Groups protest stay at home order in Denver

DENVER, Colo. (KRDO) -- Protesters descended on the state capitol building Sunday to express their displeasure with Colorado's stay at home order. Governor Polis issued the executive order on March 25 to slow the spread of COVID-19.

At least two groups, ReOpen Colorado and the Colorado Libertarian Party, organized the protests outside of the Colorado State Capitol, according to our partners at 9News.

The Colorado Joint Information Center released a statement on the protests, acknowledging their frustrations but saying the stay at home order is meant to protect them.

"We understand people are frustrated with our current situation, but the stay-at-home order protects the health, safety and welfare of our entire community," JIC said in a statement obtained by 9News. "Operation Gridlock would be a wholly irresponsible and reckless way to express those frustrations."

A spokesperson for Polis provided the following statement to 9News when asked about the protests:

“Coloradans have a first amendment right to protest and to free speech, and the governor hopes that they are using social distancing and staying safe. No one wants to reopen Colorado businesses and lift these restrictions more than the Governor, but in order to do that, Coloradans have to stay home as much as possible during this critical period, wear masks and wash their hands regularly to slow the spread of this deadly virus.”

Steve Peck with ReOpen Colorado told 9News that the group's Facebook page was created on April 13, and had gained more than 12,000 followers by April 18.

Peck said ReOpen Colorado is asking group members to be respectful, wear masks and properly social distance if they exit their cars.

See here for more information about the protest.