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Perspectives Needed for Colorado Black Equity Study

Attend Colorado Black Equity Study listening sessions

AARP

Published February 11, 2026

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This spring, African American and Black Coloradans have the opportunity to address past – and current – injustices that have negatively impacted families and communities across the state.

Born from a 2024 law, the Colorado Black Equity Study is an initiative tasked with researching how the State of Colorado’s practices, systems, and policies have negatively impacted African American and Black Coloradans. History Colorado will host listening sessions in March, April, and May to share updates on the study’s progress and gather input from the lived experiences of African American and Black Coloradans.

“Aging does not erase the impact of past injustices. For many older African American and Black Coloradans, inequity has been a reality across housing, work, health care and community life,” Marissa Volpe, AARP Colorado director of outreach, said.

“By taking time to listen, we honor those experiences and learn from them. When older adults share their stories, they help guide solutions that can improve conditions not only for today’s elders, but also for future generations in every community.”

When the study is completed, the research conclusions will be used to conduct an economic analysis, allowing the state’s Black Coloradan Racial Equity Study Commission to draft a final report, which could include recommendations to address the damage caused by inequitable practices, systems, and policies.

“It’s not every day that you have the chance to right the wrongs of history,” Volpe said. “This is an opportunity to address disparities that have impacted African American and Black Coloradans and make communities more livable from so many different perspectives.”

For more information on the study and to review available research updates, visit History Colorado* online.

Community Listening Session Schedule

March 21 – Boulder
Register*

April 11 – Durango
Register*

May 2 – Colorado Springs
Register*

*This is not an AARP Colorado website, event, or initiative. All personal information and experiences provided to History Colorado will be governed by its privacy policy.