Colorado Matters

A new center at the University of Colorado Boulder puts the focus on African and African American Studies and creates a space to build community. On this Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. holiday, we re-share Chandra's visit just before the center opened in the fall. Plus, twin brothers at East High School use their voices to inspire others on the national speech and debate stage.

Issues that split the country, can also split families. Today, Colorado Matters features, "The Wedge," a new podcast distributed by CPR about bridging divides. Ryan Warner asks the co-creators, journalist Erica Anderson and Eve Daniel Pearlman with Spaceship Media, about when to engage in these discussions, and when not to.

Discussion of equity and racial justice in public education has become fraught – given the divisive state of politics these days. It’s at the heart of the new season of Systemic, CPR's podcast that uses audio diaries and interviews to document the lives of change makers. Also, how Colorado's Jewish community is helping migrants. And, a Coloradan nears a World Cup skiing record.

"The Mask" is a short story inspired by the life experiences of its author, Clayton Adams, of Aurora, whose own life ended much too soon. His parents, Spike Adams and Jamie Shimeall, talk with Ryan Warner about why they wanted it published. Later, as the state legislature looks to address drug addiction and the larger impact it has, we learn how to use Narcan when someone overdoses.

The new year offers a chance to reinvent our relationship with social media. We look at the changes at Twitter and emerging alternatives with Brian Keegan, a CU Boulder social scientist. Then, officers are training to figure out how someone’s driving is impaired. And, what’s up with state license plates? Also, a new platform for showcasing diverse artists.

A legislative preview as the first gavel falls. Then, Republicans are outnumbered at the Capitol. We speak with GOP leaders about policy and strategy. Plus, a new exhibit at the Clyfford Still Museum. And, a concert to honor recipients of the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Humanitarian Awards.

Heading into next week's legislative session, Democrats hold all three branches of Colorado's state government. But they insist collaboration with Republicans will help define decision-making. We ask Senate President Steve Fenberg and Speaker of the House Julie McCluskie about gun safety, wildfire response, education and state funding, and working with Gov. Jared Polis.

Colorado's law allows law enforcement or family members to ask a judge to keep someone from having guns, but an analysis by CPR public affairs reporter Andrew Kenney found its use depends on where the request is made. We speak with DU law professor Ian Farrell and Denver attorney Whitney Traylor about the law and the Club Q case. Also, we ask Dr. Emmy Betz about other tools to prevent gun violence.

Ethical wills, also known as legacy letters, are a way to share your outlook on life and preserve family history. Then, some of the migrants who recently arrived in Denver tell the stories of their journey and hope. Also, new state laws that took effect with the start of the new year. Plus, Colorado Wonders about Colorado Blvd. And one last hoorah for the holidays with Neyla Pekarek.

From the first woman to become U.S. Secretary of State, to a world-renowned, yet humble jazz musician, we lost some remarkable Coloradans in 2022. In a special "Colorado Matters in memoriam," we also remember a longtime owner of the Tattered Cover Book Store and an alpine adventurer.