Spirituals are rooted in a history of pain and hope. Today, Colorado Matters presents a "Journey to Freedom" with the Spirituals Project Choir based at the University of Denver's Lamont School of Music. Our colleagues at CPR Classical spent the last year sharing spirituals chosen by the choir's director, M. Roger Holland II. The collaboration culminated in a special event at DU’s Newman Center.

CU Regent and entrepreneur Heidi Ganahl believes her experience as a business owner, in addition to being the only Republican in statewide office, makes her the best candidate to run against incumbent Gov. Jared Polis. Then, Black Coloradans discuss what it means to recognize Juneteenth as a holiday.

Whether it’s crime or the cost of living, Republican gubernatorial candidate Greg Lopez sees himself as a convener on issues like gun laws, housing and climate change. But, he’s short on specifics. Lopez traces some of what ails the state to pandemic shutdowns, which he thinks destroyed livelihoods while trying to save lives. Lopez is running against CU regent Heidi Ganahl in the GOP Primary. Also, Juneteenth approaches and the origins of an Avs victory song.

Ten years ago today, President Obama created the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, or DACA. It allows young people brought to the US unlawfully as children to attend college or work legally. About 18,000 Coloradans have taken Obama up on that offer. We'll hear some of their stories today. We'll also talk with Marissa Molina, herself a DACA recipient, who advocates for immigration reform.

"El Ultimo Hilo" is an international choral collaboration between Colorado's Kantorei and singers in Guatemala, and both companies have learned lessons about music and history. Plus, finding energy efficiency without making homes even more expensive.

The first all-Black team of climbers reached the summit of Mt. Everest this spring. We speak with two of the Coloradans who were part of the expedition. Then, using genetic testing to improve medical treatments. And, rethinking housing in Greeley.

Sandy Phillips lost her daughter nearly ten years ago in the Aurora movie theater shootings. Now she and her husband travel the country, helping survivors of other mass shootings cope. Then, working to preserve the language of the Ute Mountain Utes. And, "Rainbows and Revolutions" at History Colorado.

The world first heard John Denver's "Rocky Mountain High" 50 years ago. It served as something of a musical magnet, attracting people to Colorado. Lawmakers here declared it the state's second official song in 2007. Today, we reflect on Denver's legacy -- musically and environmentally.