Press Release: Denver Summer Events Face Funding Challenges
As summer approaches in Denver, two major events that mark the season’s kickoff are grappling with significant funding shortages. The annual Juneteenth celebration, held in the city’s historic Five Points neighborhood for over 60 years, is particularly affected. Norman Harris, Executive Director of the JMF Corporation, which organizes the event, laments the loss of long-time corporate sponsors, stating, "Companies and organizations will put their money where their hearts are, and Juneteenth seems to have been deprioritized."
Traditionally a vibrant two-day festival celebrating the emancipation of Black slaves, this year’s event will be limited to just one day, moving from Saturday and Sunday to a single Sunday gathering. Harris emphasizes the event’s importance as a cultural "treasure chest" that serves as both a reunion and a summer kickoff.
However, Juneteenth is not alone in facing funding woes. The Center on Colfax, which organizes Denver Pride events in June, has also seen a dip in sponsorship. The organization stated that some returning sponsors have been unable to commit fully, citing rollbacks in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) budgets linked to recent national legislation. Denver Pride, unique in its free admission, relies significantly on contributions for its local LGBTQ+ community programs, which may now be at risk due to decreased funding.
Despite these challenges, both organizations are actively seeking financial support to deliver memorable events. Harris reassured the community, stating, "Oh, there’s definitely going to be a Juneteenth celebration. It’s a part of the core fabric of this city’s cultural experience."
Both events remain committed to providing important cultural celebrations in Denver, even as they navigate these funding challenges. Together, they continue to strive for vibrant summer festivities that reflect the city’s diverse heritage.
