Chairman Melvin J. Baker greeted the attendees of the Ute Day, Legislative Breakfast which began the day long events.

Tribal leaders stand together in the Colorado State Capitol in celebration of Ute Day on Monday, April 11, 2022. Legislators throughout the State of Colorado and tribal leaders from all three Ute tribes gathered for introductions and discussions on how to improve opportunities for Colorado’s oldest continuous residents.

Shaun Chapoose, Chairman of the Ute Indian Tribe Business Council added he was happy to once again be on traditional Ute land. The Ute bands which make up the Ute Indian Tribe were forcibly removed and relocated to Utah.

Tribal Elder, Ute Mountain Ute Historic Preservation Officer, and Sun Dance Chief Terry Knight provided the invocation in the Colorado State Capitol.

Members of Tribal Council and the Legal Department stand for a photo with Senator Jessie Danielson, a strong supporter and advocate for the Ute people. She has sponsored legislation for removing Native American Mascots and supporting Missing and Murdered Indigenous Relatives.

The Southern Ute Veterans Association opened this year’s Ute Day recognition by posting the colors and proudly displaying the tribal flags.