Aspen Gay Ski Week: More Than Just a Pool Party

Aspen. The name conjures images of pristine slopes, luxury chalets, and a vibrant après-ski scene. But for almost half a century, Aspen has also been synonymous with something more: a welcoming haven for the LGBTQ+ community, particularly during the legendary Aspen Gay Ski Week. What started as a small gathering of friends has blossomed into the oldest and largest gay ski event in the country, attracting over 3,000 attendees annually. But beneath the surface of glamorous parties and snowy adventures lies a powerful story of activism, resilience, and the ongoing fight for equality.

From Condo Parties to Landmark Civil Rights

Rewind to the early 1970s. A group of local men in Aspen began connecting with gay visitors who were part of ski clubs from across the nation. Informal get-togethers evolved into organized condo parties, hosted each night of a particular week in January by different clubs. The local contingent always made sure to throw the welcome party. This was the genesis of Aspen Gay Ski Week. But the story doesn't end there.

One pivotal moment occurred when a local resident, Jon Busch, faced discrimination for dancing with another man in a bar. This seemingly small incident ignited a spark. Aspen, despite its progressive reputation, still had its limits. In response, Busch and other local activists spearheaded a campaign to secure gay rights protections in Aspen - a groundbreaking achievement that made Aspen the first municipality in Colorado to pass an anti-discrimination policy for gays and lesbians.

The Backlash and the Boycott

Progress, however, is rarely linear. In the early 1990s, Colorado faced a backlash with the passing of Amendment 2, an anti-gay policy that threatened to undo the hard-won progress of LGBTQ+ rights. The response was swift and powerful: a widespread boycott of Colorado tourism, felt acutely in Aspen, where Gay Ski Week had become a cornerstone of the winter season.

Hollywood and the national and international gay communities stood in solidarity, refusing to support a state that codified discrimination. This boycott brought national attention to the issue, highlighting the financial impact of discrimination and the growing economic power of the LGBTQ+ community. It also underscored the importance of allyship and the crucial role that tourism plays in promoting inclusivity.

The Pool Party: A Celebration of Community and Progress

Today, Aspen Gay Ski Week is a multifaceted event, a far cry from its humble beginnings. While the legendary pool party at the Aspen Recreation Center remains a highlight - arguably the biggest party of the winter season - the week offers a diverse range of activities, from drag brunches and group ski days to comedy shows and dance parties. This year even features Sandra Bernhard performing her one-woman show at the Wheeler Opera House!

What Makes the Pool Party So Special?

A legendary finale: It's the culmination of a week of celebration, connection, and shared experiences.
A vibrant atmosphere: Expect colorful outfits, high-energy music, and a sense of uninhibited joy.
A welcoming space: It's a place where everyone can feel comfortable being themselves and celebrating their identity.

Beyond the Parties: Activism and Inclusion

Aspen Gay Ski Week is now organized as a c3 non-profit, AspenOUT, demonstrating its commitment to giving back to the community. While the week offers unparalleled fun, it also serves as a reminder of the ongoing fight for equality. The organization is deeply involved in supporting local and national LGBTQ+ causes.

Aspen Skiing Company also emphasizes inclusivity. Employees are provided with stickers and pronoun buttons to promote respect and understanding. The company also actively advocates for LGBTQ+ rights on a state and national level, even signing amicus briefs in landmark Supreme Court cases like the one that legalized gay marriage.

Pride: A Legacy of Resistance and Resilience

The story of Aspen Gay Ski Week is inextricably linked to the broader history of the LGBTQ+ rights movement. From the Stonewall riots to the fight against discriminatory legislation like Amendment 2, the journey towards full equality has been long and arduous. Events like Aspen Gay Ski Week serve as both a celebration of progress and a reminder of the work that remains.

So, what's next? How can we continue to build on the legacy of Aspen Gay Ski Week and create a more inclusive world for all? Consider these steps:

Support LGBTQ+ organizations: Donate your time or money to groups that are working to advance equality.
Educate yourself: Learn about the history of the LGBTQ+ rights movement and the challenges that still exist.
Speak out against discrimination: Challenge prejudice and bias whenever you encounter it.
Get Involved with AspenOUT: Whether as a visitor, part-time resident, or full-time local, become a part of the community.

Aspen Gay Ski Week is more than just a party; it's a testament to the power of community, the resilience of the human spirit, and the ongoing pursuit of a more just and equitable world. Come for the skiing, stay for the party, and leave inspired to make a difference.