Twenty percent of Coloradans identify as Hispanic. By contrast, about 3 in every 100 people in the state is of Asian or Pacific Island descent.
As far as minority groups go, it's among the smallest. As far as influence, the reach goes much farther.
The term: "Asian" includes more than 20 subgroups - including Chinese, Filipino, Vietnamese, Malaysian and Japanese. Each with its own culture, religion, history and food.In 1915, Buddhist ministers traveled to Colorado to visit the newly arrived Japanese immigrants in Denver and Rocky Ford.
One year later, the Denver Buddhist church was established.Now called the Tri-state Denver Buddhist temple, it's celebrating 100 years with celebrations of culture: kimono fashion shows and Sake making.
It may seem different to see a golden Buddha and gilded alters in the front of the church and leaders are very aware that many see Buddhism as a mysterious religion."We accept you as you are. that's one of our main tenants. We accept you as you are and know - that I am accepted as I am. That's the common thread - that kind of feeling goes a long way. This is not something to be afraid of, it's very down to earth," explained Richard Yoshida, a member of the 100th anniversary committee at the temple.
Ann Yoshihara-Murphy, another committee member told us how much the temple has meant to her."The temple has made me feel important and the fact that it's 100 years old makes me know that my relatives - and going forward, my family - will also have that backing of something more than just being Japanese, just being Buddhist. It's just more significant than that," she said.
The temple sits at the corner of 19th and Lawrence at Sakura Square. That's where the Cherry Blossom Festival is held every year.