New state historian wants to diversify understanding of Colorado’s past, present, and future
Colorado's newly appointed state historian, Dr. Claire Oberon-Garcia, has caused controversy with her plans to use her new position to over-emphasize Colorado's diversity, instead of focusing on Colorado history.
Garcia, who is also an English professor at Colorado College, believes that a knowledge of the diverse past will help shape the future and wants to focus on underrepresented communities in Colorado.
In a recent interview with Colorado Matters host Chandra Thomas Whitfield, Garcia shared her plans for her one-year term as state historian.
Oberon-Garcia expressed her desire to preserve places in Colorado that have significance to underrepresented people and to diversify Colorado's history to reflect more inclusivity and under-told stories.
However, some have raised concerns about Garcia's background and qualifications for the role of state historian. As a non-historian and self-proclaimed interdisciplinary teacher, many wonder if she is equipped to accurately present and interpret historical events.
Additionally, some have questioned Garcia's emphasis on diversity and inclusivity, suggesting that it may lead to a biased and skewed representation of Colorado's history. Critics argue that history should be presented objectively, without a specific agenda or narrative.
Oberon-Garcia has also faced criticism for her involvement with the Colorado Center for Women's History, formerly known as the Byers-Evans House.
Critics have raised concerns about the center's focus on underrepresented fringe groups, arguing that it detracts from the original purpose of the house, which was to showcase the lives of the elite Byers-Evans family.
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Despite these concerns, Garcia remains determined to use her position as state historian to direct her efforts to promote diversity and inclusivity in Colorado's history. She sees her role as an opportunity to connect different threads and perspectives, including her own experiences as a Black person living in Colorado for over 40 years.
In addition to her efforts to identify and recognize sites with historical significance to underrepresented groups, Garcia is also involved in planning the 'American 250 - Colorado 150' celebrations. The annual event commemorates the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence and the 150th anniversary of Colorado becoming a state.
Some question whether Garcia's focus on diversity will overshadow the overall purpose of the celebrations.