value OF A WIND CREST R E TI R EM E N T
We’re the premier senior living community in Highlands Ranch. Here, you gain more for your hard-earned money.
Learn more today. Call 1-888-852-7611 for your free brochure.
2975550
Highlands Ranch WindCrest.com Wind Crest, Inc.,® a nonprofit organization, is solely responsible for fulfilling financial responsibilities to residents under the contract. Wind Crest is within the network of communities developed and managed by Erickson Senior Living.®
Denver Urban Spectrum - www.denverurbanspectrum.com - November 2026
| 13
A NEW STANDARD Begins with Curate Elevated Real Estate Service Designed for Every Client By Barry Overton
W
hen you trust someone with your next real estate move, you deserve to know what they stand for and what they are prepared to do for you. Your goals deserve serious attention. Your questions deserve answers. And your experience should leave you confident about the decisions you made. That is the standard behind Curate, the real estate group I created within eXp Realty. We are bringing an elevated approach to buying and selling, with the conviction that exceptional service belongs at every price point. My 26 years in law enforcement and 25 years in real estate have taught me to read a situation, adjust, and keep serving. During the 2008 market crash, I changed how I practiced real estate to meet the needs of that market. Adapting allowed me to continue finding success when the familiar approach no longer fit. I felt this was the time to form this team. We are in the midst of one of the most challenging markets we have experienced in the last decade. Sellers are losing equity and, in some cases, losing their home. Buyers are paying higher interest rates or pausing their plans on becoming homeowners. And agents are leaving the business, due to the lack of business. But there some little-known strategies that allow everyone to win if they know how to navigate the real estate market. I have always believed that someone is always buying real estate and someone is always selling it. Our job is to identify those buyers and sellers, bring them together, and help each move forward. That demands current knowledge of market trends, opportunities, and the negotiating advantages a client may have. Our responsibility is to understand the market we are in and help people navigate it with confidence.
select thoughtfully, with a particular person in mind. Our mission is to bring that intention to your real estate experience. We begin with what matters to you, then build the guidance, resources, and service around your goals. You should feel the value of that attention throughout the process. Whether you are purchasing your first $200,000 condominium or selling a multimillion-dollar home in the Colorado mountains, our standard of care remains the same. The price of a property should never determine how valued a client feels. We are building a brand with the style and care associated with luxury, made for everyone. Purchasing power should never be the price of admission to an elevated experience. To us, that begins with returned calls, clear explanations, and careful attention to details. It means having an advocate who respects your time and welcomes your questions. Then we take the experience further. Our approach includes VIP black car transportation to closing and the option to close at home or at the office when possible. We connect clients with vetted vendors and business professionals, with preferred pricing arranged for those we serve. Optional VIP concierge support extends that attention to lifestyle needs. These services put convenience into practice. From preparing a property for sale to coordinating the steps between an accepted offer and closing, we aim to carry as much of the workload as possible. When a challenge appears,
That responsibility gives our name its meaning. To curate is to 14
| Denver Urban Spectrum - www.denverurbanspectrum.com - November 2026
you deserve a clear explanation of your options and a team ready to work through the next step. Your agent also brings the strength of the group. Shared experience and fresh perspectives can sharpen a strategy or help resolve a complicated situation. Education is equally essential. You should understand what you are signing and how each decision serves your goals. We want you informed enough to participate confidently in your own success. Our vision reaches beyond individual transactions. We live in a diverse society, and our team should reflect it. I often think of a community as a box of crayons: different colors standing side by side, each with its own identity and a place in the same box. Harmony begins with belonging. People of every background deserve respect wherever they choose to make a home. No community should be left behind.
We hold an equally strong commitment to the agents who join us. Their growth deserves deliberate investment. I see 25 years of experience as knowledge I have a responsibility to pass forward. Through mentoring, coaching, and practical training, we will provide the guidance and expertise too often overlooked in an agent’s development. We want agents to recognize market shifts, build stronger businesses, and find success sooner. As their skills grow, clients benefit from stronger representation. Ultimately, curate aims to reshape and reimagine how real estate is done for both the client and the agent. We want every buyer and seller to reach the closing table feeling heard, prepared, and cared for, then carry that confidence into the next chapter. Long after the keys change hands, the memory should remain: you hired people who understood what home meant to you and delivered service worthy of that trust. curate. A Tailored Path to Exceptional Living ♦ Editor’s note: Barry Overton is a Denverbased real estate advisor, veteran, and mentor. He helps investors, homeowners, and agents unlock wealth-building opportunities across the country. Follow him for more insights on market trends, AI in real estate, and personal development for entrepreneurs. Contact him at 303-668-5433
TOO YOUNG TO BE This Strong Why Standing at Colorado’s Youth Caregiving Gala Broke My Heart All Over Again endurance is a cheap way for adults to pat themselves on the back while walking away. Applause doesn’t pay for home health aides. Calling a teenager “inspiring” doesn’t give back their sleep, sanity, or youth.
By Omarion Calloway
W
hen you’re 10 years old, your hands are not supposed to shake while measuring out adult medication. You shouldn’t know the exact dead weight of a human body because you have to haul your paralyzed uncle out of bed, or how to handle raw bodily care before learning long division. I grew up caring for my Nana and my uncle. Nobody asked if I wanted the job. Love didn’t give me an out, and survival left no room to breathe. While kids at school argued over video games, I sat at my desk with my stomach tied in brutal knots, praying nobody died while I was stuck in class. On October 8, 2026, I stood at the podium as the keynote speaker for the Colorado Alliance for Caregiving Youth (CACY) fundraising gala at The Cube Central Park in Denver. The theme was “Too Young to Be This Strong: How We Can Lighten the Load.” Standing under those blinding lights, I didn’t feel like an honored guest. I felt the exact same crushing chest pain I carried as a kid. I didn’t want to deliver a polite, comfortable speech to make adults feel good. I wanted to rip the lid off the illusion of what it means to have your childhood stolen.
The Dirty Secret Nobody Wants to Say Out Loud We love to romanticize children who step up for their families, sticking them on pedestals and calling them resilient. But youth caregiving isn’t a heartwarming story. It is brutal, dark, and soul-crushing.
According to Colorado Healthy Kids survey data championed by CACY, roughly 20.4% of middle schoolers and 12.5% of high schoolers across the state care for a sick, disabled, or elderly family member. In some districts, that number spikes to 31%. In almost every classroom, a kid is sitting quietly, carrying a secret that is actively breaking them, cooking meals, administering meds, managing physical mobility, and absorbing adult trauma before homeroom.
should never feel guilty for wanting your life back.
Here is the truth I was terrified to admit for years out of pure guilt: I was furious, and I resented every second of it.
Recognition matters, but after the event, CACY’s founder, Nadine Roberts Cornish, shared a story about a young caregiver named Belle that cut to my core. Belle balanced high school, drill team, earning her CNA license, and caring for her granddad full-time. When told they wanted to celebrate her, Belle didn’t smile. She dropped a truth bomb that should haunt every adult in power: “I don’t want to be celebrated. I need help.”
I loved my Nana and uncle with every ounce of my being. But love didn’t stop me from staring out the window, choking back tears, wishing to be a normal kid for one day. It didn’t cure the bone-deep fatigue or the rage of carrying the weight of a grown man before knowing who I was. You can love your family to death and still feel completely destroyed by what it takes to keep them afloat. You
“I Don’t Want to Be Celebrated. I Need Help.” The night recognized kids carrying impossible loads — like Dominic, a National Junior Honor Society student balancing grades while caring for his grandmother with 24/7 dementia, who finally got a rare night to feel seen.
Hearing those words ripped me back to my own reality. Praising a child’s
And believe me when I say I am sick and tired of that word. I have been forced to be “strong” my whole life for 16 long years, and staying resilient didn’t save me from burnout, night terrors, or a stolen childhood. While society pats us on the back, we are silently drowning in plain sight. We don’t need another compliment to swallow our tears to. Something has to change. Something real has to be done. That is why CACY exists. They bridge the gap between schools, healthcare providers, and communities so young caregivers are identified, valued, and given real support — building a safety net so kids don’t navigate adult responsibilities alone.
Who Cares for the Caregiver? I can’t rescue my 10-year-old self or erase the nights I cried in total silence. But I will be darned if I stay quiet and watch the next generation go through the same nightmare. My goal on that stage wasn’t to collect polite applause. It was to force every adult in that room to face one question: Who is caring for the caregiver when the caregiver is still a child? We need actual systems across schools, healthcare, and communities— real respite care, direct resources, and mental health support. To every kid out there waking up before dawn to give injections, change medical sheets, or hold a household together: I see you. You have every right to be angry and exhausted. You deserve to be visible, valued, and protected, and you deserve a whole lot more than praise. You deserve someone to step up and finally take the weight off your shoulders. ♦ Editor’s note: For more information and to support caregiving youth, visit CACY at cacycares.org
Denver Urban Spectrum - www.denverurbanspectrum.com - November 2026
| 15
WORLD Observance is Tuesday, AIDS DAY December 1 at 6pm
T
he Denver metro community is invited to come together to commemorate World AIDS Day on Tuesday, Dec. 1 at Park Hill United Methodist Church (PHUMC). This is a free community event and attendees are requested to register. Since 1988, communities across the globe have stood together on World AIDS Day to show strength and solidarity. World AIDS Day exists to shine a light on the real experiences of people living with HIV, celebrating the strength, resilience, and diversity of the communities most affected. On December 1, World AIDS Day will raise awareness about HIV, honor those who have died of AIDS, and celebrate medical and social progress in confronting the epidemic. 2026 marks the 11th anniversary of a World AIDS Day observance
16
taking place at PHUMC. “Gathering in community could not be more important in this time of cuts to federal HIV and AIDS prevention, treatment, and care support” shared Jess Wiederholt, chair of the event committee, and founder of Crazy Love Africa. “Observing World AIDS Day is just one way that local health providers, nonprofits, and faith communities are responding.” The evening begins at 6 p.m. with a catered reception and resource fair featuring more than a dozen organizations working in, or supportive, of HIV resources, the LGBTQ+ community, and more. “Last year we had a very positive response to the resource fair” shared Justin Levy, executive director of the Center for Health and Hope, one of the organizers of the event. “There are many amazing organizations and resources in the Denver metro area that are making a difference for people every day.” The evening’s program follows at 7 p.m. One of the highlights will be a chance to “wander” throughout the sanctuary at PHUMC where there will be multiple activations to remember loved ones and lift up those affected by HIV and AIDS. Colorado House District 8 representative, Lindsay Gilchrist, will welcome those in attendance. Lindsey is currently the Chair of the Health and Human Services Committee in the Colorado General Assembly. Throughout
| Denver Urban Spectrum - www.denverurbanspectrum.com - November 2026
the evening, music will be performed by the World AIDS Day Ensemble, led by Daryl J. Walker, minister of Worship & Arts with Park Hill United Methodist Church, as well as Jerome Síbulo, director of Music & Arts Ministry with Trinity United Methodist Church. The evening’s program will feature two inspiring speakers. Andrew Pulsipher is a family consultant with the Children’s Hospital Immunodeficiency Program and serves on the Denver HIV Resource Planning Council. Born with HIV, Andrew lost both of his parents to AIDS during childhood. Today, he brings his lived experience and professional perspective to his work supporting others impacted by HIV. He is also a proud father of three children. Rica “Muñeca” Rodriguez, is the founder and executive director of Promotores de Esperanza. Rica has been living with HIV since 1989 and undetectable since 2000. Formerly incarcerated, she is in long-term recovery, a proud Latina, a mother, and a fierce harm reduction and community advocate who has transformed some of the hardest chapters of her life into pathways of hope for others. According to the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment’s Office of STI/HIV/Viral Hepatitis, 15,997 people were living with HIV in Colorado as of December 31, 2025. Behind that number are individuals
with families, friendships, hopes, and stories that deserve to be heard. HIV is more than a public health statistic; it is part of the lives of our neighbors, loved ones, and communities. World AIDS Day is an opportunity to come together to remember those we have lost to AIDS-related illnesses, celebrate the lives of people living with HIV, and recognize the generations whose compassion, advocacy, and resilience have shaped our response to the epidemic. This year’s theme, “Rebuild. Rethink. Rise,” invites all to strengthen the connections that bring everyone together, reconsider how to care for and support one another, and move forward with hope and purpose. As everyone gather, we honor the progress made while recognizing that stigma, grief, and challenges remain. Above all, World AIDS Day reminds all that every person matters, every story has value, and no one should have to navigate HIV alone. To register, visit https://www. eventbrite.com/e/world-aids-dayobservance-tickets-2002304640079 Event Committee Organizers (as of October 19): Center for Health and Hope, Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment, Crazy Love Africa, Denver Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Gilead, One Colorado, Park Hill United Methodist Church, Rocky Mountain Equality, The Center on Colfax, Trinity United Methodist Church, Viiv Health, Vivent Health and Walker Music Academy Event Sponsors (as of October 19): Center for Health and Hope, Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment, Crazy Love Africa, Denver Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc., First Baptist Church of Denver, Gilead, Global Livingston Institute, Iliff School of Theology, Mile High Behavioral Health, Montana de Luz, One Colorado, Park Hill United Methodist Church, Planned Parenthood of the Rocky Mountains, Rocky Mountain Equality, Saint John’s Cathedral, Saint Thomas Episcopal Church, Servicios de la Raza, Tepeyac Community Health Center, The Alexander Foundation, The Center on Colfax, The Church of the Holy Redeemer and the Pauli Murray Social Justice Coalition Center, Trinity United Methodist Church, United Methodist Association of Retired Clergy, ViiV Healthcare, Vivent Health and Walker Music Academy. ♦ Editor’s note: The event will be held Park Hill United Methodist Church, 5209 Montview Blvd. in Denver with catered food, beverages and a resource fair at 6 p.m.; followed with a program at 7 p.m.
THRIVE AND FLOURISH
OPENING 2026
Melior Adult Day Care 1555 S. Havana, Unit W Aurora, CO 80012
A Holistic Day Program for Seniors OUR PROGRAM SERVICES
Health & Well-Being Education and Lifelong Learning Safety, Protection and Fraud Prevention Daily Enrichment and Joyful Engagement
Registration is NOW Open Accepting Medicaid and self-pay customers FOR INFORMATION AND ELIGIBILITY
1-720-535-6378 info@meliorhealth.com www.melioradc.com
Presented in partnership with the Ruth Boyd Elder Abuse Foundation Denver Urban Spectrum - www.denverurbanspectrum.com - November 2026
| 17
FAMILY, LAUGHTER
AND HEALING Take Center Stage in Chicken & Biscuits
F
amily gatherings can bring out the best in people—and reveal the tensions simmering just beneath the surface. In Douglas Lyons’ Chicken & Biscuits, even a funeral becomes an occasion for laughter, uncomfortable truths and the possibility of healing. Firehouse Theater Company will present the regional premiere of the comedy November 21 through December 20 at the John Hand Theater, 7653 E. 1st Place in Denver. Directed by Adrienne MartinFullwood, the production explores family relationships through a story rooted in Black joy, grief and love.
the gathering reveals the friction—and affection—among people who know exactly how to push one another’s buttons. Martin-Fullwood describes the production as a “dramedy,” blending dramatic moments with comedy. “The play portrays an upstanding family that appears to be normal until the truth unravels and reveals the dysfunction,” she says. “I love this quirky but realistic play. It shows us that some Black funerals just can’t be sugarcoated. The truth hurts, but can be hilarious.” With warmth and humor, Chicken & Biscuits examines the bonds that hold families together through difficult moments. Its characters must contend with more than the loss of a loved one; they also face the challenge of coming together despite their differences. The cast features Marisa D. Hebert, Kenya Mahogany Fashaw, Jonathan Underwood, Jozeph Mykaels, Sade Houston, Marissa Joy, Sydney Morenike and Johnny Woj, with Mercedz Pratt serving as swing.
The play follows the Jenkins family as they gather at St. Luke’s Church to lay their beloved patriarch, Bernard, to rest. Along with their memories, family members bring strong personalities, complicated histories and unfinished business. As they navigate their loss,
18
| Denver Urban Spectrum - www.denverurbanspectrum.com - November 2026
Performances are scheduled for Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. during the production’s run. Tickets are $32, with a group rate of $27 per person for parties of 10 or more. ♦ Editor’s note: For tickets and additional information, visit firehousetheatercompany.com or call 303-562-3232.
SISTA SOUL Music and Gratitude to
BRINGS Dazzle with SoulGiving D enver recording artist Sista Soul will introduce a new holiday gathering when SoulGiving: An Annual Celebration of Music, Love, Gratitude & Community debuts Nov. 28 at 6 p.m. at Dazzle Denver.
“I’m not just creating a show; I’m creating a gathering: a place where people can share an experience, make memories and feel like they belong,” she said. Gratitude is central to that vision. Sista Soul describes it as a way to recognize what remains meaningful even amid challenges, and she hopes the evening will offer listeners a chance to release everyday stress and reconnect through music. “Music can reach places that conversation can’t always reach,” she said. “It can remind you of someone, help you release something you’ve been carrying, or simply make you feel understood without saying a word.”
Centered on live soul music and connection, the inaugural event reflects the singer’s desire to create an annual tradition where people can pause during the busy holiday season, enjoy one another’s company and celebrate the relationships that sustain them. “Life can become so busy that we sometimes forget to simply be present with one another,” said Sista Soul. “I wanted to create something that gives people a reason to slow down, come together and celebrate what truly matters: music, love, gratitude and community.”
throughout her work. Her music explores hope, resilience, healing and self-love, themes she hopes will resonate with audiences gathering during Thanksgiving weekend.
For the Denver-based singer, songwriter, producer and engineer, SoulGiving extends a message woven
Her sophomore album, Soul Reflections, released in April 2025, followed her debut, Celebration.
According to her announcement, the single “Pink and Purple Skies” reached No. 1 on the UK Urban Influencer Chart in July 2025. With SoulGiving, she hopes to bring the connection she experiences through performing into a recurring community celebration.
The first SoulGiving invites Denver audiences to help establish a tradition rooted in that shared experience. Sista Soul hopes guests will leave feeling uplifted, more connected to one another and ready to carry a spirit of gratitude beyond the evening. ♦ Editor’s note: For tickets and additional information, visit sistasoulmusic.com. For inquiries, email Omar Cooper at SistaSoulBooking@gmail.com or call 303-619-8944.
Good News, Denver! COMPOST NO TRASH • NO BASURA
Food-soiled paper is now accepted in Solid Waste Management compost carts, in addition to all food scraps and yard debris.
For the full list of accepted and not accepted items, and to learn more about this update, visit
Denvergov.org/Compost Denver Urban Spectrum - www.denverurbanspectrum.com - November 2026
| 19
BLACK PUBLIC MEDIA
Brings The Story Of The Morgue Twins To YouTube
T
he Morgue Twins premiered last month on Black Public Media’s (BPM) AfroPoP Digital Shorts series. Rebecca Blandón’s film follows retired mortuary technicians and identical twins Marvin and Melvin Morgan as they reflect on two decades of work in New York City’s death-care industry and consider their own mortality. The film is streaming on Black Public Media’s YouTube channel. For more than two decades, the Morgan twins, who were named after a funeral home, worked in close proximity to death. Melvin worked at Elmhurst Hospital, including when it was an epicenter of New York City’s COVID-19 pandemic; Marvin worked at the New York City Medical Examiner’s Office and served after tragedies like the September 11, 2001, attacks, and the American Airlines Flight 587 crash in Queens later that year. As technicians, their duties were exacting and intimate: collecting bodies, assisting with autopsies and caring for the dead. In their spare time, the twins advocated for the living — creating local sports youth leagues, advocating for voter rights, and collaborating with the city council to create a safe and thriving community. In the film, the brothers speak candidly about the toll their work has had on their psyches and how it informs their perspectives on life and death.
20
Blandón, a Nicaraguan-American documentary filmmaker born and raised in the Bronx, served as director, cinematographer and editor of the film. Her independent films, including Corpus Christi, Glen Eden and Run the Meter, have screened at festivals, been exhibited at museums and received support from The Bronx Documentary Center, The Jacob Burns Film Center, Rooftop Films and the New York State Council on the Arts. As a visual journalist, she has created awardwinning work for news organizations including The New York Times, Axios, PBS Frontline and The Boston Globe. BPM is a Harlem-based national media arts nonprofit that funds and helps distribute stories about the Black experience and supports the
| Denver Urban Spectrum - www.denverurbanspectrum.com - November 2026
filmmakers and media makers who tell them. “Rebecca’s film is a moving portrait of two brothers who spent more than two decades facing what most of us look away from, meeting death with professionalism, humanity and grace,” said Denise A. Greene, BPM director of programs and curator of AfroPoP Digital Shorts. “The twins’ service is part of an enduring tradition of care in Black communities, where tending to the deceased has long been an act of dignity, service and respect.” With The Morgue Twins, BPM continues its commitment to advancing Black stories, despite Congress’s 2025 rescission vote, which defunded public media and eliminated
About Black Public Media Black Public Media supports the development of visionary content creators and distributes stories about the global Black experience to inspire a more equitable and inclusive future. For nearly 50 years, we’ve invested more than $18 million toward iconic documentaries and innovative immersive media projects. We help independent makers — especially those whose work might otherwise be overlooked — bring their stories to life and reach audiences. BPMsupported projects have earned numerous awards, including five Anthem Awards, five Emmys, 10 Peabodys, 14 Emmy nominations and an Academy Award nomination $1.8 million from BPM’s budget. In response, BPM launched the Black Stories Production Fund, supported by a grassroots fundraising campaign. The 1.8 Million Donors campaign seeks to raise $9 million to help ensure that Black stories are never again left vulnerable to political interference or chronic underinvestment. Watch The Morgue Twins on Black Public Media’s YouTube channel. ♦ Editor’s note: To support BPM’s Black Stories Production Fund, visit: https://secure. everyaction.com/IkFxVSdjX0qpQkceW1r27g2. For more information about BPM, go to blackpublicmedia.org or follow it on social media at @blackpublicmedia (IG, FB, TikTok and LinkedIn).
• Individuals 62 and older + other household members welcome • Studio & 1-bedroom apartments • Mandatory meal program (exemptions offered) • Units are waitlisted
Contact us today! 303.399.1146
To Apply
Call: 303.399.1146 or TTY 800.669.2656 Email: Info@KavodSeniorLife.org Pick up 24/ 7: Lobby - 22 S. Adams St., Denver Download: KavodSeniorLife.org/Affordable-senior-living
Kavod Senior Life is a nonprofit, nonsectarian organization providing housing and services to older adults without discrimination based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, disability, or familial status.
CLEO PARKER ROBINSON DANCE PRESENTS
GRANNY DANCES TO A Holiday DRUM
THE 35 TH ANNIVERSARY
AFFORDABLE HOUSING for OLDER ADULTS!
DECEMBER 5-20 2026
PHOTOS: STAN OBERT
GRANNY’S MOVED TO A NEW HOME!
TICKETS @ WWW.CLEOPARKERDANCE.ORG
Denver Urban Spectrum - www.denverurbanspectrum.com - November 2026
| 21
HOW FAR have we come since 1928? A century-old communist pamphlet laid out 12 grievances that are still unresolved. By Thomas Holt Russell, III
but it was widely distributed and printed for American consumption. Pepper noted that the pamphlet articulated the Black community’s demands.
I
buy old books and documents that interest me or have historical value. For a couple of dollars, I purchased a communist pamphlet from 1928 that outlined the political, social, and financial demands of African Americans. I compared where we are today to where we were then. This is the first of two parts. In the late 1950s, American Opinion, an anti-communist group associated with the John Birch Society and headquartered in Belmont, Massachusetts, began circulating a pro-communist pamphlet titled American Negro Problems. The pamphlet was first published in 1928 and urged “Negroes” to join the Communist Party. Why did an anti-communist organization dig up a communist pamphlet from 1928 and start distributing it to its followers? The far-right activist wanted to use the pamphlet to prove that the African American Civil Rights movement was rooted in and inspired by communism. There were 12 demands in the pamphlet that the anti-communist wanted to prove were an evil plan to cause “racial strife in America”. But reading the demands today, it is incredible that they associated evil with such demands as Black voting rights, equal access to hotels and restaurants, abolition of Jim Crow laws, a federal anti-lynching law, school integration, equal jury service, and ending laws against interracial marriage.
Pepper was a proud communist. He believed in revolutions for the world’s proletariat. He wanted to overthrow capitalism and help organize Black workers under the Communist Party. He believed racism in America A reissued communist pamphlet, redistributed by an antiwas something communist organization. that should be incorporated into During the summer and fall of the communist fight. In this pamphlet, 1928, the Sixth World Congress of he went further left by suggesting a the Communist International was Black national liberation movement held in Moscow. The delegates and even a political party in the South. debated the “Negro question.” The Thirty years after the initial publication, congress spent much time on the anti-communists distributed the same subject and recognized the plight of pamphlet as evidence of a sinister plan. African Americans, especially in the Pepper eventually rubbed some Southern states. Pepper wrote an party members the wrong way. He article on the topic that appeared in became involved in factional struggles the Communist International press inside the international Communist and later in American Communist movement. His association with Jay Party publications. In October 1928, Lovestone (who clashed with Joseph it was published in the journal The Stalin over control of the American Communist (apt name) as American Communist Party) eventually damaged Negro Problems. The American his position as Stalin consolidated Communist Party then turned the control. He returned to the Soviet Union. article into a pamphlet. It is unknown whether it was ever presented formally, During Stalin’s Great Purge, he was
John Pepper was a Hungarian Communist Revolutionary, born in Budapest in 1886. His birth name was József Pogány. He held positions in the Hungarian Soviet Republic and served as an official of the Communist International (Comintern) in Moscow. He embedded himself deeply in the American Communist Movement and was deeply involved in the American Communist Party. In 1925, he was heading the Information Department of the Comintern’s Executive Committee in Moscow. 22
| Denver Urban Spectrum - www.denverurbanspectrum.com - November 2026
arrested and executed in Moscow on February 8, 1938, at age 51. An examination of the original twelve demands shows a clear misunderstanding or outright dismissal of the African American situation in America. Not one of these demands is radical. As a matter of fact, these are only common rights that all people should have, nothing outrageous at all. It may be difficult to read these demands and understand why anyone would consider them radical. Here are the demands as presented in the pamphlet: 1. Abolition of the whole system of race discrimination. Full racial, political, and social equality for the Negro race. 2. Abolition of all laws which result in segregation of Negroes. Abolition of all Jim Crow laws. The law shall forbid all discrimination against Negroes in selling or renting houses. 3. Abolition of all laws which disfranchise Negroes. 4. Abolition of laws forbidding intermarriage of persons of different races. 5. Abolition of all laws and public administration measures which prohibit or in practice prevent Negro children or youth from attending general public schools or universities. 6. Full and equal admittance of Negroes to all railway station waiting rooms, restaurants, hotels, and theaters.
7. Federal law against lynching and the protection of the Negroes masses in their right of self-defense. 8. Abolition of discriminatory practices in courts against Negroes. No discrimination in jury service. 9. Abolition of the convict lease system and of the chain gang. 10.Abolition of all Jim Crow distinctions in the Army, Navy, and civil service. 11.Immediate removal of all restrictions and all trade unions against the membership of Negro workers. 12.Equal opportunity for employment, wages, hours, and working conditions for black and white workers. Equal pay for equal work for black and white workers.
What happened to the twelve demands as a whole? This is how I would score this document: One of the first things you may notice is that number 7, anti-lynching law, was not achieved until 2022. Demand 7 also calls for the right to selfdefense. Today it is generally known
that all citizens have a right to defend themselves. Trayvon Martin, a teenager, was attacked and killed not for what he did, but for what he was perceived to be. A jury agreed that the perception of a Black person, a youth in this case, is a good enough reason to deny him his right to defend himself. That’s just one example of a demand that we are still dealing with. Two other quick notes: these demands are so normal and so obvious; I find it almost a farce that these demands are a “Program of racial strife for the United States.” As stated by the far-right group that redistributed this pamphlet. One last thought about this document: at least 10 of those demands are current problems, and by no small means. Marrying a White person is not much of a problem today. However, housing discrimination, employment and pay, and integrated schools are still very much with us. For Part II, I will elaborate on each demand and figure out where we stand today as a democratic, capitalist nation. ♦ Editor’s note: Thomas Holt-Russell, III is founder of SEMtech (Student Engagement & Mentoring in Tech), a writer, educator, photographer, modern-day Luddite, Existentialist and Secular Humanist
Denver Urban Spectrum - www.denverurbanspectrum.com - November 2026
| 23
ONE RIPPLE at a Time
The Greatest Blessings Aren’t on the Table By Karen Davis
S
oon, kitchens will be filled with the wonderful aromas of turkey, dressing, sweet potatoes, and all those family favorites we look forward to each year. Families will gather around tables, laughter will fill living rooms, and somewhere, somebody will remind everyone that nobody eats until the blessing has been said!
But instead of simply asking everyone what they’re thankful for, ask each person to name someone at the table who has made a difference in their life this year. And then let them tell that person why. Imagine what a child might feel hearing their father say, “I’m so proud to be your dad.”
It’s a beautiful tradition. One I hope we never lose.
What if the greatest blessing at our Thanksgiving table isn’t what’s being served, but who’s sitting around it? And what if, in all our preparations to make the holiday special, we’re overlooking the very people we’re preparing it for? We’re working hard, managing responsibilities, paying bills, and rushing from one obligation to another. We’re doing what we believe we’re supposed to do. But I wonder how often we stop and ask ourselves: Are the people I love getting the best of me, or just what’s left of me? Especially when it comes to our children. Children don’t always know how to tell us they’re missing us. Sometimes
it comes through an unexpected hug, a request to play a game, or a story that seems to go on forever. Sometimes it’s the teenager who lingers in the kitchen, hoping we’ll ask how their day really went. And sometimes, sadly, they stop asking altogether.
For some families, this will be the first Thanksgiving without someone they dearly love. For others, years have passed, but the absence still hurts.
Not because they no longer need our attention, but because they’ve grown accustomed to competing for it.
And sometimes, an empty chair isn’t the result of death. Sometimes it’s a disagreement that was never resolved. Words spoken in anger. A misunderstanding that became years of silence.
Our children need more than our instructions and corrections. They need our connection. They need to know that home is a place where they are heard, valued, accepted, and loved, even on their most difficult days.
Not every relationship can or should be restored. Some situations require boundaries, healing, and time. But where reconciliation is possible, perhaps this Thanksgiving is an opportunity to take that first step.
If all you can offer this year is your presence, that’s not small. That’s everything.
A simple phone call. A heartfelt apology. An invitation. Three words: “I miss you.” Sometimes the smallest gestures open doors that pride has kept closed for years.
And while we’re thinking about the people gathered around our tables, I want us to think about the empty chairs, too.
Don’t wait until someone is missing from your table to appreciate their place in it. Tell people what they mean to you while they’re here to hear it. And love them in ways they can actually feel. And I also recognize that not every family gathering will look like the beautiful pictures we see on social media. Some families are grieving. Some are struggling financially. Some are facing illness, separation, or uncertainty. If that’s you, please hear my heart. You don’t need a perfect Thanksgiving to have something worth being thankful for. Maybe this year gratitude looks like having enough food for one more meal. A child who still
24
Those blessings matter, too. So, here’s my Thanksgiving invitation. Before the dishes are cleared and everyone returns to their busy lives, create a moment that matters. After the blessing has been said and everyone has enjoyed their meal, consider going around the table.
Thanksgiving is almost here.
But this Thanksgiving, I want us to think about something beyond the food, the festivities, and even the familiar words of gratitude we share around the table.
wants to sit beside you. A friend who checks on you. The strength to get through another day.
| Denver Urban Spectrum - www.denverurbanspectrum.com - November 2026
Imagine a mother hearing her family acknowledge the sacrifices nobody usually notices. Imagine a grandparent discovering that a simple act of kindness from years ago is still remembered. Those moments cost nothing. Yet their value can last a lifetime. And when Thanksgiving is over, please don’t pack away that spirit of connection with the holiday decorations. Carry it into December. Into the new year. Into the ordinary Tuesdays when there’s no holiday reminding us to be grateful. Put your love on the calendar and keep the appointment. Make the phone call. Plan the family dinner. Spend time with your children. Check on that neighbor. Reach out to the person who’s been on your heart. Because years from now, our children may not remember every dish we served or how beautifully we decorated the table. But they will remember how we made them feel. They’ll remember the love. That’s how a ripple becomes a legacy. So, this Thanksgiving, let’s count our blessings. Let’s make sure the people we call our blessings know just how much they mean to us. One conversation. One act of kindness. One moment of reconnection. One Ripple at a Time. ♦ Editor’s note: For more information or to reach One Ripple At A Time Founder Karen Davis, call 720-767-0253, email hello@ onerippleatatime.com or visit https:// onerippleatatime.com/.
www.TDEventSpace.com
12000 E. 47th Ave. Suite #403 Denver CO 80239 303-214-9198
Jazz by Yaz Straight-ahead jazz on alto and tenor sax for events and recordings. www.riverstonejazz.com yasuo@riverstonejazz.com
Denver Urban Spectrum - www.denverurbanspectrum.com - November 2026
| 25
In the Fillmore a Congressional Race Meets the Unfinished Business of Black San Francisco By Malik Washington
T
he wooden walking stick carried a lesson before the candidates offered a single promise. I attended the October 11, 2026, congressional candidates’ town hall at historic Third Baptist Church in San Francisco’s Fillmore District. There, the Rev. Dr. Amos C. Brown described the Sankofa bird, a Ghanaian symbol of looking backward to retrieve what is necessary to move forward. For a community whose Black-owned homes, businesses and social networks were destroyed through urban renewal, the metaphor was more than ceremonial. Brown, the church’s pastor emeritus and a longtime civil rights leader, reminded those assembled of the connections among struggles for Black freedom, immigrant rights, women’s rights and LGBTQ equality. The church was not endorsing a candidate, he said. Its responsibility was to make room for difficult questions about what public officials owe the people they seek to represent. Those questions fell to two Democrats competing to succeed retiring Rep. Nancy Pelosi in California’s 11th Congressional District: Supervisor Connie Chan and state Sen. Scott Wiener. Speakers repeatedly returned to the neighborhoods, families and institutions that have experienced generations of unequal investment.
Different paths to the same seat Chan immigrated from Hong Kong at 13 and built a public-service career that included work for former Supervisor Sophie Maxwell, then-District Attorney Kamala Harris and city agencies before her election to the Board of Supervisors in 2020. Her work with Maxwell included advocacy connected to closing the polluting Potrero Power Plant, an important Bayview environmental justice fight. Wiener, a former deputy city attorney and supervisor, won his state Senate seat in 2016. His record includes housing-production measures, LGBTQ protections, healthcare legislation 26
and transportation policy. He and his supporters argue that California cannot resolve its housing shortage without building substantially more homes. Critics of his broader approach question whether relaxing development restrictions adequately protects neighborhoods. Those differences mattered in a setting where affordability cannot be separated from displacement.
What Black youth asked The church’s Youth Council asked what federal investment would improve life for Black young people confronting violence, unstable housing, underresourced schools and unequal access to healthcare and economic opportunity. Chan emphasized public education and the people and services that allow students to succeed: teachers, nurses, social workers, meals and beforeand after-school programming. She advocated affordable childcare, tuitionfree community college and training leading to jobs in healthcare, emergency services and the trades. Wiener began with housing stability. Overcrowding, poor conditions and excessive rent, he argued, affect every other part of a young person’s life. He called for federal investment in mixedincome housing and rental assistance, neighborhood clinics, school nurses, special-education funding and easier access to food benefits. I was among those dissatisfied with Wiener’s initial response. Brown and I
| Denver Urban Spectrum - www.denverurbanspectrum.com - November 2026
pressed for a more direct accounting of what federal action would mean for Black youth facing violence, housing insecurity and unequal educational opportunities. I raised the killing of a young Black woman in the community. Brown—not me—specifically proposed Afrocentric schools that would affirm Black students’ history, identity and educational needs. We wanted a response that went beyond general housing proposals to address the immediate needs of Black children and families. In his extended reply, Wiener described community-based mentoring, including programs where people returning from prison guide young people away from violence and incarceration. He also advocated housing and continued support for young adults leaving foster care, along with culturally competent healthcare through schools and neighborhood clinics. The pointed exchange produced a fuller answer. Neither candidate, however, supplied a detailed federal appropriation or implementation timetable for the Youth Council’s priorities.
Reparations require mechanisms A questioner asked both candidates about relief for descendants of people enslaved in the United States, presenting California proposals for state income-tax
exemptions, property-tax exemptions for qualifying older homeowners and continuation of the property-tax benefit for eligible heirs. Chan endorsed reparations in principle and acknowledged former Supervisor Shamann Walton’s local leadership. Her response did not establish a specific legislative plan for all three exemptions. Wiener also supported reparations and cited work alongside the California Legislative Black Caucus. He discussed slavery’s enduring effects, discriminatory housing policy and barriers to generational wealth. He pointed to his past proposal to restore a California estate tax to support economically disadvantaged children, acknowledging that it was not a descendants-only reparations measure. On the proposed exemptions, Wiener expressed willingness to examine the ideas and concern about homeowners being taxed out of their homes. He did not clearly endorse the complete package, particularly the inheritance provision. Both candidates seek federal office; the exemptions described would primarily require California action. A congressional representative could advocate, convene partners or introduce federal reparations measures, but could not unilaterally rewrite California tax law. The audience asked for mechanisms, not simply sympathy. That question remains open.
More than a plaque Brown returned to the Fillmore’s history, when urban renewal uprooted thousands of Black residents and dismantled a center of Black commerce and culture. He challenged the candidates to think beyond commemorative markers toward institutions, gathering places and a renewed cultural destination residents could use and shape. Chan spoke of rebuilding community alongside housing. Historic recognition without a living place for families and young people is insufficient. She stressed preserving Black cultural identity in decisions about the neighborhood’s future. Wiener acknowledged redevelopment’s injury and unfulfilled promises. He pointed to state legislation he said he helped pass to renew housing investment in the Western Addition and argued that federal resources should be designed with residents rather than imposed through a uniform national formula. What would community control mean in practice? A housing appropriation, a cultural institution, a locally governed development project and a guarantee that displaced families can return are not interchangeable commitments. The neighborhood has heard promises before. Residents must be able to identify the funding, decision-makers, timelines and beneficiaries.
unnecessary to investigations. Chan similarly raised civil-liberties concerns. Both must explain how safeguards would be enforced when local agencies and private vendors hold enormous amounts of information about ordinary people.
Federal promises and local consequences Immigrant families asked Chan about legal defense, long waits and uncertainty in federal proceedings. She cited city support for immigration legal services and advocated stronger protections and a pathway to citizenship. The request for measurable results was not answered with a count of families assisted or cases resolved. Wiener’s substantive immigration response was not captured clearly enough in the available proceedings to characterize fairly. Wiener advocated universal healthcare independent of employment, restoration of federal Medicaid and nutrition assistance funding, affordable childcare and national paid family leave. Chan emphasized maintaining education, health and social-service investments while protecting immigrant communities and working families.
Technology and the right to consent
Both called for stronger federal voting-rights protections. Chan defended broad access to registration and voting. Wiener cited California’s vote-by-mail system and same-day registration and proposed independent redistricting nationwide to curb partisan gerrymandering and protect representation.
Questions about data centers and surveillance brought another dimension of community control into focus. Chan called for a nationwide pause on data center development while government addresses environmental, privacy and labor consequences. She warned against surveillance that can target protesters or communities already subject to disproportionate scrutiny.
Both also criticized President Donald Trump’s policies. Wiener argued that defeating the administration would be insufficient without addressing the failures that have left Americans unable to afford housing, childcare and healthcare. Chan emphasized coalitions across racial and immigrant communities and protecting vulnerable residents now.
Wiener opposed the proposed Dogpatch data center, saying the site would be better used for housing or mixed-use development. He supported the temporary citywide data center moratorium championed by Walton and co-sponsored by Chan. A local pause and a proposed nationwide moratorium are distinct policies, even when rooted in similar concerns.
Wiener also discussed investment in Muni, BART and Caltrain, along with more stable construction employment and local hiring. These priorities matter because federal decisions shape whether residents can get to work, remain housed and build economic security.
On automated license plate readers, Wiener supported stronger federal privacy rules and rapid deletion of data
roadmap for securing every proposed reform.
Questions that outlast the campaign The strongest moment belonged to community members who refused to let familiar policy language replace specific answers. The Youth Council asked what investment would reach Black children. Reparations advocates asked who would qualify and whether families could pass protected homes to their descendants. Residents asked whether the Fillmore would again become a place where Black life could flourish, rather than a district whose history survives mostly in memorials. Chan and Wiener offered substantive priorities. Chan placed particular weight on public services, community preservation and a nationwide data center pause. Wiener emphasized housing production, expanded federal benefits and privacy safeguards. They shared substantial ground on healthcare, civil rights, voting protections and community investment. But agreement on broad goals is only a beginning. Black residents deserve to know which commitments will become
legislation, how resources will reach their neighborhoods and what power they will have over decisions affecting their lives. Brown’s Sankofa lesson supplies the final standard. Looking backward is not enough if the past is acknowledged but its consequences remain unchanged. San Francisco’s next representative will inherit more than a congressional seat. The office will carry the Fillmore’s questions about restitution, safety, opportunity and whether the people most affected by policy will help write it. Their answers must be measured after the campaign ends. ♦ Editor’s note: This op-ed has been edited and condensed for space and clarity while preserving the writer’s voice and perspective. The views expressed are the author’s. Malik Washington is an investigative journalist, U.S. Army veteran and CEO of Destination Freedom Media Group, an independent nonprofit newsroom focused on accountability, civil rights and community survival. Contact him at mwashington2059@gmail.com or 719715-9592. Read the full article at https:// destination-freedom.org/in-the-fillmore-acongressional-race-meets-the-unfinishedbusiness-of-black-san-francisco/
Their records provide context, but voters still must evaluate how either candidate would translate those records into results in a closely divided Congress. Neither offered a detailed Denver Urban Spectrum - www.denverurbanspectrum.com - November 2026
| 27
Thrivin’ in Color Podcast Explores Mental Wellness, Community and Healing with Dr. Joy Harden Bradford (Black PR Wire) MIAMI, FL – Mental health and emotional well-being are essential to thriving, yet finding the space to be vulnerable, ask for help, and receive support can be challenging for many Black women and girls. In a new episode of Black PR Wire’s Thrivin’ in Color podcast, Dr. Joy Harden Bradford, a licensed psychologist, speaker, bestselling author, and host of the Therapy for Black Girls podcast, shares insights on the role of sisterhood, community, and culturally relevant approaches to mental health conversations in the healing process. Throughout the episode, Bradford discusses the importance of building meaningful connections, creating healthy support systems, and making room for vulnerability without the pressure to always be strong. She also explores how family and cultural expectations can shape the way Black women and girls approach mental health, along with the role of pop culture in making psychological concepts more relatable and accessible. “This conversation with Dr. Joy highlights why sisterhood and community are so important to our well-being,” said Camry Brown, host of Thrivin’ in Color. “It’s a reminder that we deserve spaces where we can show up as our full selves, feel supported, and understand that we don’t have to navigate life’s challenges alone.” The latest Thrivin’ in Color episode is available now on YouTube (@
and girls prioritize their mental health and connect with support.
About Thrivin’ in Color
BlackPRWire) and all major podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Therapy for Black Girls is an online space dedicated to encouraging the mental wellness of Black women and girls. Founded by Dr. Joy Harden Bradford, a licensed psychologist, speaker, and host of the widely popular Therapy for Black Girls podcast, the platform works to make mental health topics more relevant, accessible, and culturally responsive. Dr. Bradford is known for using pop culture to illustrate psychological concepts and make conversations about mental wellness more relatable. Her work and expertise have been featured in O, The Oprah Magazine, Forbes, Bustle, MTV, HuffPost, Black Enterprise, Refinery29, Teen Vogue, and Essence. Through its podcast, educational resources, and therapist directory, Therapy for Black Girls continues to help Black women
Thrivin’ in Color is a podcast produced by Black PR Wire that highlights inspiring voices making an impact across business, culture, and community. Through in-depth conversations, the show offers a behind-the-scenes look at the journeys, lessons, and lived experiences of changemakers from around the country, sharing insight and inspiration along the way. Thrivin’ In Color podcast is available on YouTube (@BlackPRWire), and all major podcast streaming platforms, including Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
About Black PR Wire Black PR Wire is the nation’s first and largest online Black newswire
THE�SANCT
distribution company and is a powerful leader in effective news delivery services. With a comprehensive database and listing of over 1,200 Black (African American, Caribbean and Haitian) organizations and media, Black PR Wire posts and distributes print, audio, video, and creative news and information to Black media, influencers, faith-based groups and prominent community organizations throughout the U.S. and the Caribbean. Services can be purchased online anytime, anywhere 24/7; or by simply calling our newsroom at 1-877-BLACKPR. Have some news to share? Or want to know what’s happening in your community? Then connect with Black PR Wire, like, share and visit us @BlackPRWire, and make Black PR Wire your online source for Black News! For more information on Black PR Wire and Thrivin’ in Color, call 1-877-BLACKPR or visit the website at blackprwire.com. ♦
THE SANCT AWAKEN. HEAL. THRIVE.
- � AWA K E N . � H E A L . � T H R I V E � -
THE SANCT: YOUR SANCTUARY FOR INNER PEACE AND PHYSICAL WELLNESS. Led by Pauline Chappell, a Certified Crystal & Reiki Master, The Sanct offers energy healing, crystal therapy, meditation, and holistic practices that restore balance. Our work helps release stress, ease emotional wounds, and support your overall well-being. Whether you’re facing anxiety, physical discomfort, a divorce, career transitions, or simply need space to recharge, The Sanct is here to guide and support you every step of the way.
OUR HEALING OFFERINGS: Reiki & Crystal healing Meridian Therapy & Chakra Realignment Guided breathwork & Meditation
CONTACT: 702-712-1501 PAULYNEK2@GMAIL.COM LOCATION: DENVER, COLORADO
LEGAL DISCLAIMER The services provided by The Sanct, including Reiki, crystal healing, meditation, breathwork, and other holistic practices, are intended for relaxation, stress reduction, and personal growth. They are not a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, treatment, or advice. Always consult with your physician or qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical concerns or conditions. The Sanct makes no claims to cure, diagnose, or treat medical or psychological conditions
28
| Denver Urban Spectrum - www.denverurbanspectrum.com - November 2026
SCAN NOW
VIEW JOBS
TURN YOUR CAREER LADDER INTO AN ELEVATOR. Careers in retail at Denver International Airport.
Go get yourflyjob.com Work that works for you.
Denver Urban Spectrum - www.denverurbanspectrum.com - November 2026
| 29
FREEDOM ACRES RANCH • MCA LUMINOCITY GALA • TIM REID ONE MAN SHOW • NAACP GALA • CBWPA GALA • CWCC TOP 25 MOST POWERFUL WOMEN
Around Town in Denver...
September and October 2026
Were you there?
Photos by Jennifer Harris, LaTerrell Bradford, Quincy Shannon and many others!
30
| Denver Urban Spectrum - www.denverurbanspectrum.com - November 2026
Holiday Turkey Specials Holiday Turkeys (Smoked or Deep Fried)
50 $60
$
Small
(14–16 lbs)
Large (18–22 lbs)
Smoked Turkey Legs
$15 $85 $165 (1 CT)
ORDER NOW
(6 CT)
(12 CT)
Order Deadline 11/20/26 Or until sold out
Pickup Wed 11/25/26 • 12–5 Pm
9668 Arapahoe Rd. • Greenwood Village, CO OrderCreole.com | (720) 434-5755
Denver Urban Spectrum - www.denverurbanspectrum.com - November 2026
| 31
In your corner, from earning a living to living what you’ve earned. A lot can change in 53 years. What matters is what stays true. Alpine Bank remains locally and employee owned, deeply committed to Colorado, and built around real relationships with the people and communities we serve. Alpine Bank. Not your everyday bank. Your bank for every day.