Colorado Matters

Governor Jared Police speaks publicly for the first time about the ongoing protests, this moment in time, and concerns related to the pandemic. Plus, a moment of understanding in Grand Junction. Then, answering Colorado Wonders questions about workplace safety concerns connected to COVID-19. Plus, what’s next for RTD. Also, student podcasters from Colorado.

Today, five black Coloradans from different walks of life share their experience in America right now: Elisabeth Epps of the Colorado Freedom Fund; State Representative Leslie Herod; Adrian Miller, head of the Colorado Council of Churches; Murphy Robinson, director of the Denver Department of Public Safety, which oversees the city’s police, sheriff & fire departments; and poet and speaker Theo Wilson. They reflect on the protests, both peaceful and destructive, that have followed the death of George Floyd. And what they hope comes next. At the end of the show, they share reading recommendations– books that have deepened their understanding of themselves and of this country.

Denver Mayor Michael Hancock on days of violence in Denver. Then, Natalia Marshall has a personal reason to join the protests. Also, the Democratic candidates for U.S. Senate take part in a racial justice forum. Plus, a Denver writer remembers an uncle who died of COVID-19 and the bigger picture it may illustrate.

“My face is on fire” — accounts from a volatile scene in Denver when demonstrators and police clashed, and the hope for what might happen next. Then, two doctors on what they consider when deciding to do everyday activities as COVID-19 restrictions lift. Finally, the inaugural edition of our new reading circle, Turn The Page With Colorado Matters.

The federal government is giving $72 billion to healthcare providers. A study shows the money’s being distributed unevenly. And, 20 years ago Colorado author James Van Pelt imagined a pandemic. His work feels prescient today. Then, high school athletes grapple with a season cut short.

As the summer tourism season begins, is Colorado putting out the welcome mat? Then, lawmakers start to narrow their focus at the state Capitol. Plus, how Colorado dairy farmers are adapting. Then, the power of writing for people in prison. And “At a Distance” asks about parties in the pandemic.

A Colorado Restaurant Association survey showed 3 percent of restaurants will close permanently. Then, lawmakers return to face a fiscal crisis. And, a decision on library reopenings could come soon, restoring important connections for people experiencing homelessness.

A Denver-area King Soopers employee remembers her colleague who died from COVID-19. Then, the supermarket’s response to the pandemic. Later, the state’s second-largest school district reveals its plans to reopen this fall. Plus, CPR’s politics podcast, “Purplish” talks virtual campaigning. Finally, a children’s book for the pandemic.