National Historic Landmarks Diversity

Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland has announced the designations of 19 new National Historic Landmarks (NHLs) reflecting the importance of the sites in sharing our country’s diverse history. The new NHLs are nationally significant properties for LGBTQ Americans, African Americans, Asian American Pacific Islanders & women’s history in addition to important moments in the development of American technology, landscape design & art. Secretary Haaland stated, “As America’s storyteller, it is our privilege at the Department at the Interior, through the National Park Service, to tell our nation’s history & honor the many historical chapters & heroic communities that brought us to where we all today. These newly designated historic landmarks join a list of the nation’s premier historic & cultural places, all of which were nominated through voluntary & locally led stewardship.” One of the LGBTQ designations is the Boulder Colorado County Courthouse where the first same gender marriage licenses were issued in 1975 by County Clerk Clela Rorex. Mardi Moore, Chief Executive Officer of Rocky Mountain Equality added, “I wish I could pick up the phone & call Clela right now. When I heard the news, my heart took an extra beat, caused by happiness & pride. This announcement couldn’t be more timely as we approach the 50th anniversary of when she issued these marriage licenses.” Chuck Sams National Park Service Director concluded, “The National Park Service is committed to helping preserve & share a fuller & more inclusive account of our nation's history, a history that is not complete until all stories are represented. These 19 newly designated landmarks help do just that. We are proud to recognize these nationally significant places representing the diversity of the American experience & our country’s collective heritage.”

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