Statement of Vision
Lafayette’s panoramic view of the Rocky Mountains inspires our view into the future. We value our heritage, our unique neighborhoods, a vibrant economy and active lifestyles. We envision a future that mixes small-town livability with balanced growth and superior city services.
Statement of Values
We foresee a strong economy that is diverse and sustainable, attracts innovators, encourages a balance of big and small businesses, and meets the community’s needs.
We intend to shape the future through strengthening our voice on environmental stewardship and social issues, taking an active role in sustainability and strategically planned development, and facilitating leadership development and fresh thinking.
We strive to be a connected community that encourages cooperative relationships and inclusivity, expects accessibility and communication, nurtures resiliency, appreciates multiculturalism, and humanizes physical and social interactions within the City.
We support placemaking endeavors that stimulate historic preservation and the arts, encourage open space stewardship and networking of neighborhoods, and promote comprehensive planning and livability.
October 21, 2019
AGENDA
5:30 PM CITY COUNCIL WORKSHOP
I. OPENING OF REGULARLY SCHEDULED MEETING Call to Order Pledge of Allegiance (led by Cub Scout Pack 79) Roll Call
II. CUB SCOUT PACK 79 / LANDFILL WASTE DIVERSION PROJECT (10 min)
III. BOULDER VALLEY SCHOOL DISTRICT SUPERINTENDENT DR. ROB ANDERSON (45 min) A. New District Organizational Plan / Effects on Lafayette Schools B. Anti-Discrimination/Harassment Policies Concerning Protected Groups C. School-Based Mental Health Services D. Vaping Epidemic / Outreach to Students
IV. PUBLIC ROAD STRATEGIC CORRIDOR FINDINGS (45 min)
V. HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION ANNUAL REPORT (30 min)
VI. ADJOURN
To: Fritz Sprague, City Administrator From: Susan Koster, City Clerk Date: October 21, 2019 Subject: Cub Scout Pack 79 Presentation
Cub Scout Pack 79 is a group of seven 10-year-old boys who are working toward community building as their final requirement before moving on to Boy Scouts. They will share with Council a project they have undertaken to divert waste from the landfill.
They will be accompanied by Den Leader Kathy Kohler and will lead the Pledge of Allegiance.
1290 S. Public Road Lafayette, Colorado 80026 303-665-5588 cityoflafayette.com
STAFF REPORT
To: Fritz Sprague, City Administrator From: Jeff Arthur, Public Works Director Joliette Woodson, Transportation Engineer
Date: October 21, 2019 Subject: Public Road Strategic Corridor Plan Update / Fox Tuttle Hernandez Transportation Group, LLC presentation
Background: At the Council workshops of August 21, 2018, and October 16, 2018, Fox Tuttle Hernandez Transportation Group (FTH) presented the findings of the Public Road Corridor Plan along with the conclusions from the Friends of Public Road citizen’s workgroup.
In January 2019, the three traffic signals in the corridor at Simpson Street, Emma Street, and Spaulding Street were removed and replaced with all-way stops. Additional pedestrian infrastructure enhancements were also installed. In September 2019, the entire corridor from Baseline Road to So. Boulder Road was repaved and restriped.
FTH has completed before and after construction data analysis. The Public Road Corridor Plan Update, will present FTH’s findings, including reduction in number of crashes, changes in travel times, and traffic queuing.
Attachments: Public Road Corridor Plan Traffic Summary Memorandum Public Road Corridor Plan Update - Presentation
October 2019 City Council Work Session Update
Public Road is an inviting place that is safe and accessible to everyone. Update the infrastructure to meet the changing needs in downtown. Learn more @ https://mutcd.fhwa.dot.gov/htm/2009/part4/part4c.htm Maintain a family-friendly and business supportive walking environment. 50 45 40 36 crashes/year average 35 30 25 20 Reported Crashes/ Year Reported 15 10 5 0 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017
Data source: City of Lafayette police reports ¡ One reported crash every 10 days on Public road
¡ 38 crashes in 2017 § 5 involved person walking § 1 involved person on bicycle § 5 collisions involved RTD bus
¡ 10 crashes involved injuries
¡ Broadside/rear-end common
¡ No distinct pattern or data driven corrective measure at any one intersection Data source: City of Lafayette police reports
¡ Door to Door drop in visits with businesses ¡ Notify community of working group applications
¡Únete a nosotros!
Plan del Corredor Estratégico de la Carretera Pública Presentación del recorrido a pie 3 de febrero 2: 00-3: 30 p.m. Plaza del Festival
Aplicar para estar en el grupo de trabajo ciudadano / empresarial
The purpose of this plan is to El propósito de este plan es - APPLY to participate in the citizen/business ¡SOLICITE participar en el grupo de trabajo working group by February 11! ciudadano / comercial antes del 11 de febrero! LEARN MORE: APRENDE MÁS: www.cityo!afayette.com/PublicRoadPlan www.cityo!afayette.com/PublicRoadPlan ¡ 28 applications submitted
¡ 17 selected § 53% men § 47% women § 71% old town business/resident § 24% design background § 24% are former or current city board members § 47% are new to city projects/process
Bike racks Large share the lane Harrison/Roosevelt Stop signs Traffic circles Traffic signals markings neighborhood bikeway
Art platforms Parklets Ped light posts with Raised intersections Concrete ramps Painted crosswalks banners
Colored concrete Bulbouts Seasonal flower boxes Street trees History tour plaque crosswalks
s
Uber/Lyft designated Trolley bus service town circulator shuttles spaces
Three corridor options with varying intersection control based on FPR-WG input: Traffic signals Stop signs Rectangular Rapid Flash Beacons (RRFB) Traffic circles Roundabouts Community meeting § July 2018 at Lafayette Library § 23 people provided comments § 35 unique written comments
Online input survey § July 28th to August 10th § 43 people provided comments § 57 unique written comments
§ Additional public notification and outreach
§ Prepared construction drawings for corridor
§ Collected additional traffic data
§ Notified community of signal deactivation
§ Deactivated traffic signals (per MUTCD) § 18,500 views of project videos in English*
§ 2,200 views of project video in Spanish*
*Minimum 3 seconds view § Emma signals removed and left turns added
Three corridor options with varying intersection control based§ Simpsonon FPR-WG input: Traffictraffic signals Stopsignals signs Rectangularand left Rapid Flash Beacons (RRFB) Trafficturns circles Roundaboutsremoved Three corridor options with varying intersection control based on FPR-WG input: Traffic signals Stop signs Reviewed draft plans: Rectangular Rapid Flash Beacons (RRFB) Bumpouts Traffic circles Walk and Wheel Corrals Roundabouts New crosswalks Driveway curb cuts Three corridor options with varying intersection control based on FPR-WG input: Traffic signals Stop signs Rectangular Rapid Flash Beacons (RRFB) Traffic circles Roundabouts
North of Spaulding
South of Spaulding
§ § § with new with to 24’ 36’ from crossing Narrow buses* Tight for lanes turn left Remove bulbouts *Similar to RTD Dash route that make turn in downtown Louisville downtown in turn make that route Dash RTD to *Similar
24’ crossings
24’ crossings
Narrow southbound lane with 3 way stop should reduce bypassing Spaulding is the ”check valve” now
20,000 daily Baesline SH7 vehicles
35,000 10,000 daily daily vehicles vehicles Public Road 20,000 daily South Boulder Road vehicles 12,000 66,000 weekly vehicles
10,000 9,557 9,618 9,344 9,356 9,219 8,911
8,000 7,061
6,000
4,000 DAILY TRAFFIC (24 HOURS)
2,000
0 1 Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday Geneseo January September Total Daily 2019 2019 Traffic Traffic Traffic Change Simpson (signals) (all way stops)
Roosevelt 409 494 +85 Cannon Roosevelt Public Harrison Public 9,112 8,465 -647 Emma
Spaulding Harrison 362 432 +70 January 2019 to September 2019
+4 -67 +19
+2 -8 +50 Emma Emma +10 +38 +10
+28 -1 +2 87 more vehicles January 2019 to September 2019
+12 -86 +10
+17 +21 +24 Emma Emma +8 +3 +6
+1 -117 -9 110 fewer vehicles (LOS = C) January 2019 to September 2019
-52 -8
+2 Spaulding -15
+1 -25 97 fewer vehicles January 2019 to September 2019
-100 0
-10 Spaulding +16
-153 -15 262 fewer vehicles (LOS C) 50 travel time runs ▪ January 2019 “before” ▪ May 2019 “after” ▪ September 2019 “after” ▪ SBR to Baseline (and return) ▪ Weekday ▪ AM peak hour ▪ PM peak hour ▪ Mid-day off peak Baseline
January September Total Daily 2019 2019 Traffic Traffic Traffic (all way stops) Change (signals)
AM Peak +20 3:43 4:03 Hour seconds Public + 1 minute PM Peak 3:31 4:36 Hour and 5 seconds
SBR Baseline
January September Total Daily 2019 2019 Traffic Traffic Traffic (all way stops) Change (signals)
AM Peak +46 3:44 4:30 Hour seconds Public PM Peak + 21 5:10 5:31 Hour seconds
SBR ▪ Travel time is same or improved during the other 22 hours of the day
▪ Some block/segments have shorter travel times during peak conditions
▪ Most blocks/segments have less than 11 seconds of increased travel time during peak conditions
▪ SBR to Spaulding northbound has increased by 1:23 seconds from 4:30PM to 6:00 PM ▪ 12 -15 vehicles queuing back to ▪ 90 to 120 seconds of delay Harrison from 7:50 AM to 8:10 AM to access Public Road ▪ 4-8 side by side vehicles queuing ▪ 10 to 45 seconds of delay to from 7:50 AM to 8:10 AM access Public Road Baseline SBR Public City City Center Spaulding Cleveland Simpson Geneseo Kimbark Waneka Chester Cannon TOTAL Emma 2017 (full year) (full 2017 31 4 0 2 1 1 1 5 5 5 7 2019 (Jan 2019 10 4 0 0 0 0 2 1 1 1 1 - Aug) 2019 forecast 2019 17 6 2 0 0 0 0 2 2 2 3 2017 to 2019 to 2017 - +2 +1 ------14 0 4 2 1 1 1 5 3 ▪ 50% reduction in total crashes (25% reduction in injury crashes) ▪ Traffic signals are still not warranted (even with new Emma housing) ▪ LOS is still acceptable in peak conditions (B to C range) ▪ Leave in all way stops at Chester and Cannon
MEMORANDUM
To: Debbie Wilmot, City of Lafayette Roger Caruso, City of Lafayette
From: Bill Fox
Date: October 10, 2019
Project: Public Road Corridor Project
Subject: Summary of “Before” and “After” Traffic Data
This memorandum summarizes the comparison of “before” traffic data collected along Public Road in January 2019, prior to the removal of the three traffic signals in the corridor, and “after” traffic data collected in September 2019, after the traffic control changes and streetscape improvements had been completed. Traffic data compared includes:
Daily traffic counts taken on Public Road and the parallel corridors of Roosevelt Avenue and Harrison Avenue. The comparison of these counts on all three roadways indicate whether there has been a shift of traffic between parallel corridors.
Traffic crashes and safety in the corridor, comparing crashes from the year 2017 and crashes from the first eight months of 2019 (the 2019 crash totals have been inflated by 50% to represent 12 months of crash data when comparing to a full year in 2017).
Peak hour counts (AM, midday school peak, and PM peak hours) at the following intersections in the corridor (with the change in traffic control listed where applicable):
‐ Geneseo Street ‐ Simpson Street (traffic signal removed and replaced by All‐Way Stops) ‐ Cleveland Street ‐ Cannon Street ‐ Chester Street ‐ Emma Street (traffic signal removed and replaced by All‐Way Stops) ‐ Spaulding Street (traffic signal removed and replaced by All‐Way Stops)
Travel time in the corridor
P.O. BOX 19768, BOULDER, COLORADO 80308‐2768 PHONE: 303.652.3571 | WWW.FTHTRANSGROUP.COM
Public Road Corridor – Summary of “Before” and “After” Traffic Data October 10, 2019 Page 2
“Before” and “After” traffic data comparison (by topic):
Daily Traffic Counts Daily traffic counts (an average of counts from three consecutive weekdays) were compared on Public Road, Roosevelt Avenue and Harrison Avenue at a location in the block north of Emma on all three corridors. The results are illustrated on the attached Figure 1. It can be seen that: o The sum of all three streets is between 9,000 and 10,000 vehicles per day, with 90% or more of the traffic on Public Road. There was a small (500 vehicles per day) reduction in total traffic moving north/south through this part of Lafayette after the changes in the corridor were implemented. It is likely that any reduction in north/south traffic has shifted to the US 287 corridor. o There was a small increase (70 to 85 vehicles per day) on the two roadways that parallel Public Road. These small increases are well within the capacity of these low volume residential streets. o In summary, there was no significant shift in daily traffic due to the change in traffic control along Public Road.
Peak Hour Traffic Counts and Intersection Operation Peak hour traffic count data indicates that: o AM and mid‐day peak hour traffic was similar in the “before” and “after” conditions with a slight decrease (typically 10% or less) in north/south through traffic in the “after” condition. o PM peak hour north/south through traffic was typically reduced by approximately 20% on Public Road. The change was most noticeable in the south end of the corridor where the all‐way stop at Spaulding creates some noticeable delay in northbound travel. o The PM peak hour intersection level of service (LOS) was calculated at the three intersections where traffic signals were removed. The results are: ‐ Simpson Street LOS B overall, with all approaches in the LOS A/B range ‐ Emma Street LOS C overall, with all approaches in the LOS B/C range ‐ Spaulding Street LOS C overall, with northbound approach at LOS D and the other approaches in the LOS B/C range. These PM peak hour LOS results indicate that the corridor traffic is functioning well with all‐way stop control rather than signal control. The increased delay for northbound traffic in the PM peak at Spaulding typically does not last more than 30 minutes and is offset by more efficient travel in the corridor for the rest of the day and increased pedestrian safety and comfort in the corridor.
Public Road Corridor – Summary of “Before” and “After” Traffic Data October 10, 2019 Page 3
Crash Data Traffic crash data from the first 8 months of 2019 were inflated to represent a full year of crash data for comparison to the “before” condition in 2017. The results of this “one year” comparison are illustrated in the attached tabulation. It can be seen that: o The total number of intersection crashes in the corridor was reduced by 50% (from 31 down to 15 crashes per year). o The number of injury crashes was reduced by 25% (from 8 to 6 crashes per year). o The number of crashes involving pedestrians or bicyclists with cars was reduced by 33% (from 6 to 4.5). o The number of Broadside and Approach/Turn crashes was reduced by 63% (from 8 to 3 crashes per year). This is significant since these types of car/car crashes are most likely to cause injury. o Crashes were reduced at all three of the intersections where traffic control type was modified (formerly signalized and now all‐way stops), including the Emma Street intersection that had 5 crashes in 2017 and none in 2019.
Travel Time A total of 50 travel time runs were conducted in 2019 on Public Road. The travel time runs were conducted in January 2019 “before” the traffic signals in the corridor were removed. Boulder Valley Schools were in session when the January 2019 travel times were collected. The “after” travel time runs were conducted in May and September 2019 when the traffic signals had been replaced with all way stops. Travel time runs were conducted in the northbound and southbound directions during peak and off‐peak periods. All travel times runs were conducted on weekdays.
The video data collected during the travel time runs was summarized by total travel time between Baseline Road and South Boulder Road or vice versa. Individual segment travel times were also analyzed to determine changes between key segments in the corridor. A full report of the data and the results is available in the FPRWG October 2019 presentation. A summary of the key findings is listed below: o Most segments in the corridor have less than 11 seconds of increased travel time during AM and PM peak hour travel conditions. o Some segments in the corridor have shorter “after” travel times during AM and PM peak hour travel conditions than “before”. o Northbound travel time between South Boulder Road and Spaulding Street had the largest increase. It increased by 1 minute and 23 seconds from 4:30PM to 6:00 PM.
Attachment: Figure 1 – Daily Traffic Comparison Tabulation of Intersection Collisions FPRWG October 2019 presentation
FOX Project # T r a n TUTTLE s p o DAILY TRAFFIC COMPARISON -BEFOREANDAFTER REMOVALOFTRAFFIC SIGNALS r t 18001 a HERNANDEZ t i o n G Original Scale r o u p NTS Date 10/3/19
SUM OF ALL THREE CORRIDORS
Drawn by
KEY: DAILY TRAFFIC DAILY KEY:
JANUARY 2019 "BEFORE" 2019 JANUARY SEPTEMBER 2019 "AFTER" "AFTER" 2019 SEPTEMBER PUBLIC ROAD BEFORE/AFTERSTUDY AMZ Figure # 1 Intersection Collisions on Public Road During Year 2017 (12 months) and 2019 (8 months) and 2019 (12 month estimate)
Geneseo Simpson Cleveland Kimbark Spaulding Waneka City Center Collision Type/Intersection Street Street Street Cannon Street Chester Street Emma Street Street Street Parkway Circle
Side Street Signal / All Side Street Signal / All Side Street Signal / All Side Street Traffic Control: Stop Way Stop Stop All‐Way Stop All‐Way Stop Way Stop Stop Way Stop Stop Signal Total: Rear‐End, main street 1 1.5 111 21 1.5 2 1 1.5 7 3 4.5 Rear‐End side street 2 2 0 0 Run Off the Road/Fixed Object 1 1 1 1.5 2 1 1.5 Broadside 1 2 1 1.5 1111 1 1.5 7 2 3 Approach‐Turn 1 1 0 0 Sideswipe ‐ parked cars 1 1 2 4 0 0 Sideswipe ‐ intersection 1 1.5 1 1 2 1 1.5 Pedestrian / Car 1 1 1 2 1 1.5 5 1 1.5 Bicycle / Car 1 1 1.5 1 1.5 1 2 3 Total: 2 1 1.5 5 1 1.5 0 1 1.5 4 0 1 0 5 0 1 0 5 2 3 1 1 1.5 7 4 6 31 10 15
Collisions involving injuries: 1 1 1 1.5 112 1 1.5 0 1 1.5 2 1 1.5 8 4 6 Collisions involving buses: 1 3 0 4 0 0 Human Rights Commission 2019 Annual Report and Recommendations
October 21, 2019
Abby Boyd, Elizabeth Lichtenstein, Emma Piller, Denice Walker City of Lafayette Human Rights Commission Members History Guides our Future RECOMMENDATION:
HRC recommends Lafayette City Council endorse the naming of the swimming pool at the Bob Burger Recreation Center the Rose Lueras Swimming Pool Additional Accomplishments
| LQBTQ open house with Out Boulder | Recommendation for religious and cultural sensitivity scheduling/calendar | Partner LYAC Council Candidate Forum Challenges and Aspirations
| Recruitment | Direction from council | Collaboration with Boards and Commissions | Continue to amplify voices in our community El legado de Latinos de Lafayette
Frank Archuleta
Leonard and Rosabelle Lueras
Eleanor Montour with photo of Alecia Sanchez Santiago and Rose Lueras The Legacy of Latinos of Lafayette
Latino Legacy in Lafayette A history of civil rights struggle
Santiago and Rose (Lavato) Lueras
Historical Background Prior to Anglo-American Settlement, Colorado was heavily explored by parties affiliated with the Catholic Church of Old Mexico. Atanasio Dominguez and Silvestre Velez de Escalante explored areas lying within the borders of modern- day Arizona, New Mexico, and Colorado. This expansive territory would be claimed by Mexico after winning the war for independence against Spain in 1821.1 This same territory would later fall under ownership of the United States at the end of the Mexican-American War (1846). The Arapaho Tribe made residence in the Lafayette area every winter. North of town, a large grove of Cottonwood trees offered shelter from the Colorado winters. Treaty of Hidalgo The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, officially titled the Treaty of Peace, Friendship, Limits and Settlement between the United States of America and the Mexican Republic, is the peace treaty signed on February 2, 1848, between the United States and Mexico that ended the Mexican–American War (1846–1848). The treaty went into effect on July 4, 1848. Latinos living in the northern part of the Republic of Mexico were living on Mexican land that was sold to the United States of America.2 In that treaty, those people were made to be US Citizens. This included California, Nevada, Utah, Arizona, New Mexico, Texas and most of Colorado. Sand Creek Massacre After months of tensions between pioneers and indigenous people, the Native Americans were offered a peaceful solution. A large group of people from Cheyenne and Arapaho tribes were camped at Sand Creek where they had been advised to go for their safety. The Cheyenne Chief Black Kettle flew an American flag and white flag above his tent. U.S. Army Colonel John Chivington and 675 members of the Colorado U.S. Volunteer Calvary gathered from all across the state. On November 29, 1864, they attacked the peacefully gathered group of Native Americans and killed over 230 women, children, and men who were predominately elders. Hundreds more were wounded and mutilated. 3 Cavalry members from the Boulder County area (3rd Regiment, D Company) area were under the direction of Captain David H. Nichols, and included Granville J. Berkeley, Morse H. Coffin, Onsville C. Coffin, Williams H. Dickens, Lewis H. Dickson, Henry C. Foster, and George D. Harmon.4 On December 3, 2014, Colorado Governor John Hickenlooper formally apologized to descendants of Sand Creek massacre victims gathered in Denver to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the event. Hickenlooper stated: We should not be afraid to criticize and condemn that which is inexcusable. ... On behalf of the State of Colorado, I want to apologize. We will not run from this history.5 White Settlers DeLafayette and Mary (Foote) Miller came to Colorado in 1863, as pioneers from Iowa. They settled in Boulder County, bringing the first thresher to the area. Miller was hired to do threshing for various farms including Morse H. Coffin, near Lyons, CO. In 1888, Mary Miller founded the town of Lafayette, named after her late husband DeLafayette, who died of liver cirrhosis in 1878. Once the city was founded, she sought to develop Lafayette’s wealth by creating the city’s first bank. It is believed that she was the country’s first female bank president.6 Known as the Mother of Lafayette, she was committed to bringing the community together through social clubs, community organizations, and religious institutions.7 The Millers had 6 children; Frank and Amelia died as children. Surviving children were George, James, Thomas, and Charles. George was a farmer. Thomas was the town’s first Mayor and died in a mining accident. Other family connections include, Lafayette’s younger sister Sarah was married to George Church (of the Church Ranch area), James Foote, Mary’s brother, settled the Rock Creek area with Dr. James Dow and Thomas Lindsey. Mary’s uncle David Kerr settled the land now known as the Mayhoffer Farm, southwest of Lafayette. Lafayette’s younger sister Alfaretta married Boulder lawyer Junius Berkely. Junius Berkley was son of Granville Berkley, a Boulder judge and founder of the Colorado Democratic Party. Ku Klux Klan in Lafayette The Klan was active across the country in the early 1900, and Lafayette is no exception. There are documented reports of 1000 members from around the region meeting and burning crosses in Lafayette. The local clan reportedly had 100-200 members including city council, the mayor, school board members, teachers, firemen, and church pastors.8 William Lafayette (Fey) Miller (grandson) of Mary and Lafayette Miller was a prominent member of the Klan and known to lead KKK marches, on his white horse.9 The Lafayette Fire Department invited Ben Stapleton, Colorado Klan leader, as a guest speaker for a celebration where 3000 gathered in the town park, later the site of the Lafayette Swimming Pool.10 While the Klan was said to die out in 1926, members of the Klan remained in the community in their roles as leaders. The Klan was seen publicly, again in 1934 when hundreds of white robed men marched from the site of the Lafayette Swimming Pool, south on Public Road and east on Geneseo.11 The Klan burned crosses at various times across the community into the 1930s. Rose Lueras’s story Santiago and Rose (Lovato) Lueras lived at 304 E. Chester Street in Lafayette. Santiago was a US Citizen who served in World War I with the U.S. Army and became a coal miner upon his return home.12 They had two children, Leonard born in 1920, and Rosabelle born in 1922. Leonard died at the age of 10, from whooping cough. Lafayette Swimming Pool Construction for the Lafayette swimming pool began in 1933. It was modeled after Longmont’s Sunset Municipal Pool. City funds to build the pool came up short and many people in town donated money or supplies. The Lueras family donated 10 sacks of cement.13 The swimming pool opened on July 31, 1934. The Lueras family and other families of Hispanic, Latino, and Mexican heritage were denied pool entrance after the sign stating “white trade only” was posted, and the gate was staffed by members of the Lafayette Fire Department. In a move to privatize the pool, built with public CWA funds, city funds and citizen contributions, the Lafayette City Council had signed the pool over to the (private) Lafayette Volunteer Fire Department.14 Civil Rights on Trial Rose Lueras led the discrimination lawsuit against the City of Lafayette after she and her daughter, Rosabelle, were denied entrance to the pool. Twenty-five other families joined Rose Lueras’s suit to fight for their 14th Amendment rights. Families who were part of the lawsuit included D.H. Lueras, D.C. Lueras, Santiago Lueras, Tony Sinsernos, L.B. Rodriquez, Mrs. Valdez, Cruz Gallegos, Jose Trujillo, Sam Roybal, Woberto Chavez, Abe Abeyeta, David Salazar, Louis Manzanares, Joe Manzanares, Mr. Gillen, Bill Manzanares, Louis Chavez, Jose Tafoya, Ramon Pena, Levi Riviera, Garfield Borrego, Don Tafoya, Jose Medrano, Pablo Rivera, and Eliseo Fernandez.15 A cross was burned on Rose and Santiago’s lawn at 304 E. Chester Street.16 Rose and Rosabelle left Lafayette to stay in California, while awaiting the trial. They left, presumably, because of the hostile community.17 While waiting for the case to go to court, Rose was struck and killed by a car as she crossed the street in Santa Monica near the home where they were living, in June of 1935.18 Her daughter Rosabelle was a witness to her mother’s death.19 Rosabelle returned home to live with her father Santiago on Chester Street.
The defense attorneys motioned to dismiss the case against the city, as the lead plaintiff had died. At the age of 13, Rosabelle testified on behalf of her deceased mother, Rose. There was extensive testimony, including that of volunteer firemen, and Lafayette City Councilmen as well as members of the Latino community. The Judge was Claude C. Coffin. The following testimony is excerpted from the trial transcript.20
TESTIMONY OF ROSABELL LUERAS 21 Rosabell Lueras, called as a witness by plaintiffs, testified. That she is the daughter of Rose Lueras, former plaintiff in this case; that she was present with her mother the third day of the opening of the pool. “Q. (By Mr. Prentice) did you and your mother make any demand there on anyone for permission to swim in that pool? A. Yes, sir. Objection by Mr. Hutchinson: “We object, if the Court please, unless he ties it to these six plaintiffs.” Overruled by the Court. The witness testified that her mother talked to Zeke Baldick, who was at the gate; that her mother asked him where the gate was to pay admission’ that he, Zeke Baldick, answered, “I’m sorry, but I can’t let you in. You can go in to watch.” That her mother said, “Well why can’t we go in?”; that he said, “We don’t allow the Spanish-American or Mexicans to go in to swim.” That her mother asked that she, the daughter, be permitted to swim there; that she was refused. That at the time of the refusal there were people swimming in the pool. That she made no second demand to swim. Cross-Examination by Mr. Hutchinson Witness testified that Zeke Baldick was the man her mother asked to allow her to swim; that she did not know what day of the week it was. That she did not know whether the other people around the gate were members of the Fire Department. That Clyde Reed was there. That her mother did not expect to go in to swim and that she did not ask for herself, but that she asked for her, the witness.
TESTIMONY OF JOE MATHIAS 22 Joe Mathias, called as a witness by the plaintiffs, testified: That he was a City Councilman during July and August of the year 1934, and a member of the Board of Trustees. That the Mayor suggested the pool be leased to the Firemen. That a motion was made to this effect at a Board meeting by Mr. Lewis and seconded by Joe Mathias “Q. (by Mr. Prentice:) Was there any discussion of any reason for leasing it to the firemen at that time? A. Yes it was to keep all disputes down. “Q. What? A. To keep all the troubles down. “Q. What troubles? A. Well, in respect to the Mexican people, I guess, as I could get it “Q. Was there anything said about doing that for the purpose of keeping the Mexicans from using the pool? A. Yes, there was. “Q. Who said that? A. Well, all of us said it. Not all, but three of four of us there. “Q. The Mayor among them? A. Yes, sir. “Q. And other members of the Council? A. Yes, sir...... That the witness Joe Mathias further testified that he saw the sign “Firemen’s Pool. We reserve all right to reject any or all persons without cause. White trade only. Lafayette Fire Department”; that he did not protest against the same. That a committee to take charge of the swimming pool was named a meeting of the Firemen’s Association prior to the opening of the pool consisting of, among other, Tommy Chapman, Jack Maxwell, George Schneider and Zeke Baldick. That no one protested to him about the use of the pool.
The courts ruled against the Latino families. The attorney for the plaintiffs appealed. The lawsuit reached the Colorado Supreme Court, presided by Chief Justices Burke, Bakke, and Hillard. The upper court agreed that no violation of the 14th amendment was made and the ruling in favor of the defendants was upheld on March 8, 1937. The pool never reopened and was filled with dirt. The pool site is the current site of the swimming pool at the Bob L. Burger Recreation Center. Rosabelle married Leo Vargas and moved to Fort Lupton where they raised their son Leonard, named after her brother. Rosabelle died in 1993. Santiago, Rose, their son Leonard, and Rosabelle are laid to rest in the Lafayette Cemetery. The cemetery lies adjacent to the original location of the pool – now occupied by the Bob L. Burger Recreation Center CITATIONS 1 Benson, Nettie Lee. Diputación provincial y el federalismo mexicano. Mexico City: El Colegio de México, 1952, 1980. Revised English edition: The Provincial Deputation in Mexico: Precursor of the Mexican Federal State. Austin: University of Texas Press, 1992. 2 Wikipedia contributors. (2019, July 2). Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo. In Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Treaty_of_Guadalupe_Hidalgo&oldid=904529046 (August 16, 2019). 3 Wikipedia contributors. (2019, August 4). Sand Creek massacre. In Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. (https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Sand_Creek_massacre&oldid=909247986 August 16, 2019).
4 Campbell, Jeff C. “3rd Regiment Cavalry, Colorado Volunteers.” Sand Creek Massacre Background Booklet, (Eads, CO. Jeff C. Campbell)), 94.
5 Hernandez, Elizabeth. “Gov. Hickenlooper apologizes to descendants of Sand Creek Massacre,” Denver Post, December 3, 2014.
6 Hutchinson, James D. “Lafayette, Colorado, Treeless Plain to Thriving City: Centennial History, 1889-1989”. Raleigh, NC, Curtis Media, 1989. 93.
7 Hutchinson, 288.
8 Hutchinson, 25.
9 Conarroe, Doug. “80026, An illustrated history of Lafayette, Colo. 1829-1929.”, Lafayette, CO, 6000 Bees, LLC, Morrell Printing. 264.
10 Hutchinson, 93.
11 Calvo, Louie. Personal interview by Frank Archuleta. 2019.
12 Lueras, Santiago. Application and Employment Record. Form 1934. June 20, 1919.
13 White, George. “Workers unearth sad chapter in Lafayette’s history” Louisville Times. Dec. 27, 1989.
14 Rose Lueras v. The Town of Lafayette Colorado. No. 9509 State of Colorado, County of Boulder, District Court. 1934.Official Court Records.
15 Rose Lueras v. The Town of Lafayette Colorado
16 Calvo. 2019.
17 Vargas, Ken, Mark and Dorothy. Personal Interview by Frank Archuleta and Rachel Hanson. August 10, 2019.
18 “Seven Added to Auto Toll” The Los Angeles Times. June 17, 1935. Newspapers.com 2019.
19 Vargas.
20 Rose Lueras v. The Town of Lafayette Colorado.
21 Rose Lueras v. The Town of Lafayette Colorado.
22 Rose Lueras v. The Town of Lafayette Colorado. The legacy of Rose and Rosabelle Lueras Santiago and Rose (Lovato) Lueras lived on Chester Street in Lafayette. Santiago served in World War I with the U.S. Army and became a coal miner upon his return home. They had two children, Leonard born in 1920, and Rosabelle born in 1922. Leonard died at the age of 10, from whooping cough. Construction for the Lafayette swimming pool began in 1933. City funds to build the pool came up short and many people in town donated money or supplies. The Lueras family donated 10 sacks of cement. The Lueras family and other families of Hispanic, Latino, and Mexican heritage were denied pool entrance after a sign stating “white trade only” was posted. Rose Lueras lead the discrimination lawsuit against the city of Lafayette after she and her daughter, Rosabelle, were denied entrance to the newly built Lafayette swimming pool on July 31, 1934. A dozen other families joined Rose Lueres’s suit to fight for their 14th Amendment rights. The lawsuit reached the Colorado Supreme Court. While waiting for the case to go to court, Rose was struck and killed by a car in California in June of 1935. Her daughter Rosabelle returned home to live with her father Santiago on Chester Street. At the age of 13, Rosabelle testified on behalf of her deceased mother, Rose. The courts ruled against the Latino families. The pool never reopened. Rosabelle married Leo Vargas and moved to Fort Lupton where they raised their son Leonard, named after her brother. Rosabelle died in 1993. Santiago, Rose, their son Leonard, and Rosabelle are laid to rest in the Lafayette Cemetery.
Madi Vargas and Rachel Hanson
El legado de Rose y Rosabelle Lueras Santiago y Rose (Lovato) Lueras vivían en la calle Chester en Lafayette. Santiago sirvió en la Primera Guerra Mundial con el ejército estadunidense y se convirtió en minero de carbón en su regreso. Santiago y Rose tuvieron dos hijos, Leonard nacido en 1920, y Rosabelle nacida en 1922. Leonard falleció a los 10 años de edad por causa de una tos ferina. La construcción de la nueva piscina para nadar de Lafayette empezó en 1933. Los fondos de la ciudad para construir la piscina se quedaron cortos y mucha gente del pueblo de Lafayette empezó a donar dinero y materiales. La familia Lueras dono 10 sacos de cemento. Se le negó la entrada a la piscina a la familia Lueras y otras familias de patrimonio hispana, latina, y mexicana después de que un letrero leyendo “solo comercio blanco” fue colgado. Rose Lueras lidero la demanda de discriminación contra la ciudad de Lafayette después de que se le negó la entrada a ella y a su hija, Rosebell, a la piscina recién construida el 31 de julio, 1934. Una docena de otras familias se unieron en la demanda con Rose Lueras en lucha por sus derechos de 14ª enmienda. La demanda llego hasta la Corte Suprema de Colorado. Mientras esperaban que la demanda llegara a corte, Rose falleció después de que fue atropellada por un auto en California en junio de 1935. Su hija Rosabelle regreso a casa y vivió con su papa en la calle Chester. A los 12 años Rosabelle testifico ante la corte en nombre de su fallecida madre Rose. La corte fallo contra las familias Latinas. La piscina nunca volvió a abrir. Rosabelle se casó con Leo Vargas y se mudaron a Fort Lupton donde criaron a su hijo Leonard, nombrado por su fallecido hermano. Rosabelle falleció en 1993. Santiago, Rose, Leonard, y Rosabelle están enterrados en el Cementerio de Lafayette.
Madi Vargas and Rachel Hanson
Ruling by the Supreme Court of Colorado Lueras v. Lafayette, 65 P.2d 1431 (Colo. 1937) Supreme Court of Colorado Filed: March 8th, 1937 Precedential Status: Precedential Citations: 65 P.2d 1431, 100 Colo. 124 Docket Number: No. 13,828. Author: Benjamin C. Hilliard
A PROCEEDING under the declaratory judgments act. Plaintiffs in error, petitioners below, alleging that they are of Spanish descent, citizens of the United States and residents of the town of Lafayette, charged that the town *Page 125 and its mayor, trustees, and some lesser town officials, the fire department of the town, its chief and other of its members, all made parties defendant, had conspired together to deny, and had denied, petitioners "their right to the use" of a certain public swimming pool of the said town of Lafayette, contrary to provisions of the Fourteenth Amendment to the Constitution of the United States and the bill of rights of the Constitution of Colorado, and in violation of the civil rights statutes of Colorado, C. L. 1921, chapter 72. The prayer was that the court declare the status of the said pool and of the town in relation thereto, the status of petitioners in relation to their claimed rights to use the pool, and to adjudge that denial of said rights in the premises was in contravention of the constitutional and statutory provisions above mentioned. Issues were formed and trial followed resulting in a denial of the petition. It appears that there is a swimming pool in Lafayette, constructed to an incompleted point by the joint efforts of the town and a governmental activity; that the so-called fire department of the town is voluntary, and that neither it as such nor any of its members is under the control of the town officials; that at a stage when the pool to be available for use required additional expenditure of funds, the town had no money for that purpose; that thereupon for the period involved here, and longer, the town leased the pool to the "fire department," in consideration of which the lessee agreed "to purchase and install at its own expense all equipment necessary for the operation of said swimming pool, and * * * operate said swimming pool at its own expense"; that by the expenditure of a considerable sum, much of which the membership of the volunteer fire department solicited and received through contributions from private sources, the pool was equipped and made ready for use; that when completed a "swimming pool" committee of the "fire department" caused a sign to be placed on the outer wall of the pool, reading: "Firemen's Pool. We reserve the *Page 126 right to reject any or all persons without cause. White trade only. Lafayette Fire Department." There was testimony that some of the petitioners had been told they could not use the pool; but as to all of them the court found that, either the time fixed antedated the opening of the pool or that the expression of denial to them did not come from any of the defendants or the representatives of any of them. The court absolved all defendants from the charge that the lease of the pool was made in furtherance of a scheme and conspiracy to prevent its use by petitioners. It further found that none of the petitioners based any complaint of discrimination upon the sign herein quoted, which seemingly, in its offensive sense, was without application to petitioners. 68 C. J. pp. 257, 258. Our study of the record leads us to the conclusion reached by the trial court. The showing on the part of petitioners was indefinite and uncertain. We further conclude with the trial court that if any declaration in relation to the status of the defendant town were to be made it would have to be "that the town is not responsible." In that connection we commend the court's declination to make such finding because of its possible prejudice to petitioners should they conclude to proceed against the town under the civil rights statutes or otherwise, as advised. In short the court, confronted with a record that did not warrant granting relief to petitioners in the present inquiry, considerately refrained from declaring that which might handicap them in an action of definite objective, should they elect to so proceed. On the whole record we think, as did the learned trial judge, that generally, the declarations sought by petitioners are of things obviously obtaining. To declare "that a statute is a statute," said the court, "or that a Spanish-American is a Spanish-American," tends to solve no problem involved here. The Fourteenth Amendment to the Constitution of the United States, our bill of *Page 127 rights and civil rights statutes are of broad and general application. If petitioners come within the purview of the Constitution and laws referred to, or others, the status resulting from proof thereof would qualify them to invoke and enjoy every remedy and right the law provides — directly to be sought and simply to be adjudged. We think the trial court rightly resolved. Considering the spirit of our institutions, and the rather definite constitutional and statutory provisions in Colorado applicable to the situation here presented, we are disposed to emphasize the thoughtful suggestion of the trial judge that race and color should not be made the basis of discrimination. It tends to induce ill feeling — always potentially detrimental to the well-being of society. Let the judgment be affirmed. MR. CHIEF JUSTICE BURKE and MR. JUSTICE BAKKE concur.
https://www.courtlistener.com/opinion/3317086/lueras-v-lafayette/ (2) ERACISM: A dark decade of KLAN activity aimed at local Latinos Editor’s note: In Part 2 of our continuing “Eracism” series on the history of Latinos in Boulder County, being conducted in partnership with the Boulder County Latino History Project, we explore the role of the Ku Klux Klan.
The sometimes troubling story of how Latinos have been treated in Boulder County over the past century reached a low point in the 1920s, when an environment of racism and mistrust was fueled by the Ku Klux Klan.
The rise of the Klan in Colorado in the early 1920s has been documented in newspaper accounts over the years. Clippings compiled as part of the Boulder County Latino History Project, led by retired University of Colorado history professor Marjorie McIntosh, paint a sordid picture of the KKK’s activities in Boulder County.
While the KKK is perhaps most widely known nationally for its racism against African Americans, the Klan also promoted discrimination against Jews, Catholics and immigrants, including Latinos.
A chapter of the Latino History Project book being drafted by McIntosh notes, “In the Boulder area, KKK venom was directed at Latinos: They were brown-skinned, Catholic, and assumed to be immigrants to this country (sometimes wrongly). Many Americans in the early 21st century think that the Klan was active only in the southern part of the United States, focusing its hatred and violence — including lynchings — on African-Americans. So it may come as a shock to realize how powerful the organization was in Colorado and Boulder County, and to learn that its attacks were targeted at Latinos.”
After the first Klavern was formed in Denver in 1921, the Daily Camera reported on July 15, 1922, that Denver Klan members, traveling in about 50 cars, took 200 Boulderites to a secret ceremony five miles north of the city to “an abandoned road east of Twelfth,” and initiated them into the group that would become the state’s third Klavern, which reportedly grew to between 300 and 500 members.
“The Camera’s informant stated that a flash light [photo] was taken of the group and was to be turned over to the paper for publication,” the newspaper reported. “This has not been done. A few members, unmasked, were required to turn their backs while the photo was being taken. A white cross was used in the ceremony.”
The following November, KKK members made headlines again after making their first public appearance in Boulder: paying a visit to a Salvation Army meeting and dropping 50 half dollars into the Salvation Army kettle.
“Believing in the tenets of the Christian religion as we do and backed by a desire to express 100 per cent Americanism in assisting those agencies engaged in uplifting work of a truly Christian character, we are making this donation to assist you in your local activities,” Klan members wrote in a letter presented at the time of the gift.
“Twenty-five dollars is a great deal of money to the Salvation Army at any time, especially at this time of the year,” Capt. John Z. Davis, who provided the Camera with the letter, told the newspaper, adding that any time the Klan wished to repeat the gesture, they would be welcomed. A Camera article also described the scene the following month when about 300 Klan members paraded along Pearl Street in downtown Boulder in a caravan of 63 cars, led by a float. The cars had their license plates partially painted over to prevent the tracing of their identities, the paper reported. Masked men on the float, most of whom were believed to be from Denver, threw folded circulars bearing the group’s views to people on the street. According to those leaflets, “We stand for free speech, free press, free public schools and separation of church and state” as well as “the purity of womanhood and are pledged to protect and defend the sanctity of the home.
“We are anti-nothing,” the circulars continued, “save those principles which are un-Christian and un- American. Watch us grow in Boulder.”
The KKK also pledged to defend Christian beliefs, abide by U.S. laws and protect “the flower of white American womanhood.”
At one point, eight Klansmen reportedly interrupted a men’s Bible class in a Boulder Presbyterian Church, marching to the altar with candles and chanting, “Who took the Bibles out of public school? We’re going to put them back.”
In 1924, the Klan sent cards to Boulder County residents with a list of Klan-friendly candidates to vote for in the upcoming election. A June 9, 1925, headline in the KKK’s own newspaper, the Rocky Mountain American, proclaimed, “Mammoth Klan Parade in Longmont Followed by Initiating Big Class.” The event reportedly featured Klan members from all over northern Colorado and a huge flaming cross in “the large open space south of the city.”
The Klan’s newspaper carried ads from businesses friendly to their cause, bearing slogans like “Klothing Karefully Kleaned” and “Klean Klassy Kars.”
Some in Boulder publicly opposed the Klan.
Daily Camera Editor L.C. Paddock referred to the group as the “Komic Kapers Klub,” and when Klansman and U.S. Senate candidate W. Rice Means asked to participate in the kickoff for a football game between the University of Colorado and the University of Utah, CU officials replied, “Mr. Means can kick-off anywhere he wants, except in Boulder.” When CU President George Norlin was ordered by the Klan-controlled governor to rid the university of its Jewish and Catholic faculty, he refused, and CU lost state funding as a result.
* * * *
There was a pattern of Klan takeover being duplicated along the Front Range, emanating from Denver.
According to a 1926 account, there were 100 to 200 KKK members in Lafayette, a group that included a majority of city council, school board members, most teachers, the mayor and other city officials. (The city’s first two members were reportedly a dentist and a manager with the Public Service Co., and the first meeting was held at the “J” barn near Isabelle Road north of town.)
According to an April 10, 1971, story by Jim Gregory in the Longmont Times-Call, there was a cross burning in Erie in April 1924 as a protest against local mines hiring “foreigners” instead of local citizens. At that time, Latinos constituted a significant percentage of the mine workers. In the Latino History Project book chapter dealing with the KKK, McIntosh writes that Sally Martinez, “who was living with her parents at the Columbine Mine camp in Serene, three miles east of Lafayette, recalled that the Klan erected crosses there too.”
Crosses were being burned in Louisville and on the lawns of known Catholics in Boulder, according to media reports, and a 53-foot-high cross that was burned on Flagstaff Mountain in May 1924 was visible to towns in East County. Newspapers reported that the Klan also managed to gain power in the town of Lyons and the city of Longmont. About 50 KKK members participated in what was believed to be the first Klan funeral in the state, for the KKK-affiliated mayor of Lyons. And in December 1924, an unknown Klan member erected an eight-foot red cross on the Longmont Christmas tree at Fourth and Main. Longmont was home to Klavern No. 2.
In April 1925, the KKK’s Progressive Economic Party took control of the Longmont City Council and replaced several city officials, prompting a paid advertisement in the local paper protesting the Klan and its “continued stirring of ill feeling among our citizens, the creation of hatred and distrust, the development of destructive factional antagonisms … Citizens are threatened. A campaign of persecution has been started.”
The KKK-controlled city council went on to push through the controversial and expensive construction of the Chimney Rock dam, which was only partially completed when Klan members were ousted in the 1927 election — and work on the dam was discontinued.
The KKK takeover in Boulder County was a mirror of what was going on around the state, which reportedly had more than 50,000 members at its peak. According to newspaper accounts, the Denver Klavern was responsible for naming a KKK-friendly mayor, city attorney, police chief, public safety manager, district court judge, district grand jury and many police officers. Led by Grand Dragon John Galen Locke, the Klan was credited with electing not only Gov. Clarence Morley in 1925, but state legislators who held a majority in the House and nearly a majority in the Senate, the secretary of state and two U.S. senators.
* * * *
Evidence of the KKK’s antagonism against immigrants, including Latinos, is widely documented.
According to an April 19, 1982, article in the Colorado Daily, Denver Klavern No. 1 issued warnings like “insane, feeble-minded and diseased undesirable aliens are being freely admitted to this country.”
“There is no evidence from Boulder County that the Klan carried out lynchings,” McIntosh writes, “but it did try to terrorize those whom it opposed, particularly Latinos who were acting too independently — who did not accept the natural and God-given authority of the whites above them. At least occasionally the Klan used some degree of violence against Latinos or their homes. If it could not chase them out of the county, it could at least remind them that they were to remain subservient to whites.”
By the late 1920s, the influence of the Klan in Boulder County seems to have subsided, and yet its influence lingered. “In Longmont, Fred W. Flanders ran successfully for mayor in 1927 on an anti-Klan platform; when Klan members attended to march through the downtown later that year, he stopped them,” McIntosh writes. “But the local chapter continued to meet for some time longer. Tony Gomez said that his dad, who was living in Longmont in the 1930s, told him that the town was ‘KKK all the way.’” An incident in Lafayette further indicates that the Klan’s racism against Latinos lingered into the 1930s. A community-wide effort to build a public swimming pool — a construction project in which Mexican- Americans participated — was reportedly thwarted after the pool was completed in 1934 when a sign was posted at the entrance saying: “We reserve the right to eject any and all persons without cause. White trade only.” McIntosh writes that Latinos were outraged, and while they challenged the move in court unsuccessfully, the pool was never used, and it was eventually filled in with dirt to make room for a softball field.
The Bob L. Burger Recreation Center now sits on that property and, according to McIntosh, “Sharon Stetson, the first Latina City Council member in Lafayette, described her satisfaction in helping to choose tiles for the swimming pool in the new building, on the very site from which Mexicans had been excluded more than 50 years before.”
* * * *
In the end, Latinos may have played a role in turning away the KKK in Boulder County.
“Oli Duncan, a local historian of Longmont, said that sometime in the 1920s, there was a showdown in Longmont between the Klan and a group of Mexican men,” McIntosh writes. “The Klan’s rallies were on the southeast corner of Third Avenue and Martin, which was then an open field. At one nighttime meeting, dozens of armed Hispanic men appeared. They warned the Klan that if any harm was done to any one of them, all of them would respond. The spokesperson for the group was José Hilario Cortez, the informal head of Longmont’s Hispanic community, a person to whom Latinos turned for advice and help.”
According to newspaper reports, the KKK printed its own obituary when it folded its doors in Boulder: “Boulder Klavern No. 3 officially died at the stroke of midnight, Thursday, July 23, 1925.”
And while this chapter in the often racist treatment of Latinos in Boulder County would close, unfortunately the story is not yet finished.
Definition of Reparations
Reparation is (usually in plural) a payment of time, effort or money to undo past transgression(s).
Reparation (legal) From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
In jurisprudence, reparation is replenishment of a previously inflicted loss by the criminal to the victim. Monetary restitution is a common form of reparation.
In the Basic Principles and Guidelines on the Right to a Remedy and Reparation for Victims of Gross Violations of International Human Rights Law and Serious Violations of International Humanitarian Law, reparation include the following forms: restitution, compensation, rehabilitation, satisfaction and guarantees of non-repetition, whereby
• Satisfaction should include, where applicable, any or all of the following: .. o Public apology, including acknowledgement of the facts and acceptance of responsibility; o Commemorations and tributes to the victims; o Inclusion of an accurate account of the violations that occurred in international human rights law and international humanitarian law training and in educational material at all levels. • Guarantees of non-repetition should include o Providing, on a priority and continued basis, human rights and international humanitarian law education to all sectors of society and training for law enforcement officials as well as military and security forces
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reparation_(legal)
A case for reparations, atonement, or restorative justice
In our search for ways to create a more equal, equitable, and inclusive culture, we often become aware that for many people injustices of the past are still deeply painful. Although much progress has been made, there is often a lack of acknowledgement that these past, and sometime current injustices, have significant impact on minority communities. One way to help shift these hurts and move forward the implementation of civil rights for all is to tell the stories of the past and to acknowledge wrongs that were done. And, then to go beyond those steps and take further action to help heal the pain of the past. In addition, we need to act in the present to support equal rights for all if we want to have a truly inclusive culture.
Sometimes we become aware of a specific story that brings to light past shocking racism and injustice. If we are sincere in our desire to create change we can share that story in a way demonstrates our understanding of the wrong that was done. Concurrently we build on past efforts to make right injustices done in the past.
In telling the story of the 1934 Lafayette Swimming Pool we hope that it will increase people’s understanding of why some of our cultural divides still exist today. By naming the swimming pool within the Bob L. Burger Recreation Center after Rose Lavato Lueras we seek to acknowledge her courage and determination to speak truth to power, expose racism and injustice, and seek a legal solution to ensuring the civil rights of Latinos in Lafayette. Though those efforts were not successful in her era, her efforts were a stepping-stone for people who have followed in her footsteps, seeking justice and fairness for all. Placing a plaque naming the pool after her, and telling her story, is one of many ways we can actively show our commitment to making city inclusive and welcoming to everyone. It is a conscious and deliberate act of retribution, atonement, and restorative justice.
We will follow the example set forth by other leaders who face issues of past injustice. John Hickenlooper did just that in 2014 when addressing the descendants of the Sand Creek Massacre victims, “We should not be afraid to criticize and condemn that which is inexcusable, so I am here to offer something that has been a long time coming. On behalf of the State of Colorado, I want to apologize.” He went on to say Coloradans are sorry for the atrocity the government and its agents visited upon the ancestors of those gathered for the event. He adds that “we will not run from this history… but seek peace and healing.” Hickenlooper is the first governor in Colorado history to offer an apology for the Sand Creek massacre.
We, too, should not run from history. We should face our past, even the difficult stories, and address them with the dignity and response that they deserve. These efforts will go a long way towards mending broken trust and establishing a truly inclusive community.
Susan Booker and Rachel Hanson
In honor of her civil rights work And in acknowledgement of Rights that were denied, We name the Rose Lueras Pool On this day, (date of dedication)
We shall not forget Rose Lavato Lueras’s bravery & strength, And that of her daughter Rosabelle Lueras Vargas, In fighting for the rights Of all residents of Lafayette.
Rose Lavato Lueras ~ September 29, 1902 - June 16, 1935 Rosabelle Lueras Vargas ~ January 6, 1922 - May 21, 1993 In honor of her civil rights work And in acknowledgement of Rights that were denied, We name the Rose Lueras Pool On this day, December 3, 2019
We shall not forget Rose Lavato Lueras’s bravery & strength, And that of her daughter Rosabelle Lueras Vargas, In fighting for the rights Of all residents of Lafayette.
Rose Lavato Lueras ~ September 29, 1902 - June 16, 1935 Rosabelle Lueras Vargas ~ January 6, 1922 - May 21, 1993 InIn honorhonor ofof herher civilcivil rightsrights workwork AndAnd inin acknowledgementacknowledgement ofof RightsRights thatthat werewere denied,denied, WeWe namename thethe RoseRose LuerasLueras PoolPool OnOn thisthis day,day, DecemberDecember 3,3, 20192019
WeWe shallshall notnot forgetforget RoseRose LavatoLavato Lueras’sLueras’s braverybravery && strength,strength, AndAnd thatthat ofof herher daughterdaughter RosabelleRosabelle LuerasLueras Vargas,Vargas, InIn fightingfighting forfor thethe rightsrights OfOf allall residentsresidents ofof Lafayette.Lafayette.
RoseRose LavatoLavato LuerasLueras ~~ SeptemberSeptember 29,29, 19021902 -- JuneJune 16,16, 19351935 RosabelleRosabelle LuerasLueras VargasVargas ~~ JanuaryJanuary 6,6, 19221922 -- MayMay 21,21, 19931993 Colección de Fotos Latinos de Lafayette La Colección de Fotos Latinos de Lafayette destaca algunas de las ricas y maravillosas raíces Latinas en Lafayette. En julio del 2017 el Señor Frank Archuleta se propuso a reunir estas fotografías hermosas. Se exhibió en el Centro Comunitario de Artes The Collective en julio y agosto de 2017, y en la Biblioteca Pública de Lafayette en el 2018.
Esta exhibición espera capturar algunas de las muchas generaciones de familias Latinas que han ayudado crear la ciudad de Lafayette a través de sus logros incluyendo el deber al país, el servicio cívico y logro atlético. El patrimonio de Lafayette está influenciado por las personas que han vivido aquí por muchas generaciones. Reconocemos y celebramos todas las contribuciones a nuestra comunidad. Las familias Latinas continúan de ayudar hacer de Lafayette el lugar maravilloso que es hoy.
Para agregar a su familia o historia familiar a la colección, comuníquese con Madelaine Vargas [email protected] o Rachel Hanson [email protected].
Latinos of Lafayette Photo Exhibit The Latinos of Lafayette Photo Collection highlights some of Lafayette’s rich and wonderful Latino roots. In July 2017, Mr. Frank Archuleta worked to gather this beautiful collection of photographs. It was displayed at The Collective Community Art Center in July and August 2017 and at the Lafayette Public Library in 2018.
This exhibit hopes to capture some of the many generations of Latino families who have helped create the town of Lafayette through their accomplishments including duty to country, civic service and athletic achievements. The heritage of Lafayette is influenced by the people who have lived here over many generations. We acknowledge and celebrate all contributions to our community. Latino families continue to help to make Lafayette the wonderful place it is today.
To add your family or family story to the collection please contact Madelaine Vargas [email protected] or Rachel Hanson [email protected]. Mexican is NOT a race. It is a nationality (citizenship), an ethnicity (culture), but is not a DNA. People from Mexico have NATIVE AMERICAN DNA pure blooded and mixed. Know that Mexico is part of the American continents. A false border does not change DNA or your ancestral land. Your ancestors the Native Americans that lived in Mexico were invaded by Spaniards (Europeans or Caucasians). Hernan Cortés invaded Mexico in 1519 and conquered the Aztec Empire. Hernán Cortés was a Spanish conquistador, or conqueror, best remembered for conquering the Aztec empire in 1521 and claiming Mexico for Spain. The Indigenous people of Mexico were forced by sword and gun to convert to Christianity, change names to Christian/Spanish names, learn Spanish, and abandon all ties and knowledge of their native culture. Male Spaniards enslaved and raped the female Natives and the mixed blood began. Africans were brought to Mexico by the Spaniards as slaves. And as time went on, more of other types of people came to Mexico adding more to the mix. This is why not all “Mexicans” look like your stereotypical Mexican. The term "Mexican" only began on the brink of 1820!!! Mexican IS a "Nationality"/"Culture"... BUT Mexico is largely INDIGENOUS PEOPLES OF THE AMERICAS both Native enclaves that still exist and the largely Mesitizo/a population [which is usually Native American dominant]. So in essence Mexico is Native American (NOT EUROPEAN, ASIAN, NORTH AFRICAN, JEWISH OR SUB- SAHARAN AFRICAN) THE MEXICA "Mexica" (Meh-shee-kah): The "Mexica" were the people that everyone erroneously calls the Aztecs; however, the Aztecs were the Mexica’s ancestors that came from Aztlan. The Mexica were the people from Mexico during 1325 to 1521. "Mexico" is indigenous to the Americas. The invading Spaniards from Spain couldn't pronounce Meshiko correctly. They added the "j" sound and also spelled it with an "x". Now you see it as "Mexico". The Mexica are one of the original indigenous people of Mexico and their language is called Nahuatl. However, when the Spanish invaded Mexico they brought their language and religion from Spain. That is why most Mexicans speak Spanish and believe in a foreign religion. The Mexica were victims of genocide and the survivors of ethnocide. Therefore, those of us who have lost all of our tribal ties from Mexico can claim "Mexica" as a general indigenous identity to unit and reconstruct our culture and pay homage to our ancestors. Many of us already do this when we acknowledge our ancestors were the Aztecs.
From Arturo Garcia
Links of interest
Boulder County Latino History https://bocolatinohistory.colorado.edu/
Eracism Series in Boulder Weekly Magazine
Part 1: Exploring the roots of Boulder County’s Latino population https://www.boulderweekly.com/news/eracism-latino-history-in-boulder-county/
Part 2: Klan activity directed at local Latinos https://www.boulderweekly.com/news/eracism-a-dark-decade-of-klan-activity-aimed-at-local-latinos/
Part 3: Deportation of Latinos to Mexico https://www.boulderweekly.com/news/eracism-unwanted-latinos-deported-from-boulder-county-in- the-1930s/
International Center for Transitional Justice https://www.ictj.org/about
Apologies as a Form of Reparation (from the ICTJ) https://www.ictj.org/publication/more-than-words-apologies-form-reparation
Definition of Reparations https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reparation_(legal)
Lueras Links
https://www.courtlistener.com/opinion/3317086/lueras-v-lafayette/
https://www.dailycamera.com/2011/04/08/lafayettes-whites-only-pool-sparked-1934-lawsuit/
https://www.google.com/search?biw=1404&bih=717&ei=sKk9XZHmGMrItQar3q2gCg&q=%22Lueras+v+ town+of+Lafayette%22&oq=%22Lueras+v+town+of+Lafayette%22&gs_l=psy- ab.3..33i299l2j33i160.22177.22177..24143...0.0..0.165.165.0j1...... 0....1..gws- wiz.aLWBGav04gw&ved=0ahUKEwiR_v-z4tfjAhVKZM0KHStvC6Q4FBDh1QMICg&uact=5