Each year as I prepare for the Colorado Health Symposium, I feel a renewed sense of purpose. But this year, that feeling is especially deep. From July 30 to August 1, we’ll gather once again in Keystone—but not as we’ve always done. We are meeting in a moment that demands more of us: more clarity, more courage and more community.
That’s why our 2025 theme, Fortifying the Movement in Volatile Times, is both a call to action and a promise to each other. We are living through extraordinary uncertainty—politically, socially, economically—and yet, I believe with all my heart that this is exactly the kind of moment where movements are born, strengthened, and reimagined. We’re not backing down. We’re doubling down.
We’ve designed this year’s experience to meet that moment—with sharper conversations, expanded learning, and new ways to connect. And we’re beginning right where we must: by fortifying our core.
Day 1: Fortify the Core—Truth, Power and Purpose
We’ll open with an unflinching look at the narratives shaping our democracy—and the roles each of us play in shaping them back. I’ll be joined on the mainstage by Joy-Ann Reid, one of our nation’s most insightful political analysts, for a conversation about truth, equity, and the media’s role in building (or breaking) public trust. Together, we’ll explore how movements and philanthropy must respond to rising disinformation and fractured discourse—not only by defending democratic values, but by boldly advancing justice in Colorado and beyond.
We’re also launching Poster Sessions—a new and interactive way to hear directly from leaders across the state who are solving problems in real time. And our Capacity-Building Workshops will dig into tools for advocacy and communications strategy that meet the urgency of now.
Day 2: Shift the Story—Narrative Power for a Just Colorado
Narratives don’t just reflect reality—they shape what’s possible. Day two focuses on reclaiming that power. Pulitzer Prize–winning journalist and Define American founder José Antonio Vargas will again take the stage to talk about the national landscape—and how immigrant and trans communities are resisting harmful narratives while building cultural and political power. He’ll then moderate a conversation with two Colorado leaders to reflect on how these issues are playing out on the ground and what solidarity looks like in action.
We’ll continue our Poster Sessions and dive deeper into workshops focused on narrative strategy, sustainability, and long-term policy impact. And yes—we’ll make space for celebration too. Because dancing and joy are part of the work and what helps sustain us.
Day 3: Sustain the Work as a Force for Change
Movements don’t endure on policy alone—they require soul. On our final day together, we turn toward what sustains us: radical love, courageous storytelling,and aligned action.
To close the Symposium, we are honored to welcome Valarie Kaur, visionary civil rights leader and founder of the Revolutionary Love Project. If you’ve heard Valarie speak before, you know the power she brings. Her message is urgent and timeless: that love—deep, brave, strategic love—is a force for lasting social change. She’ll call us to reimagine our work not just as resistance, but as a long labor toward justice, wholeness, and belonging.
In addition to this packed agenda, there will, of course, be time to breathe. To laugh. To move. And, to make space. Because we know that personal rejuvenation is as critical to this work as strategy and policy. The breathtaking landscape of Keystone awaits you, offering space for reflection, renewal, and maybe even a little spontaneous joy.
If you haven’t registered yet, now’s the time. Join us as we fortify this powerful movement for equity and justice—together.
See you in Keystone!