This issue of Denver Urban Spectrum marks the first of 2024. We begin the year by commemorating civil rights leader, Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. “America: Then & Now” explores equality in the civil rights era versus today.
Each year in January, the Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo presents the MLK African American Heritage Rodeo of Champions, further celebrating the freedom fighter. The event highlights Bill Pickett and other Black cowboys and cowgirls for their contributions to the American West. Christen Aldridge provides an overview of the “Cowboy” exhibit at the Denver Museum of Contemporary Art, delving deeper into the life of Black frontiersmen as depicted by graphic artist R. Alan Brooks.
Mentorship is abundant this month, with Wayne Trujillo’s cover story featuring the Sims-Fayola Foundation and its reinvigorating partnership with the My Brother’s Keeper initiative. Local school districts are gearing up for a successful spring with Denver Public Schools beginning registrations for its Achieving Excellence Academy program. LaQuane Smith introduces Aurora Public School Board member, Tiffany Tasker, and discusses her inspiration and vision for the district.
This month’s issue also features a federal landmark designation for the historically significant Lincoln Hills, and a presidential lifetime achievement award bestowed upon a ground-breaking pilot. It pays tribute to men and women whose sacrifices created a better life – whether toward the expansion of the country or the protection of civil rights for its people.
January is a great time to set goals for the year ahead! Our goal is to keep you educated and entertained with the coverage of this year’s news and events.
Happy New Year!
Ruby Jones
DUS Editor
