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Civil Rights Watchdog Labels Right-Wing Moms for Liberty Group 'Anti-Government Extremist'

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Nimrah Khatoon
New Update
A right-wing “parents’ rights” group named Moms for Liberty listed as ‘anti-government’.
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Image Credit: Giorgio Viera/Getty Images

Rise of Locally Driven Extremism in American Schools 

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The Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) has released its latest review of hate groups in America, designating a right-wing "parents' rights" organization as an "anti-government extremist" group. The report highlights the concerning trend of schools becoming platforms for locally driven extremist activity, with groups like Moms for Liberty leading efforts to gain power through school boards to undermine public education and curtail discussions on race, racism, LGBT+ rights, and gender and sexuality. 

According to Susan Corke, Director of the SPLC's Intelligence Project, hate and anti-government extremist groups are deliberately orchestrating public displays of hatred to intimidate vulnerable communities and minority groups, particularly the LGBT+ community. The report documents the activities of 1,225 active extremist groups across the United States. 

Influence, Endorsements, and Legislative Agenda 

Moms for Liberty has emerged as a significant force within this movement, garnering support from influential figures such as Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and other Republican officials. The group claims a membership of 100,000 people across 42 states, with over 250 chapters. In the previous year's elections, Governor DeSantis made unprecedented endorsements by actively involving himself in local school board races and endorsing candidates aligned with Moms for Liberty and other far-right groups. Simultaneously, Moms for Liberty members supported a slate of legislative priorities, aligning themselves with the DeSantis administration's agenda. 

Moms for Liberty has drawn controversy for labeling teachers' unions as "terrorist organizations," offering rewards for reporting teachers discussing "divisive topics," attacking The Trevor Project for its support of at-risk LGBT+ youth, initiating numerous challenges to books, and expanding its influence to state legislatures nationwide.

US Anti Government Education System Southern Poverty Law Center Right-Wing Extremism Parents' Rights
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