“He was a committed guy, determined, and a people person:” Penfield Tate III reflects on his father’s legacy

KGNU’s Abby O’Brien sat down with Penfield Tate III to discuss the life and legacy of his father, Boulder’s first and only Black mayor, whose impact is still felt today.

“My dad ran for office in 1971, and it was really in the midst of the civil rights movement, but more importantly, the anti-war, the anti-Vietnam movement, and the push for women’s rights and for young people,” Tate III said.

Mayor Penfield Tate II strived to increase LGBTQ+ rights, women’s rights, affordable housing, and opportunities for minorities in Colorado.

“ He was, you know, a civil rights lawyer. He was a family man. He had worked to help CU bring more black students in particular, on campus. He was a committee guy, determined and he was a people person. My dad was real easy to talk to,” Tate III said.

Black History Month, which comes to an end this weekend, is an opportunity to celebrate and reflect on the legacies of countless Black leaders and movements. But those legacies are felt year-round, not just during the month of February. Listen to the full conversation about Mayor Penfield Tate II and the work that he did.

This story aired on the Morning Magazine, KGNU’s weekday morning show featuring in-depth discussions on local news issues. Click here to listen to other episodes of the Morning Magazine.