BOULDER - Today, Governor Polis visited the Boulder Museum to view a new exhibit, “Bending the Arc”, a uniquely Boulder story of LGBTQ+ rights which celebrates the 50th anniversary of six marriage licenses issued to same-sex couples in 1975 and met with members of Colorado’s LBGTQ community to hear directly about their experiences with the new administration in Washington D.C.
“It was great to hear from LGBTQ Coloradans today as we work to build a Colorado for all. These are uncertain times, and it’s more important now than ever that we work together to protect and enhance freedoms. Colorado is for everyone, no matter who you are or who you love. This exhibit highlights a story of Boulder bravery, and I am honored to see the wonderful work of artists in our community that have brought this heartwarming story of LGBTQ rights to life again. This exhibit reminds us all of the importance of our Colorado For All,” said Governor Polis.
On March 26, 1975, a marriage license was issued at the Boulder County Courthouse to Dave McCord and Dave Zamora by the County Clerk, Clela Rorex. This was the first documented time in the country that two men had been granted a marriage license. Colorado has enshrined marriage equality in the State Constitution and banned conversion therapy, ensuring that in a Colorado For All everyone can marry who they love.
The Governor’s conversation with LGBTQ Coloradans covered a range of topics, including a recently-issued Department of Defense memorandum intended to remove transgender members of the military. The state recently learned the order would include transgender National Guard members as well.
“Removing already trained, capable people from military service would make Colorado and our country less safe. If there are well-qualified and dedicated members of our national guard who were born a different gender, it’s frankly none of the government’s business. We value everyone who contributes and if someone is doing a great job keeping us safe, we want them in the Guard. Our Colorado National Guard members help our state respond to many situations, including natural disasters like floods and wildfires, and help keep us safe. The people who admirably step up to serve in our National Guard – who take time away from their families and jobs to serve their state and their nation – should not be used as a political football,” said Colorado Governor Jared Polis.
Governor Polis supported a ballot measure to remove discriminatory language regarding marriage equality from Colorado’s constitution this election and has signed various laws to protect access to services and care for LGBTQ people.
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