The Sunrise Movement, a youth-led climate activist group, is embarking on a bold new chapter in its mission, expanding its focus to combat what it perceives as a rising tide of authoritarianism in the United States. This strategic pivot comes in response to the Trump administration’s aggressive stance against left-leaning organizations and its targeting of key funders that support progressive causes.
Aru Shiney-Ajay, the executive director of Sunrise, articulated the group’s position succinctly: “There is no serious way to think about stopping the climate crisis under a fascist government. The path to climate lies through getting rid of the authoritarian government we’re in.” This declaration underscores the urgency felt by many activists who believe that the fight against climate change cannot be separated from the broader struggle for democratic freedoms.
The timing of this announcement is significant. As President Trump dismantles green energy initiatives that were championed by the previous administration, including elements of the Green New Deal embedded in the 2022 Inflation Recovery Act, the stakes have never been higher. The Sunrise Movement, founded eight years ago, has recognized that its fight against climate change is inextricably linked to the political landscape. In a recent vote, a substantial 74% of delegates from over 100 local hubs endorsed the expanded mission, signaling a unified commitment to this dual struggle.
The backdrop to this shift is alarming. Trump recently directed cabinet officials to scrutinize nonprofits and their funding sources for alleged ties to terrorism, a move that has sent ripples of concern through activist circles. Although Sunrise has not received any formal notification of an investigation, the group is acutely aware of the potential threats it faces. The Justice Department has been urged to investigate the Open Society Foundations, a major funder of Sunrise, which contributed $2 million between 2019 and 2013. This scrutiny is fueled by a report from the right-leaning Capital Research Center, which has attempted to link the Sunrise Movement to extremist groups, a characterization that both the movement and its funders vehemently reject.
Shiney-Ajay contends that such narratives are part of a broader strategy to vilify and suppress dissent. “What I see is a desperate attempt to paint what is ultimately a large youth protest movement in negative terms,” she stated. This sentiment resonates with many who view the current political climate as increasingly hostile to progressive activism.
Historically, the Sunrise Movement has been known for its confrontational tactics aimed at holding elected officials accountable, particularly within the Democratic Party. The group gained national attention in 2018 when members staged a dramatic protest in then-Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s office, demanding action on climate change. However, as the political landscape has evolved, so too has the group’s approach. Their relationship with the Biden administration has been marked by both collaboration and contention, particularly in light of recent events in Gaza, which have led to disillusionment among some members.
The latest strategic shift is not merely a reaction to external pressures but also a proactive measure to engage with the complexities of the current political environment. Sunrise is already mobilizing students in Washington, D.C., to protest against military crackdowns and is considering initiatives to support local leaders standing up to federal overreach. The organization aims to provide anti-authoritarianism training to thousands, equipping young activists with the tools necessary to navigate and resist oppressive political structures.
While critics have suggested that Sunrise risks diluting its focus by addressing broader social issues, Shiney-Ajay remains steadfast in the group’s mission. “We are pretty clear that we are doing this so that we can get on track to win federal climate legislation,” she asserts. This clarity of purpose is essential as the movement seeks to balance immediate political challenges with its long-term goals of achieving meaningful climate action.
As the Sunrise Movement embarks on this new journey, it stands at the intersection of climate activism and the fight for democratic integrity. The road ahead may be fraught with challenges, but the resolve of its young leaders suggests a commitment to not only advocate for a sustainable future but also to safeguard the democratic principles that underpin it.
