Celebrating 150 Years of Colorado Statehood: What it Means for Western Slope Residents

As we approach August 1, Colorado will mark a major milestone: 150 years of statehood. To commemorate this occasion, The Colorado Sun is hosting a series of events, including the Colorado SunFest 2026, which will feature a panel discussion titled "Colorado Turns 150." This conversation will delve into the state's history, how it's been shaped, and what makes Colorado the vibrant place we call home.

Moderated by reporter Parker Yamasaki, the panel will include Jason Hanson, chief creative officer and director of interpretation & research at History Colorado, and Annie Levinsky, vice president of History Colorado. Hanson, who has worked with History Colorado since 2016, has a deep understanding of the state's history, having served as the deputy state historian and worked closely with the Colorado State Historian's Council. He's also a member of the state's American 250-Colorado 150 Commission, which is tasked with celebrating this significant anniversary.

One of the key topics the panel will explore is the "heritage audit" currently underway at History Colorado. This project aims to broaden our understanding of Colorado's history, moving beyond the traditional narratives to include a more diverse range of voices and perspectives. For Western Slope residents, this means a more nuanced understanding of our region's unique history and cultural heritage. From the Ute Native American tribes that first inhabited our lands to the early settlers who established towns like Grand Junction and Montrose, our region's story is complex and multifaceted.

Annie Levinsky, who is leading the Heritage for All project, will also share her insights on how community preservation can be reimagined. With her background in historic preservation, having served as executive director for Historic Denver, Inc. for over 12 years, Levinsky brings a wealth of knowledge to the table. Her project aims to change the way we think about preserving our cultural heritage, making it more inclusive and accessible to all Coloradans.

What You Can Do to Celebrate

So, how can you get involved in the celebration? For starters, you can attend the Colorado SunFest 2026, which will take place on May 1 at the University of Denver campus. The event will feature a range of conversations, including the "Colorado Turns 150" panel, as well as keynote speaker Dean Baquet, former New York Times editor. Tickets are available online, and it's a great opportunity to connect with fellow Coloradans and learn more about our state's rich history.

If you can't make it to the event, you can still participate in the celebration by exploring the Colorado 150 series, which will feature 150 things that make our state unique. From our stunning natural landscapes to our vibrant arts and culture scene, there's no shortage of amazing things to discover about Colorado. You can also visit the History Colorado website to learn more about the heritage audit and the Heritage for All project, and find ways to get involved in preserving our region's cultural heritage.

As we mark this significant milestone, it's a great time to reflect on what makes our state so special. From the rugged beauty of the Rocky Mountains to the fertile valleys of the Western Slope, Colorado is a place like no other. By celebrating our 150th anniversary, we're not just looking back on our history – we're also looking forward to a bright future, one that's shaped by our shared values and our commitment to preserving our unique cultural heritage.