In 1992, Colorado was dubbed “The Hate State” when voters — in a move that shocked many at the time — passed Amendment 2, which excluded gay Coloradans from protection from discrimination. Since that time, however, Colorado has come a long way, and now finds itself on the forefront of the legal and political battles that are reflecting the quickly-evolving national attitudes around civil equality in the 21st century.
On Monday, Denver County Clerk and Recorder Debra Johnson — along with Denver Mayor Michael Hancock — released a video in support of marriage equality for all Denver residents. Both the Mayor and the Clerk have been long-time vocal advocates, and have been in the spotlight in recent weeks as Colorado’s gay marriage debate moves through the courts.
The video, produced by the team at OnSight, was released along with a statement from the Clerk Johnson’s office, which reads in part:
Clerk and Recorder Debra Johnson recognizes the State’s obligation to uphold current law, but also believes in its obligation to enshrine fairness and equity for every Colorado couple.