Hispanic Heritage Month: Denver Spotlight

Cactus is proud to call Denver, Colorado our home. For Hispanic Heritage Month, we wanted to shine a spotlight on our amazing city. Denver has a rich Hispanic heritage, with a vibrant cultural presence that has contributed significantly to the city’s history. Here are five key facts about the Hispanic heritage of Denver:

Early Hispanic Influence: Denver’s Hispanic heritage dates back to the 16th century when Spanish explorers first entered the region. The city was originally founded as a mining town during the Pike’s Peak Gold Rush of 1858-1859, attracting many Hispanic miners and settlers.
Chicano Movement: Denver played a pivotal role in the Chicano Civil Rights Movement during the 1960s and 1970s. The Crusade for Justice, founded by Rodolfo “Corky” Gonzales, was a prominent organization advocating for civil rights, education, and cultural preservation within the Hispanic community.
La Alma/Lincoln Park Neighborhood: This historic neighborhood, often referred to as La Alma, has been a focal point of Hispanic culture in Denver for generations. It’s home to the annual Chicano Music Festival and the Museo de las Americas, which showcases Latino art and culture.
El Centro Su Teatro: Founded in 1971, El Centro Su Teatro is one of the longest-standing Chicano theaters in the United States. It’s dedicated to promoting and preserving Chicano culture through theater productions, workshops, and community engagement.
National Hispanic Heritage Month: Denver celebrates National Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15 to October 15) with various events and festivals, including the Fiestas Patrias Parade and the Denver International Mariachi Festival. These celebrations showcase the rich cultural diversity within the Hispanic community.

These facts highlight the deep-rooted Hispanic heritage and cultural contributions that have shaped Denver’s identity over the years. Denver continues to honor and celebrate its rich Hispanic heritage through various cultural institutions and events.

Read more about our hometown and its hispanic heritage here: https://www.historycolorado.org/colorado-hispanic-latino-historical-overview