Press releases are provided to Yellow Scene Magazine. In an effort to keep our community informed, we publish some press releases in whole.

“I fully intend to be an unapologetic force for the people,” Coates says.

Hashim Coates: Navy Veteran, Small Business Owner, Humanitarian, Unifier, and Democratic Leader Announces Campaign for Progressive Change in Arapahoe County

Aurora, Jan. 1, 2024 — Hashim Coates, a seasoned community advocate, United States Navy Veteran and a steadfast Democrat, has officially declared his candidacy for the District 5, Arapahoe County Commissioner in the upcoming 2024 election. Coates is recognized as a formidable presence in party politics and a compassionate unifier, offering a wealth of experience and a progressive vision. As a thriving consulting firm’s owner and passionate advocate for social justice reform, Hashim Coates is uniquely equipped to serve and elevate the community.

Building on a Legacy of Community Involvement and Advocacy

Starting his journey in community service early, Hashim volunteered for the Greater Park Hill Association in his youth. He enhanced his advocacy work during the AIDS epidemic as a liaison for prevention and was a significant part of Brothers for Life for over a decade. In 2010, he joined One Colorado, focusing on civil unions and health disparities in the LGBTQ communities. In 2013, Hashim turned his full attention to politics, notably contributing to Andrew Romanoff for Congressional District 6. He continued contributing his skills to six successful Aurora City Council races, Aurora Public School Boards races, Jason Crow for Congressional District 6, Phil Weiser for Colorado Attorney General, and many other successful campaigns.

Hashim Coates earned acclaim for his impactful contributions and motivational influence within the Democratic Party, becoming the inaugural recipient of the Arapahoe County Young Democrats Mentor of the Year award. In 2020, the Democratic Party further acknowledged his dedication as he was honored with the Volunteer of the Year award by the Colorado Democrats. Adding to his accolades, Coates was bestowed with the 2023 Community Hope Award. Hashim stands as a living embodiment of Democratic and humanitarian spirit and values.

The Coates for Commissioner campaign is endorsed by notables such as former Colorado Democratic State Party Chair Morgan Carroll, Arapahoe County Commissioners Leslie Summey and Jessica Campbell-Swanson, Arapahoe County Treasurer Michael Westerburg, Arapahoe County Assessor PK Kaiser, CU Regent Wanda James, State Senators Janet Buckner and James Coleman, State Representatives Mandy Lindsay and Steven Woodrow, Aurora City Councilmember Alison Coombs, Denver City Councilmember Shontel Lewis, current and former School Board members throughout the state of Colorado, Former Arapahoe County Democratic Party Chairs Patricia Shaver and Kristin Mallory, Community Advocates Candice Bailey, Shana Armstrong, and Dr. Ryan Ross, and many others.

A Vision for Unity and Progressive Change

Coates’ campaign is anchored in his lifelong commitment to humanitarian and Democratic values and his proven ability to unite diverse voices for the common good. He is dedicated to leading with compassion, integrity, and a focus on the well-being of all community members.

“I am running for County Commissioner to bring a fresh, progressive voice to Arapahoe County. My focus is on unifying and uplifting our community through actionable change, prioritizing housing affordability, environmental sustainability, and social justice reform. Together, we can build a more inclusive and prosperous future for all our residents.”

“This campaign is responsible to THE PEOPLE. It’s time the people of District 5 had a choice for a representative who will unapologetically fight for them! And that is why this campaign is committed to being unbought; People bossed”

Campaign Priorities

The Coates for Commissioner campaign will address key issues such as housing affordability, environmental sustainability, economic development, community safety, and criminal justice reform, tailoring its priorities to the specific needs of the community.

Inclusive Campaign Engagement

Hashim Coates invites community members, Democrats, non-Democrats, veterans, and small business owners to engage with his campaign and press/media. Whether through volunteering, contributing, or attending events, he believes everyone plays a vital role in shaping the community’s future. Join the campaign kickoff this Saturday, January 6th, @ 3 pm at Parkside Eatery, 14515 E. Alameda Ave., Aurora, CO, 80012.

About Hashim Coates:

Born and raised in Denver, Colorado, Hashim Coates is a Navy Veteran who transitioned into the private sector after military service. He has been deeply involved in advocacy work, focusing on HIV and STD prevention. While attending Metro State University of Denver, Hashim was active in student government and later ventured into political strategy and community organizing. He currently serves as the executive director of BBRB, representing Black and brown business owners in Colorado’s cannabis industry, and co-hosts “Dope Black Thoughts.”