Today on a special episode of Colorado Matters, a discussion hosted by the Vail Symposium about the deep roots of racism and inequality in the United States. CPR’s Jo Ann Allen talks with author and entrepreneur Wes Moore. The discussion was recorded Thursday, April 8, 2021, before this week’s protests in Minnesota.

Dr. Ken Lyn-Kew from National Jewish in Denver explains the halt of Johnson & Johnson vaccines and why it's still possible to catch coronavirus even if vaccinated. Then, the future of a railway connecting the Front Range. Plus, how muons are rewriting physics and our understanding of the universe. And, remembering Colorado Peaches coach Gail Klock.

When Colorado's head of corrections read a former inmate’s monologue, he said it hit him in the gut. The story recounted the challenges of being locked up. Then, the COVID outbreak at the El Paso County jail. And, a new children's book about how racism sticks with kids, even when it’s unintended. Also, Purplish explores the challenges of redistricting.

We explore the data and research into gun violence that inform gun policy with Dan Gorenstein and the podcast, “Tradeoffs.” Then, two teachers talk about how they’ll get through the school year after the pandemic’s extreme toll on their mental health. And, we remember Stephen Scott, a pioneer of the bowed piano.

Gov. Jared Polis joins us for our regular conversation. We ask about masks, vaccines, gun policy, transit, and more. Then, the Farley family remembers their patriarch, Mike, one of the first Coloradans to die of COVID-19. Plus, the economic revitalization of the area around Coors Field with continued construction and the return of pedicabs.

Colorado’s transit systems could get a major upgrade in coming years. Then, researchers at Colorado State University are working on vaccines to fight future pandemics. Plus, an effort to teach "media literacy" in Colorado schools. Plus, Denver sculptor Ed Dwight is honored with a namesake asteroid. And Fort Collins poet Jodie Hollander's outdoor inspiration.

Moving the All-Star game to Denver isn’t just an economic boost for a state coming out of the pandemic — it’s also a statement on the politics of voting. Then the Purplish team discusses bills currently before the General Assembly that are flying under the radar. Plus, the climate impact of growing cannabis indoors.

Delays with the 2020 Census are having a domino effect on Colorado's timeline to redistrict. Then, a nurse who volunteers to help people stay safe from COVID-19. Also, how the pandemic manifests itself in the mental health of students. Plus, the new City Cast Denver podcast debuts, and the remarkable comeback story of Rockies pitcher Daniel Bard.