Africa Agenda Denver’s Metro Africans meet with State Rep. Naquetta Ricks, and US Senator from Colorado, Michael Bennet, at the Community College of Aurora, Sunday, January 17th, 2026
In a meeting held inside the student rotunda at the Community College of Aurora on Sunday, January 17th, and convened by state Rep. Naquetta Ricks, Sen. Michael Bennet took a myriad of questions in the face of a charged political environment in America today.
Lasting over two hours, the senator from Colorado outlined his efforts to improve housing affordability for the less privileged. He also described the leader he would be if he wins the governor’s race this November.
At length, Bennet answered nearly two dozen questions ranging from issues with President Donald Trump, his strict immigration policies, and the broader challenges of global politics. These included topics from Venezuela to Israel, and Africa.
A Community Asking for Answers
When he entered the room a little after 5 pm, Bennet received a standing ovation, including an introduction by Ricks. He said Ricks is setting an example for the Colorado community.
Ricks herself received applause from the more than 40 participants at the event.
“Some of you probably know her well, but she is a trailblazer in our legislature, and is a fierce advocate for Aurora, she is a fierce advocate for our immigrant community,” Bennet said.
As a gubernatorial candidate, Bennet cited issues around affordability, healthcare, childcare, education, and the economic and political climate as reasons prompting him to run.
He criticized the National Democratic Party for lacking a clear message during the 2024 election. He said this contributed to Trump’s reelection.
“Colorado can be a beacon for the rest of the country, and that’s the other reason I am running,” he added.
US Immigration Policy Dominates the Discussion
Before taking questions, Bennet discussed his background as a former businessman, superintendent of Denver Public Schools, and senator. He argued that these experiences give him an edge in fulfilling the governor’s role better than his unnamed opponent.
When he started answering questions, the room’s atmosphere shifted. The exchanges remained mostly friendly and respectful, but emotions ran high—especially on immigration.
For a community fearful about their future in America, Bennet took time to apologize for what he described as the negative developments in the country under Trump’s leadership.
Ricks’s first question addressed community fears that what happened in Minneapolis could happen in Colorado.
In a calm, measured tone, the senator explained that he has actively opposed Trump in various ways, including delaying nominations due to Trump’s policies. Furthermore, he claimed his record against abuses of the Trump administration is probably the best among Senate members.
He expressed belief that America would not tolerate mass deportations, ICE raids, and similar actions for much longer.
Somalis Say They Are Under Attack
Members of the local Somali community, among others, questioned why Trump was attacking their community. Bennet said it was painful to hear the U.S. president use language that disparaged African communities.
Stories of individual cases soon poured in, with many raising their hands to ask questions.
Tony Frimpong from Ghana, an entrepreneur who has lived locally for many years, shared the tragic story of a relative in immigration custody. After a serious medical emergency, the relative was still denied bail and remained detained by ICE.
Bennet asked that these cases be referred to his office. He called Trump’s immigration policies “reprehensible” and “out of keeping with our values as Americans.”
Among the other community groups present were Ghanaians, Nigerians, and Ethiopians living in Colorado.
Bennet, who cited his stamina for handling questions, lamented the failure of the 2013 Gang of Eight immigration bill, which passed the Senate but was killed in the House. Notably, he noted that the U.S. has not passed any major immigration law since Reagan’s presidency.
He also congratulated Senegal on winning the latest African Nations Cup finals, just hours before the event. “Go Broncos and Go Senegal,” he declared.
Other officials present included Mordecai Ian Brownlee, president of the Community College of Aurora, Rep. Michael Carter of House District 36, and Aurora Public Schools Board of Education President Anne Keke.
