History of Black Pride Colorado
Black Pride events have long been a vital part of the LGBTQIA2+ movement, centering the experiences, culture and resilience of Black queer communities. The first official Black Gay Pride was held in Washington, D.C., in 1991, marking the beginning of a nationwide effort to create safe spaces that address the unique challenges faced by Black LGBTQIA2+ individuals. Since then, Black Pride celebrations have expanded significantly, with over 50 events worldwide—more than 40 of them in the United States. These gatherings serve as powerful platforms for community engagement, cultural expression, and advocacy. Internationally, Black Pride events have taken root in the United Kingdom, Canada, Jamaica, the Netherlands and beyond, demonstrating a global commitment to uplifting and empowering Black LGBTQIA2+ voices.
Black Pride Colorado, also known as Black Pride Denver, was founded in 2021 to carry forward the legacy of resistance, celebration and community care in the Rocky Mountain region. The initiative was envisioned by Dr. Tara Jae, with vital support from Tyrell Rae and other powerful voices across the community. It emerged from a Black History Month collaboration hosted by YouthSeen, grounded in the urgent need for intentional, affirming spaces for Black LGBTQIA2+ individuals in Colorado. Organizers quickly mobilized to launch the state’s first Black Pride event within just six weeks. Since then, Black Pride Colorado has grown into a movement, creating culturally safe spaces and hosting events that honor and preserve the rich history, identity and contributions of Black queer communities.
Our Vision
Black Pride Colorado exists to celebrate, liberate and empower the Black LGBTQIA2+ community across the state. Founded in 2021, we are dedicated to building resilience, honoring our history and preserving Black queer culture.
Pride began as—and remains—an act of resistance. Black Pride Colorado is a space where identity, expression and joy are not just recognized but deeply valued. Through fellowship, cultural events and community-driven initiatives, we provide support, dismantle oppressive narratives surrounding mental health and wellness, and amplify Black LGBTQIA2+ voices in arts, activism and beyond.
By fostering culturally safe spaces, we stand against the intersectional challenges of racism and discrimination, ensuring that Black queer individuals have a platform to thrive authentically. In partnership with institutions like History Colorado, we work to preserve and share the rich stories that define our past, present and future.
Our Values
At Black Pride Colorado, we are Black excellence in motion. Every day, in every way. Our work is rooted in the belief that joy is revolutionary, and that community care isn’t just a concept, it’s our practice. We lead with integrity, show up with love, and make space where Black LGBTQIA2+ people and families feel seen, safe and celebrated.
We believe in…
Integrity
We do what’s right, even when no one’s watching. Integrity guides every relationship, every partnership, every decision. It’s how we build trust and and how we keep it.
Liberating Joy
Our joy is bold, refined and unapologetically ours. We honor the full spectrum of the Black queer experience, because joy isn’t the absence of struggle, it’s a refusal to be defined by it.
Resistance as Legacy
Pride began as protest. Our existence, our visibility, our thriving – that’s resistance. We stand on the shoulders of movements that dared to demand more and we carry that fire forward.
Empowerment
We believe in lifting as we climb. We amplify voices, nurture leadership and hold space for healing, growth and radical belonging.
Family, Chosen and True
We’re the only Black Pride organization in the country that centers family because we know that love and connection are at the heart of liberation. From our elders to our youth, we celebrate and support every generation.
Safe, Sacred space
We create spaces where Black LGBTQIA2+ people feel held. Where you can exhale, show up as your full self and know: “We see you. Keep going.”
Our Partners and Sponsors
We’re proud to stand alongside organizations that uplift, empower and show up for the Black LGBTQIA2+ community — not just in words, but in action. Every partner and sponsor shares our commitment to amplifying Black queer voices, celebrating authentic diversity and building unity across differences. Together, we’re creating safer spaces, deeper impact and a future where all of us can thrive.
Interested in becoming a partner or sponsor? We’d love to connect.
Email blackpridedenver@youthseen.org to request our sponsorship packet and explore how we can build something powerful – together.