By Rocky Mountain Voice Staff
A coalition of pastors, parents, and constitutional advocates will gather Thursday on the West Steps of the Colorado State Capitol to oppose HB25-1312, the controversial “Kelly Loving Act” that critics say represents a direct attack on parental rights, religious liberty, and free speech.
The event—organized by Fight 1312, a Colorado-based grassroots movement—will begin with a rally and prayer walk at 1:00 PM, followed by a press conference at 2:30 PM featuring local faith leaders and conservative advocates, including former Trump appointee William Wolfe.
“HB25-1312 is an attack on parental rights, free speech, and the ability of families to raise their children according to their values,” said Pastor J. Chase Davis, one of the event organizers and Lead Pastor of The Well Church in Boulder.
What Is HB25-1312?
Dubbed the “Kelly Loving Act,” the bill passed the Colorado House earlier this month and is now advancing in the Senate. Among other provisions, the legislation:
- Defines “coercive control” in custody cases to include “deadnaming” or “misgendering” a child
- Labels these acts as discrimination under Colorado’s Anti-Discrimination Act
- Prohibits Colorado courts from enforcing laws from other states that restrict access to gender-affirming care
Supporters claim the bill protects vulnerable youth. But opponents—including legal scholars, pastors, and parent advocates—warn it could criminalize parents for disagreeing with their children on gender identity, compel speech, and punish those who hold faith-based or scientific beliefs about sex and gender.
The rally is being led by a group of Colorado pastors who co-authored a public letter to the state’s largest churches, urging them to speak out against HB25-1312. The letter, available on fight1312.com, emphasizes the need to “stand for God’s truth and the rights of the people.”
The event is being organized by a coalition of Colorado pastors, including Pastor J. Chase Davis and Pastor Matt Patrick of The Well Church in Boulder, Pastor Chris Goble of Ridgeline Community Church in Castle Rock, and Pastor Matt Johnson of BRAVE Church in Englewood.
The letter encourages Colorado’s Christian community to mobilize and defend parental authority and religious conscience before the bill becomes law.
“We’re rallying and praying as a community to protect our children and urge Colorado’s leaders to stop this dangerous bill,” Davis said.
The rally is the latest flashpoint in a growing state—and national—debate over parental rights, gender ideology, and government overreach in family life. Conservative leaders have increasingly sounded the alarm about Colorado’s legislative direction, with HB25-1312 being described by some as “the most anti-parent bill in the country.”
According to organizers, peaceful protestors are encouraged to bring signs, flags, and prayerful hearts.
Event Details:
📍 Where: West Steps, Colorado State Capitol (200 E Colfax Ave, Denver)
📆 When: Thursday, April 17, 2025
🕐 Time: Rally and Prayer Walk – 1:00 PM | Press Conference – 2:30 PM
🎤 Speakers: Pastors from across Colorado, guest advocates including William Wolfe
Attendees are encouraged to follow state guidelines for public gatherings. For more information or media inquiries, visit fight1312.com or contact organizer Scott Shamblin at [email protected].