Dear Friends,
Last week, Family Policy Alliance CEO Craig DeRoche shared with our national audience about Colorado’s House Bill 25-1312, which is “one of the most radical efforts we’ve seen to undermine parental rights, restrict free speech, and elevate government authority over the family.”
Today, I want to urge you to make your voices heard on this bill – even if you already did so last week when you received Craig’s email. I can’t overstate the threat this bill poses to everything you and I hold dear. Among many concerns, HB25-1312 redefines “coercive control” in child custody cases to include actions such as “deadnaming” and “misgendering.” This means that parents who refer to their child by their biological sex or birth name could be deemed abusive, potentially leading to loss of custody.
The bill would also amend the Colorado Anti-Discrimination Act to classify “deadnaming” and “misgendering” as discriminatory acts, punishable by the Colorado Civil Rights Division. This could criminalize expressions of faith-based beliefs regarding gender.
Our friends at the Centennial Institute at Colorado Christian University warns that HB25-1312 “sets a dangerous precedent by punishing those who live out their biblical convictions.” They emphasize that “religious freedom doesn’t end when someone disagrees with Scripture.”
Time is of the essence to make our voices heard. This bill has already passed the Colorado House and is now under consideration in the Senate. We must act swiftly to protect our rights and the well-being of children across Colorado.
Here’s how you can help:
- Contact Your State Senator: Urge them to vote NO on HB25-1312. Express your concerns about the bill’s impact on parental rights and religious freedom. Find your elected officials here.
- Spread the Word: Share this information with your church community, friends, and family. Encourage them to take action.
- Pray: Seek God’s wisdom and intervention in our legislators’ lives so they will uphold values that protect families and faith. Consider joining others at the State Capitol on April 17 for a prayer vigil.
Let’s stand together in defense of our God-given rights and responsibilities.
Sincerely,
Joseph Kohm III
Director, Public Policy