This November, Denver voters face a critical decision on Initiated Ordinance 308, also known as the Denver Fur Ban. While the measure will be sold as well-intentioned, it goes way too far, carrying significant economic and cultural risks for our city.
I was born and raised on my family’s farm and ranch in rural Colorado. Today, I live in Metro Denver and lead Colorado’s oldest and largest Chamber of Commerce. What makes Denver so special, compared to competitor markets, is that we can uniquely bring urban and rural together.
We can be innovative and cutting-edge and honor and respect our heritage at the same time.
This ban represents a direct attack on the fabric of our community – and indulges national interest groups who don’t have any appreciation for what makes Denver so special.
Denver is a hub for business and tourism, and we must opppose measures that damage our reputation and economic stability – and antagonize our fellow residents. In 2023, tourism generated over $10.3 billion in economic activity for the Mile High City.
Much of that success is rooted in Denver’s unique appeal—that blend of modern innovation, rich cultural history, and proximity to outdoor recreation. The fur ban threatens to erode that identity and directly targets small businesses and traditions that make Denver distinct.
Our National Western Stock Show (NWSS), a cornerstone of Denver’s economy and culture, is directly at risk unless we defeat this ban. The Stock Show, which generated $171 million in net economic activity across Colorado in 2023, is more than just an annual event—it is a vital economic engine and cultural icon enjoyed by generations of Denverites.
However, if the fur ban passes, over 50 small businesses would be directly affected, and many could be forced out of the show – their products now illegal.
Nearly 20% of Stock Show exhibitors rely on fur-based products, including cowboy hats. The very first Stetson cowboy hat was conceived, crafted and sold in Colorado. Making that illegal today should be unthinkable.
Denver’s cultural and economic ties to the West go beyond the Stock Show.
The proposed fur ban would also have severe consequences for major cultural events such as the Denver March Powwow and the Indian Market and Southwest Art Fest. These events draw participants and visitors from across North America, and vendors who sell traditional fur-based crafts are an essential part of the experience and culture.
The Denver March Powwow, which features over 1,500 dancers from nearly 100 tribes, would struggle to be viable if fur products are banned.
The ban would undermine the financial sustainability and historical relevance of these important events, depriving Indigenous and Native American communities of vital economic opportunities and cultural expression.
It is essential to recognize that many of the small businesses affected by the proposed ban are local artisans, deeply connected to Denver’s identity.
Custom hatmakers, who produce iconic cowboy hats, would be devastated.
These businesses are family-owned, passed down through generations, and have long contributed to the fabric of our city. Banning them would not only cost jobs but would erase an important part of our Western heritage.
The fur ban would also disrupt Denver’s outdoor recreation economy, particularly the fly-fishing industry. Many fishing flies are made using fur, and banning these products would harm local fishing shops, guide services and even online orders.
These small businesses are critical to Denver as a gateway to outdoor adventure, and their survival is at stake.
Proponents would have you believe this ordinance is about expensive fur coats and fashion.
Make no mistake, it would put industries that are integral to Colorado’s culture and economy out of business.
We’re not Hollywood. We’re the real West.
Bans represent overreaches that do more harm than good. They threaten jobs, small businesses, and the cultural institutions that define Denver’s place in the West.
For generations, Denver has been a city that honors its history while looking toward the future. We are an inclusive community where urban and rural come together. Where history and heritage give energy for the future. We don’t have to agree on everything, but we also don’t ban whole industries, close small businesses, and erase our heritage when we differ.
I urge Denver voters to reject the fur ban (and the slaughterhouse ban) this November. Vote “no” on these ill-conceived measures and stand with us to protect what makes Denver so special.
J. J. Ament is President and CEO of the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce.
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