Personhood Amendment reboot Q&A with Kristi Burton Brown, face of original 2008 campaign
The so-called Personhood Amendment, which holds that the term "person" applies to humans from their biological starting point, failed in Colorado in 2008 and 2010 -- but last week, organizers filed new language with the goal of putting the measure on the 2012 ballot. What will be different this time around? To find out, we contacted Kristi Burton Brown, the face of the 2008 amendment, who's deeply involved this time around.
Kristi Burton Brown.
Here's a Q&A with Brown, conducted via e-mail.
Westword (Michael Roberts): You were at the center of the 2008 campaign, but in 2010, you played less of a public role. You appear to be stepping back into the spotlight this year. Is that the case? And if so, why did you decide to do so?
Kristi Burton Brown: During the 2010 campaign, I got married, finished law school, passed the Bar, and had a baby. So, while I supported that campaign, you could say I was a little busy =). This year, I, together with Gualberto Garcia Jones, wrote the new language. I'm also planning to serve on the Steering Committee as a Legal Advisor. I will certainly be available to debate and talk to the media throughout the campaign. I want to be a part of the 2010 campaign because protecting innocent life is an issue close to my heart and I love speaking the truth publicly so that others can make the choice for life as well.
Kristi Burton Brown circa 2008.
WW: The amendment didn't garner a great deal more support in 2010 than in 2008. Why do you think it will be more successful in 2012?
KBB: According to the numbers that have been crunched, Gualberto Garcia Jones informs me that the Personhood Amendment gained 50,000 new votes in 2010... Every time truth is put before the voters, more of them are persuaded. I would point to the issue of women's suffrage as an example. In South Dakota, women's right to vote was on the ballot seven times before they succeeded in winning equal rights for all people. Winning the equal right to life for all persons is our goal here, and I believe the people of Colorado will increasingly want to protect all people.
WW: The failure of a Personhood Amendment in Mississippi has been portrayed by progressive commentators as proof that it won't succeed anywhere. Is that a logical fallacy in your viewpoint? if so, why?
KBB: I don't personally believe that Mississippi has the corner on pro-life people. While Mississippians, along with many Southerners, are statistically the most pro-life, I think a victory on Personhood simply requires people who are willing to choose to protect every person, regardless of age, level of development, or status. That could happen anywhere in America, including in Colorado. Commentators often neglect to believe in the power of truth to change people's minds and hearts. They forget about the good hearts of all Americans who want to defend innocent life.
Page down to continue reading the Kristi Burton Brown Q&A.
Write Comment
Email to Friend
Print Article
