Denver, CO – One Colorado, the state’s leading advocacy organization for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) Coloradans and their families, stands in solidarity with Maggie Barton, an LGBTQ+ Coloradan who was recently terminated from her teaching position due to her sexual orientation at the direction of the Denver Archdiocese. She taught Technology at All Souls Catholic School in Englewood, Colorado. Maggie Barton shared with One Colorado:

“During my six years at All Souls, I had the joy of teaching and coaching hundreds of students with diverse interests and personalities. I supported and equipped many students on their academic path to learn, grow and thrive. I am thankful for the All Souls community of students, faculty, administration and families, who continue to show their support. The injustice of my termination lies with the Denver Archdiocese and their anti-LGBTQ+ policies. My sexual orientation is one facet of who I am, and has no bearing on my abilities as a teacher or my commitment to the values of my Catholic faith.”

Nadine Bridges, One Colorado's Executive Director shares:

“We are disappointed to see the Denver Archdiocese continue to take this harmful stance towards LGBTQ+ Coloradans. Faith communities, including schools, should be a place for love and support. Denying admission to LGBTQ+ students, excluding LGBTQ+ parents from full participation, and in this case terminating LGBTQ+ teachers for no other cause than for who they love alienates and discriminates against LGBTQ+ Coloradans of Catholic faith.”

View Maggie Barton’s personal statement here. Maggie Barton is available for select interviews to share her story. Media may contact Gillian Ford, One Colorado’s Communications Director, to be connected.