As someone deeply committed to the accurate representation of our history, I've been pained to witness the distortion of truth manifested by the Monument to Antoine Robidoux and the Ute Indians at Fort Umcompahgre. This statue is not only a slap in the face to the Ute people but also a gross misrepresentation of their struggle. The Ute people, fighting for their fundamental rights and precious land, fought against Antoine Robidoux and his business interest. It wasn't a peaceful trade as the monument portrays.

Historical data suggest that following the Colorado Gold Rush in the mid-19th century, the Ute people were forced out from most of their lands, which ultimately contributed to several conflicts, including the ones with Robidoux. Their struggle emphasizes their resistance against invasion and exploitation, not the establishment of trade relations (Source: The History of Colorado).

Let's strive for a society where the history is told in full, not in selective snapshots that serve only to glorify invaders and ignore the pain of those invaded. We demand the immediate removal of this monument and for it to be replaced with a truthful representation of the past events. Honor the Ute people and their fight for their rights and land rightfully. Sign this petition to stand with us and demand truth and respect in our historical monuments.