Just A Symbol?”

Convening to Address Hate Symbols in Steamboat Springs

PRESS RELEASE

Steamboat Springs, CO - On Tuesday, November 18, from 5:00–6:30 p.m., the community is invited to attend “Just A Symbol?”, a powerful convening hosted by STAND at Steamboat Springs Middle School. In September 2023, our community witnessed five swastikas graffitied, drawn, and even burned into public spaces. Two years later, STAND and its partners have mobilized to learn from these incidents, engage in education, and support the work of disrupting discriminatory behavior.

At this convening, we will hear from local students, school leaders and regional partners about hate symbols and hate speech, the work already underway in our region, and how we can move forward together as a community. Special guest speakers will include Michael Dougherty, District Attorney of the 20th Judicial District (Boulder County), Jeremy Shaver, Senior Associate Regional Director of the Anti-Defamation League – Mountain States Region; local high school and middle school student voices; and Rabbi Kolby Morris-Dahary.

The event will provide a critical forum for learning, dialogue and action. Participants will gain better understanding of how hate symbols operate, how they impact individuals and communities, and how residents of Northwest Colorado can build more resilient, inclusive environments.

About STAND:

Founded to advance community awareness, education, and action against hate, the STAND initiative brings together students, educators, faith leaders, community organizations and civic partners to strengthen social justice, promote inclusive public life, and respond proactively to discrimination.

Event Details:

What: “Just A Symbol?” – STAND Convening

When: Tuesday, November 18 | 5:00–6:30 p.m.

Where: Steamboat Springs Middle School

Who: Community members, students, parents, educators, civic leaders

Why: To learn, reflect and act on the meaning of hate symbols, hear from regional experts and youth voices, and commit to continued work together for a safer, more inclusive community for all.

Register Here: https://tinyurl.com/standjustasymbol

Media and community representatives are invited. Please register in advance at the link above and contact Kate Nowak or Rabbi Kolby Morris-Dahary for further information.

Join us as we come together to reaffirm our commitment to a community where every person is respected, and where hateful symbols no longer hold power.