The main reason we didn't fork is due to the costs associated with running a new blockchain, getting witnesses to pay for servers to keep the chain running, and other development costs.
The new token is strictly to change the distribution so that new users can actually feel like posting here is worth it. We have zero control over Steem and SBD, so there's nothing we can do to change that model. A new token was the only way.
And with this reply, all came into focus. Thank you for your replies!