Have you ever wondered what happens when the foundation of family starts to crumble? I was struck recently by a statistic that stopped me cold: in 1970, 40 percent of American households were married couples with kids under 18. Today, that number’s barely 17.8 percent. It’s not just a number—it’s a signal of a seismic shift, one that’s playing out in places like Colorado, where new legislation threatens to redefine what it means to be a parent. This isn’t just a policy debate; it’s a battle for the heart of family life.
Why Marriage Matters More Than Ever
The decline in traditional family structures isn’t just a nostalgic loss—it’s reshaping political and cultural landscapes. In Colorado, a proposed law dubbed the “Kelly Loving Act” could allow the state to remove children from parents who don’t affirm their child’s gender dysphoria. It’s a chilling move, one that’s passed both the state House and Senate. But why is this happening now, and why there? The answer lies in the numbers.
Colorado’s demographics tell a story. Only 14.4 percent of households in the state are married couples with kids, well below the national average. Fewer married parents mean fewer voices advocating for parental rights. It’s a simple equation: when family units weaken, the state steps in. And it’s not just Colorado—trends in marriage and fertility rates suggest this could be a preview of what’s coming nationwide.
The family is the first line of defense for children. When it weakens, the state fills the void.
– Family policy analyst
The Power of Married Parents
Let’s get real for a second. Married, biological parents are often the fiercest protectors of their kids. They’re the ones showing up at school board meetings, questioning policies, and fighting for their children’s well-being. But when marriage rates drop, so does this natural advocacy. In 1970, married households with kids were a political force. Today, their influence is shrinking, leaving families vulnerable to overreaching laws.
Take a look at the data. In Colorado, the low percentage of married households correlates with a political environment where radical legislation can gain traction. It’s not a coincidence. Fewer stable families mean fewer people pushing back against policies that undermine parental authority. And as marriage continues to decline, this trend could spread to other states.
- Married households in 1970: 40% of all U.S. households.
- Married households today: 17.8% nationally, 14.4% in Colorado.
- Impact: Weaker family advocacy opens the door to state control.
The Single-Parent Struggle
Single parents are heroes, no question. But the reality is, raising kids alone often leaves little room for political activism. Many single moms, for instance, are stretched thin, juggling work and childcare. They’re less likely to have the time or resources to challenge legislation like Colorado’s. And here’s the kicker: some of these parents, desperate for support, end up reliant on the very systems pushing these laws.
Research shows that nonresident fathers—often unmarried—tend to see their kids less frequently over time. Within two years, many visit less than once a week, some only monthly. This absence doesn’t just affect the kids; it weakens the family’s ability to stand together against external pressures. A divided family is easier to control.
A strong family unit is a child’s greatest shield. Without it, they’re exposed.
The Cultural Roots of the Crisis
So, how did we get here? It’s not just about numbers—it’s about culture. The decline in marriage isn’t happening in a vacuum. Young people today face a relationship landscape that’s, frankly, a mess. A recent study found that nearly half of young men have never asked a woman out. The average age of first marriage for women is now pushing past peak fertility. And let’s not ignore the elephant in the room: the average age of first exposure to pornography is 12.
These aren’t just personal issues; they’re societal ones. Our economy has gutted jobs where men once thrived, leaving many feeling purposeless. Schools have shifted to teaching styles that favor girls, leading to a 50 percent gap in college admissions favoring women. Media portrays men as bumbling idiots and women as flawless heroes. It’s no wonder relationships are struggling.
| Cultural Factor | Impact on Relationships |
| Delayed Marriage | Reduced fertility, weaker family bonds |
| Pornography Exposure | Distorted views of intimacy |
| Economic Shifts | Men’s declining workforce participation |
| Educational Bias | Boys disengaging from learning |
A Call for Renewal
Here’s where I get a bit personal. I believe men and women were made for each other—our differences are a feature, not a bug. But we’ve been sold a lie that pits us against one another. The solution isn’t to double down on division but to rebuild what’s been lost: healthy, committed relationships. And that starts with marriage.
Churches, in particular, have a role to play. Right now, 85 percent of American churches spend zero dollars on marriage or relationship ministries. That’s a travesty. Young people need communities where they can meet partners, learn to date with intention, and build lives together. They need to hear why pornography is a dead-end and why commitment is worth the effort.
- Create real-life communities for young people to connect.
- Teach intentional dating and discernment for marriage.
- Address cultural poisons like pornography head-on.
- Promote the joys of marriage through mentorship and support.
The Political Stakes
Let’s zoom out. History shows that family strength shapes societies. Ancient Rome’s fertility collapse weakened its armies, paving the way for its fall. Early Christianity’s emphasis on marriage and family helped rebuild the West. Today, we’re at a crossroads. If we don’t revive marriage culture, laws like Colorado’s could become the norm, not the exception.
Political activism is crucial—parents must fight these laws tooth and nail. But long-term, the battle is cultural. Strong marriages create strong families, and strong families create resilient communities. It’s not just about saving parental rights; it’s about saving the future.
Marriage isn’t just a personal choice; it’s a societal cornerstone.
– Cultural historian
What You Can Do
Feeling overwhelmed? Don’t be. Change starts small. If you’re married, invest in your relationship—date nights, open communication, the works. If you’re single, prioritize finding a partner who shares your values. And if you’re part of a church, push for programs that support young couples and families.
Here’s the truth: every strong marriage is a rebellion against a culture that’s trying to tear families apart. Every child raised in a stable home is a victory. And every community that values family life is a bulwark against state overreach.
Colorado’s legislation is a wake-up call. It’s not just about one state or one law—it’s about the future of family itself. I’ve seen firsthand how strong relationships can transform lives, and I believe we can turn this tide. But it starts with us—choosing commitment, building community, and standing firm for our kids. Are you in?
