1. Do they or do they not meet every definition of archery equipment? Please post something, other than your opinion, that says different.
The definition of a bow varies from state to state regulations on game and fish and how they're written. However, crossbows are steeped in archery history, they've been "bows" far longer than compounds and per m-w.com, two limbs generating the energy that proels an arrow .... that's a bow
2. Are crossbows, having their origins some 2400 years ago, primitive weapons? Remember that compounds are primitive weapons in most states that have an actual "primitive weapons" season.
again, "primitive" rules and regs can change every year. Maryland found that out along with many other states and more to come.
3. Are your traditions my traditions and are my traditions your traditions? I hope not.
traditions are irrelevant, the G&F of your state decides what's legal in what seasons and what isn't, and hopefully they're making their decisions based on good solid facts and maximizing hunting opportunities with minimal impact to the herds
4. Are hunter numbers declining across the country or not?
they are overall, I'm not sure on bowhunting numbers though
I use to be an anti-crossbows, foaming at the mouth zealot too until someone asked me what reasons I had to base that on.