This is [Not] Who We Are

“The happiest place in America is Boulder, Colorado”
- said no Black person ever

A documentary film exploring the gap between Boulder's progressive self-image and the lived experiences of its Black citizens.

Boulder, Colorado, prides itself on being beautiful, welcoming, and inclusive. This Is [Not] Who We Are, explores the gap between Boulder’s self-image and the more complex lived experiences—both historical and contemporary—of its Black citizens.

Black people have lived in Boulder continuously for nearly 150 years, but their history is not well known. Black families have faced discrimination in housing, employment, education, health care, criminal justice, and social activities.

This is [Not] Who We Are braids the lived experiences of Black Boulderites ranging in age from 12 to 78. Some stories are searing, while others are hopeful. The film seeks to open a space for dialogue among Boulderites and about cities like Boulder, overwhelmingly white, wealthy, and conflicted about issues of diversity, inclusion, and equity. Is a better future possible, both in Boulder and in cities like it across America?

Released 2022