On March 23, 2025, the Arvada Center, in partnership with Colorado Gives Foundation, hosted a compelling discussion panel following a performance of Bruce Norris’s Pulitzer Prize-winning play, Clybourne Park. The event brought together experts in housing, community activism and philanthropy to explore the play’s enduring themes of displacement, gentrification and affordability—issues that remain strikingly relevant today.
Moderated by Brian Rossbert, Executive Director of Housing Colorado, the discussion delved into how Clybourne Park’s themes intersect with the current housing landscape in Colorado, particularly in Jefferson County.
THE PANELISTS
- Amy Case-Miranda – Deputy Chief Executive Officer at Jefferson County Housing Authority
- Melissa Mejía – Community Activist, focusing on displacement and gentrification
- savinay nathan – Community Impact Vice President at Colorado Gives Foundation
A central concern highlighted was the increasing difficulty middle-income earners face in securing housing. savinay nathan pointed out, “Home prices in Jefferson County are nearly 150% of the national average, and many renters are ‘cost-burdened,’ spending over 30% of their gross income on housing.” This financial strain disproportionately affects essential workers like teachers, nurses and firefighters, who often struggle to live in the communities they serve.
Adding to the urgency of the situation, Amy Case-Miranda noted, “Only about 1 in 4 families who qualify income-wise for the housing choice voucher can access [vouchers] because they’re in such short supply. We hear of waitlists with thousands of people.” This stark reality underscores the severe shortage of affordable housing options.
THE HUMAN Impact of housing inequality
Melissa Mejía emphasized the human cost of displacement, reminding the audience that gentrification is about more than economics; it’s about people losing their homes and histories. She shared poignant stories of families forced to relocate due to rising costs, illustrating the personal and painful nature of these changes.
The panelists further noted that the housing shortage extends beyond affordability, encompassing accessibility and long-term sustainability. “We’re short 20,000 housing units in Jefferson County alone,” nathan stated. This shortage impacts everyone, from young professionals looking for affordable housing to retirees who want to remain in their homes and communities as they grow older.
The role of art in social change
Throughout the evening, panelists and attendees reflected on the power of theater and the arts to foster social awareness and drive change. As Philip C. Sneed, President and CEO of the Arvada Center, remarked, “At the Arvada Center, we believe the arts should entertain, challenge our perspectives, and inspire positive change. This discussion exemplifies our mission: bridging artistic expression and community action.”
The conversation concluded with a call to action: to engage in deeper dialogues about housing, stay informed, and support artistic platforms that illuminate these critical issues. As Clybourne Park reminds us, the struggles surrounding housing and community identity are ongoing. However, through dialogue, awareness and action, we can strive for a more equitable future.
