A major milestone for LGBTQ+ equality has been honored: The Boulder County Courthouse has been designated a National Historic Landmark for its pivotal role in advancing marriage equality.
In 1975, Boulder County Clerk Clela Rorex made history when she issued the nation’s first same-sex marriage license to two men from Colorado Springs. After consulting with the assistant district attorney and finding no law prohibiting it, Rorex acted on what she described as a matter of “basic human decency.” Her decision ignited a nationwide conversation about marriage rights and thrust Boulder into the spotlight as a trailblazer for civil rights.
Rorex’s choice came with personal costs. She faced relentless harassment and public backlash, including hateful letters and death threats targeting her family. Yet she remained resolute, shaped by her experience as a feminist advocating for equal rights. “Who was I to deny equal rights to someone else who was asking for the same?” she reflected years later. She died in 2022 at the age of 78.
The courthouse’s new designation recognizes not only this singular moment but also Boulder County’s enduring legacy of inclusion and equity, the county said. Boulder County commissioners praised the honor, emphasizing its significance in today’s climate.
“This designation celebrates the courage of one individual and the ongoing fight for equality,” said Commissioner Ashley Stolzmann. Commissioner Marta Loachamin added that the recognition comes at a crucial time, reaffirming the nation’s commitment to justice and inclusion.
This is one of 19 new National Historic Landmarks recognizing LGBTQ, African American, Asian American Pacific Islander, women’s history and contributions to American technology, landscape design and art.
“I wish I could pick up the phone and call Clela right now,” said Mardi Moore, chief executive officer of Rocky Mountain Equality. “When I heard the news, my heart took an extra beat, caused by happiness and pride. This announcement couldn’t be more timely, as we approach the 50th anniversary of when she issued these marriage licenses.”
