Why is the Denver City and County Building lighting up purple?

DENVER (KDVR) — Those passing by the City and County Building of Denver may see the color purple meet their eye as they look toward the government building. The building often lights up with different colors signifying different celebrations, honors or memorials, but what does the color purple represent?

The purple is in support of those who are fighting gynecological cancer.

Like many other forms of cancer, a color and month will be designated to the specific type of cancer. One of the more famous variations is the bright pink associated with breast cancer in October. The pink is usually donned by athletes, celebrities and citizens alike.

While some colors are not as well known as breast cancer’s bright pink, it does not make them any less important or impactful. There are still thousands of people suffering from the cancers associated with the other colors.

Gynecological cancer and the color purple

The month of September and the color purple are the symbols associated with gynecological cancer. Over the course of 2023, an estimated 114,810 people were diagnosed with some form of gynecological cancer in the United States alone. Of those 114,810 cases, an approximate 34,020 people passed away.

Gynecological cancer is an over-encompassing term that is used for cancers of the female reproductive system such as ovarian, uterine, cervical, vulvar and vaginal cancers.

The purple used during the month is a symbol to support gynecological cancer patients, research, treatment and awareness. There is also a secondary color, teal, that is used throughout the month. The teal is used to raise awareness for ovarian, cervical and uterine cancers.

Those who see the purple should not only see it as a symbol of support but also as a reminder to monitor their own health. The Foundation for Women’s Cancer urges an increased emphasis on pursuing preventative measures and understanding the different ways to reduce the risk of gynecological cancer.

When passing the City and County Building, know it is lit up in purple as a beacon for those who are enduring a difficult battle with various forms of gynecological cancer.

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