Colorado Commission of Indian Affairs

04/14/2026

A great moment to celebrate leadership at Fort Lewis College.

While the Board of Trustees appointed Heather J. Shotton as president in 2025, last week marked her official investiture—an important milestone for the Durango campus community.

Proud to support Colorado’s higher education institutions and the leaders helping shape a bright future for students across our state.

04/06/2026

Congratulations to CCIA’s Executive Director, Kathryn Redhorse! We are so proud of you!

Congratulations, Kathryn Redhorse! Of Lakota and Navajo heritage, Kathryn began her career advocating for Denver youth through the Denver Public Schools Indian Education Program before becoming Executive Director of the Colorado Commission of Indian Affairs, where she serves as the official liaison between the State of Colorado, sovereign Tribal governments, and Indigenous communities statewide.

Through her leadership, thousands have gained a deeper understanding of Native cultures, Tribal sovereignty, and the legal complexities that shape the lives of Indigenous communities across Colorado.

The Melanie Grant Global Citizen Award celebrates leaders whose work fosters connection, understanding, and a more informed world. Kathryn’s career and life embody this same spirit, and we’re excited to honor her at this year’s Why We Travel gala on April 25, 2026.

Congratulations, Kathryn. Our community is better because of you!

03/31/2026

Bringing community together in meaningful ways. 🖤

Grateful for the moments we share, the connections we build, and the continued support for one another.

Join Denver Indian Center, Inc. for Pancakes & an Egg Hunt! 🥞🐣

📅 Saturday, April 4
⏰ 9–11 AM

Bring your baskets and enjoy a fun morning of community, food, and celebration. We hope to see you there!

03/27/2026

03/18/2026

The Awaxa'wi Round Dance is TOMORROW, March 19th, at Rose Andom Center! Doors open at 4:30 PM!

03/17/2026

Join the Southern Ute Indian Tribe, the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe, and the State of Colorado as we celebrate Ute Day at the Capitol!
- WHEN: March 20, 2026
- WHERE: Colorado State Capitol/History Colorado
- TIME: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM

The CCIA is thrilled to honor and celebrate the Southern Ute and Ute Mountain Ute Tribal Nations on an annual basis. We hope to see you there!

Graphic Credit: Summer Begay, Tribal Council Affairs Communication Specialist, Southern Ute Indian Tribe

02/27/2026

DPS NACE Powwow Pass Distribution night!

Weekend Powwow passes will be available to active Denver Public School NACE students.

When: Thursday, March 12th 2026 - 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Where: Native American Student Center Room 112 West High School

951 Elati St. Denver, 80204

To receive a pass your student must have a 506 form on file with NACE.
506 forms will be available. A student can be a child or grandchild of an enrolled tribal member. Please have that information for the form.
Limited number of passes available.

Photo description: Flyer with the information above, includes image of the 50th annual Denver March Powwow's billboard with 2025 Denver March Princess: Mash-ta Littlecook.

02/24/2026

A US government program encouraged thousands of Indian people to move to one of ten major cities, including Denver. The goal was assimilation and employment but the program often isolated Indians from their homelands and culture. The Urban Indian Relocation Program moved an estimated 160,000 American Indians.

Denver Indians formed a pan-Indian community that continues to grow. Groups provide educational and health support. People gather for cultural celebrations, religious events, sports programs, and political organizing.

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Excerpt from "Written on the Land Ute Voices, Ute History." Exhibition on view now at the History Colorado Center.

02/12/2026

Our February events for our elders!