By I always say Colorado has a way of sneaking into your heart. One minute you’re admiring the mountains from a distance, and the next you’re telling everyone you meet that you “live in the most beautiful state in America.” So when August 1 rolls around, Colorado Day, I feel that familiar swell of pride. But this year is different. This year, Colorado turns 150, and suddenly the celebration feels bigger, deeper, and far more personal. Why? Because for those of us in the African diaspora, Colorado’s story is also our story.
As I look back on the Centennial State’s journey, I can’t help but think about the pioneers who came long before us: the Black suffragists who fought for voting rights, the farmers who built Dearfield from dust and determination, the artists and healers who carved out space in a world that didn’t always welcome them. Their courage laid the groundwork for the Colorado we know today.
And now, here we are, thousands of African immigrants calling Aurora, Denver, Boulder, Colorado Springs, Greeley, and Fort Collins home. We are raising families, building businesses, shaping policy, and adding our voices to the chorus of what makes Colorado… Colorado.
Our Community, Our Colorado
When I think about the African presence in this state, I think of the organizations that have become our anchors, the places where heritage meets innovation and where newcomers find a sense of belonging.
I think about Afrik Digest Magazine, the platform I founded to tell our stories boldly and beautifully. What started as a small idea has grown into a statewide voice— a place where culture, business, politics, and community life come together through the lens of African excellence.
I think about the African Chamber of Commerce Colorado, co‑founded by Rep. Naquetta Ricks, whose leadership continues to open doors for immigrant entrepreneurs. The Chamber is where dreams turn into LLCs, and where African business owners learn to navigate Colorado’s economic landscape with confidence.
Then there’s the Colorado African Innovation & Cultural Center (CAICC), founded by Samuel Ogah. Every time I attend the Dashiki Festival or see young people learning coding and robotics through CAICC’s programs, I’m reminded that our community is not just preserving culture — we’re shaping the future.
And who could forget the Taste of Ethiopia Festival? If you’ve ever been, you know it’s impossible to leave without a full stomach, a happy heart, and at least one new friend. It’s one of the most joyful celebrations of East African heritage in the entire state. Big ups to
And of course, there is the African Leadership Group (ALG), led by Papa Dia, which continues to be a powerhouse of civic engagement and leadership. Their Afrik Impact initiative brings together ambassadors, policymakers, business leaders, and everyday community members, proving that African voices belong in every room where decisions are made.
As Colorado celebrates 150 years, I find myself reflecting on what it means to belong. Not just to live here, but to contribute, to shape, to uplift. Our diaspora has done all of that and more. We’ve built businesses that employ Coloradans. We’ve created festivals that draw thousands. We’ve founded organizations that empower families. We’ve stepped into political spaces once closed to us. We’ve enriched the cultural landscape with food, music, dance, and storytelling. We are part of Colorado’s past, present, and most importantly, its future.
Looking Ahead
At Afrik Digest Magazine, our mission remains clear: to inform, inspire, connect, and elevate our community. As Colorado steps into its next century and a half, we step with it, boldly, proudly, and united. Colorado is great at 150. But with all of us contributing, creating, and leading, Colorado is destined to be even greater ahead.
Happy Colorado Day from all of us at Afrik Digest!
