DENVER (KDVR) — On Saturday morning, The Colfax Center, a resource center for members of the LGBTQ community, said it had to close its doors for the rest of the day, after learning that the center’s building in Colfax had been vandalized. According to a statement on the organization’s website.
The Colfax Center said someone tried to throw a large rock at three windows near the building’s main entrance. The stones thrown raised alarm, and members of the organization were alerted.
FOX31 reached out to the Denver Police Department, who confirmed they are investigating the incident.
“The incident has been reported, and Denver Police are investigating. At this time, we cannot confirm the alleged suspect, as investigators look further into the matter,” a Denver Police Department spokesperson said in a statement to FOX31.
The incident was recorded on the building’s surveillance cameras.
“It was purposeful,” Kim Salvaggio, CEO of the Colfax Center, said in a news release. “As a community, we know that these moments are not just random acts of harm. While we may never know the intent behind this vandalism, we understand it within a broader history of attacks and intimidation that our community has faced.”
Saturday’s programming has been canceled, but the organization said future programming will not be affected.
“Our commitment is unwavering — this is what resilience looks like. We will not disappear,” Salvaggio said in the statement.
The building’s front windows are boarded up while the organization begins repairs. Colfax said it intends to make additional investments in safety and security.
“We know these changes can be difficult and even exciting to see. Please know that these decisions are being made with great care and thought. Unfortunately, we are at a time when we must prioritize security in new and more meaningful ways — but we will do so while continuing to focus on community, connection, and care,” Salvaggio said.
While window repairs are being made, signs covering the damage display the messages “You’ll Never Break Our Spirit” and “Broken Windows Never Break a Community.”
The organization said that every challenge it faces reaffirms its commitment to inclusivity and authenticity.
“These messages aren’t just declarations — they’re reflections of our mission: to engage, empower, enrich, and advance Colorado’s LGBT community. This mission is more than a statement; it’s a living promise — built on generations of courage and love. Every challenge we face reminds us why we exist: to create a world in which everyone can live authentically, safely, and proudly,” he said. Salvaggio.
The Colfax Center has been in operation for 50 years.