Peace Garden is the tangible reminder of how one community reacted to loss by pulling together and creating a place where hope can blossom. After Denver’s summer of violence in 1994, Ana Chavez (mother of slain Troy Chavez) and other local families decided to create a place that would transform aggression into productive action. These parents believed that if children were given a place of their own, to nurture and gather, they might chose to pursue their dreams instead of living a life of self destruction.

The site reflects the culture, traditions and pride of a community with roots in Central America. The garden art juxtaposes ancient Aztec images with contemporary graffiti art, connecting youth with their rich cultural roots. Sculpture, tiles and pavement stones were developed by local artists Frank Guerrero and Leo Tanguma, in collaboration with Denver Urban Gardens and young apprentices from the neighborhood. The site includes several neighborhood plazas for gathering, performances, and ceremonial space. Community plots in the back of the garden are open to community members and area youth who are mentored by the Troy Chavez Foundation.