by A.N. Carter

Created on: December 04, 2008   Last Updated: January 08, 2009

Though Denver, Colorado has a largely conservative population, it was the chosen city to host the Democratic National Convention. This decision has greatly affected the city's reputation, economic status, and national view of its citizens.

Denver's colorful past has left it with quite a reputation. In the 1920's, Mayor Dewey Bailey, elected twice, was associated with the Ku Klux Klan, and for many years after, local institutions and social mediums were stained by this. Seventy-five years later, the first African American President-Elect stood, as Denver's citizens did, against this dark past and tried to overcome it. With throngs of cheering Coloradans welcoming their guests, the city was able to take a step into the future and out of the past.

Of course, this event caused dissention among many of Denver's citizens, who raced to the streets to protest the convention. They were joined, of course, by others willing to make the trip to speak their opinions. However, this reflected well on Denver, as there were hardly any protestors who used racial remarks to speak their minds. Instead, the protestors reflected well on Denver, as they proved that though they may not always agree, they can still voice their opinions in a safe, classy manner.

Though some may inaccurately argue that the Democratic National Convention had little effect on Denver's economy, the truth is that it had a substantial impact. After the gathering, Denver Mayor John Hickenlooper released a report that stated that local revenue exceeded $266 million, an amount much higher than the expected $160 million. The convention also provided $2.7 million in tax revenue. Unlike predictions, the report also stated that the city experienced very little loss of business during the economic spike. In addition, the Mayor released a statement where he said that the positive experiences of the visitors, worldwide media attention, and conduct of locals has ensured that the city will continue to experience growth in both business and tourism.

The innovation, wisdom, and civic pride exhibited by Denver's citizens were nearly unknown to the rest of the nation until the convention brought the spotlight. For instance, many Americans did not know that Denver was so ethnically diverse. Immigrants from all over the world have flocked and flourished in the Mile High City, which has also provided an impressive array of restaurants and cultural institutions. Moreover, Denver has a great deal of "green legislation" and environmentally concerned citizens and businesses. With such beautiful mountains and green forests, the city provides a shining example to the rest of the country.

All in all, the effect the Democratic National Convention had a positive effect on Denver's reputation. For a city that has come so far in so little time, it seems extremely appropriate that they had the honor of hosting such a historic convention.

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