In reviewing old Party documents, I came across an interesting fact: we used to be called the Colorado Libertarian Party. I wondered, why and when did we change our name? Thanks to David Aitken, this is no longer a mystery. Apparently, and as discussed in the June 1994 newsletter, the State of Colorado was listing partisan candidates on the ballot by the first two words in their Party’s name, and thus, our candidates would be listed as “Colorado Libertarian.” In order to feature the words “Libertarian Party,” the Party changed its name to the Libertarian Party of Colorado. The Board remains as dedicated as ever to making sure that the words “Libertarian Party” get in front of as many people as possible, as our predecessors went so far as to change our name to make sure they are seen. And remember the legacy of James Libertarian Burns:
James Libertarian Burns was active with the Libertarian Party of Nevada from as early as 1973. The LP was so small then that the Libertarian Party wasn’t allowed on the Nevada ballot. So, Mr. Burns legally changed his middle name to “Libertarian” and ran as a Republican–hence, the word “Libertarian” appeared on the ballot.
Use the words “Libertarian Party” proudly. People have sacrificed a great deal to make sure you could.
By Caryn Ann Harlos
Communications Director, Libertarian Party of Colorado; Region 1 Representative, Libertarian National Committee; Colorado State Coordinator, Libertarian Party Radical Caucus
