Fostering Belonging Across Colorado: A Recap of the Belonging Colorado Launch Event

On June 11, the Belonging Colorado launch event, hosted by the Denver Foundation, brought together a diverse group of leaders and community members at the iconic Red Rocks in Morrison, CO. This event served as a platform for insightful discussions, powerful speeches, and the unveiling of the Colorado Belonging Barometer.

Through work from the Colorado Health Institute, the barometer revealed that only about half of Coloradans feel a sense of belonging in their local communities. This statistic underscores the need for initiatives like Belonging Colorado, which aims to bridge divides and create spaces where everyone feels welcome and valued.

The panel discussion featured esteemed speakers such as Papa Dia from the African Leadership Group, Patti Schmitt from Colorado State University, and Clark Anderson from Community Builders. Their perspectives on leadership, community building, and inclusive growth resonated deeply with the audience. Each panelist shared their unique experiences, current work, and insights on fostering a more inclusive and connected Colorado. Their dialogue emphasized the importance of grassroots efforts and collaboration in building stronger, more inclusive communities.

The keynote address by John A. Powell, Director of the Othering and Belonging Institute at UC Berkeley, was a highlight of the event. His profound insights into the dynamics of belonging and othering provided a thought-provoking framework for our discussions. His white paper (the topic of his keynote) is called Belonging: Bridging beyond Othering. You can check out more of his work here.

The Belonging Colorado launch event was not just an opportunity to discuss ideas but also a call to action. It was a reminder that fostering belonging is a collective effort that requires the participation and commitment of every Coloradan. By coming together and celebrating our differences, we can build a more inclusive, thriving state where everyone has the opportunity to succeed.

The work done by RFL aligns seamlessly with the goals of Belonging Colorado. By equipping leaders with the tools and perspectives needed to create inclusive and equitable environments, RFL is contributing to a more connected and cohesive Colorado. As we move forward, let’s carry the spirit of this event into our everyday lives. Let’s continue to engage in conversations, build connections, and take actions that foster belonging in our communities.

Together, we can build a Colorado where everyone feels they belong.