On Aug. 5 and 6, Colorado Ceasefire Outreach and other nonprofit organizations hosted two events with more than 100 youth, adults, and elders of the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe to share their experiences, concerns, and solutions related to gun violence on their reservation. Ute Mountain Ute Reservation sits within Montezuma and La Plata counties, which have some of the highest rates of gun violence in the state. This event recognizes that no single generation holds all the answers, and that lasting change comes from listening to and learning from one another.
Both days saw a safe, respectful environment where participants explored how gun violence shows up in their neighborhoods, schools, workplaces, and homes. Youth brought fresh perspectives, creativity, and energy for advocacy. Adults share lived experiences and the challenges of navigating policies, work, and family safety. Elders contribute historical insight, resilience, and a long view of community transformation.
Through facilitated conversations, storytelling, and collaborative workshops, participants deepened their understanding of the problem but also identified concrete actions, whether advocating for policy change, building community-based safety initiatives, or supporting survivors. The series emphasizes unity, healing, and the power of collective action. Colorado Ceasefire is proud to support this effort and will share more updates as progress continues.
