The state of Colorado is the ancestral homeland and traditional territories of the Cheyenne, Arapaho and Ute Nations and includes 38 other Indigenous nations. The Rocky Mountain News often referred to the Native Americans “savages” and “uncivilized." Wars broke out, leading to the killings of Natives and raping of the Native women and decimation of the Native American culture.

In the years leading up to the 1800's, 169 acres of Auraria campus was home to the Arapaho and Cheyenne tribes.  In 1858 before Denver was Denver, Auraria was established by miners lead by the Russell brothers who were originally from Auraria, Georgia a mining town established in 1828. The term “Auraria” means gold in Latin. By 1859 a small neighborhood containing houses and various businesses was established. Just off the banks of Cherry Creek, Denver City was established, and in 1860 Auraria and Denver decided to merge. Together they become known as West Denver. As time went on, working-class and middle-class families; and businesses (such as brewery, mills, and warehouses) occupied West Denver.

In the 1920's West Denver’s population shifted from mostly European occupants to Hispanic (LatinX). The new population came from Mexico/New Mexico and Southern Colorado.

In 1965 the South Platte River flooded and put most of Auraria underwater. After the flood, it was decided redevelop Auraria. With the redevelopment came the idea to modernize Denver’s oldest establishment: Auraria. Thus, beginning the combination of three colleges on one campus. By 1972 the residents of Auraria were relocated and the campus was completed in 1976.

“Acknowledging that we reside in the homelands of Indigenous Peoples is an important step in recognizing the history and the original stewards of these lands. Land acknowledgments must extend far beyond words, the United States has worked hard to erase the narratives of Indigenous Peoples over time. Land acknowledgment statements can help to remind us of the history, the contributions and the sacrifices Native peoples have made.

We honor and acknowledge that we are on the traditional territories and ancestral homelands of the Cheyenne, Arapaho, and Ute nations. This area, specifically the confluence of the Platte and Cherry Creek Rivers was the epicenter for trade, information sharing, planning for the future, community, family and ally building, as well as conducting healing ceremonies for over 45 Indigenous Nations, including the Lakota, Kiowa, Comanche, Apache, Shoshone, Paiute, Zuni, Hopi among others.

We must recognize Indigenous peoples as the original stewards of this land and as these words of acknowledgment are spoken and heard, remember the ties these nations still have to their traditional homelands. Let us acknowledge the painful history of genocide and forced removal from this territory and pay our respect to the diverse Indigenous peoples still connected to this land. Let us also give thanks to all Tribal Nations and the ancestors of this place.”

Gracie RedShirt Tyon

Lakota

Director, American Indian Student Services