Gov. Polis holds virtual statewide address to honor Coloradans lost during the COVID-19 pandemic

DENVER, Colo. (KRDO) -- Across Colorado, people remembered and honored the lives lost during the COVID-19 pandemic.

March 5 marks one year since the first confirmed COVID-19 case in the state.

According to state health officials, within the last year, nearly 6,000 Coloradans died from the virus.

Friday evening, Governor Jared Polis asked the general public to join him in a statewide Evening of Remembrance.

Cities and counties across the state turned their buildings magenta during the evening, magenta being a color that represents universal love: compassion and kindness.

Earlier in the afternoon, WWII-era aircraft flew over parts of the state.

At 6:30 p.m., Gov. Polis held a virtual statewide address.

The address began with an opening prayer offered by Pastor Josh Kingry of Red Rocks Church.

Gov. Polis then addressed the state of Colorado regarding the pandemic.

“It’s the loss of life as we knew it, of the certainty we once took for granted, and of who we were before this pandemic began. Each of us has lived a different experience over this last year, but we all have reason to mourn. With all change comes loss, with all loss comes grief. But out of our pain, we’ve summoned strength and resilience that lives deep in our DNA as Coloradans. Time and time again we have proven that no matter how often we are knocked down, we will keep getting up. We do not quit because we are Coloradans,” Gov. Polis said.

The stream ended with Mary Louise Lee performing a rendition of 'Amazing Grace' accompanied by the Colorado Symphony.

State officials shared a list of cities, counties, and organizations who participated in the Evening of Remembrance:

You can watch the stream below: