Left-wing group accused of ‘exploiting’ kids for climate crusade

Parental watchdog group American Parents Coalition has raised concerns about a left-wing climate advocacy group that they believe is targeting children. In a recent report released through APC’s parental notification system, known as “The Lookout,” the watchdog group claims that Our Children’s Trust (OCT) is using emotional manipulation tactics to push its climate agenda.

The report highlights OCT’s use of youth plaintiffs in lawsuits, as well as curriculum materials that aim to indoctrinate children with specific beliefs about the environment. APC also points to OCT’s promotion of social media posts and research studies that discuss children’s climate-related stress, which the watchdog group finds problematic.

APC Executive Director Alleigh Marré expressed her concerns about OCT, stating, “The left’s obsession with undermining parental authority and targeting young minds has now entered the climate movement.” She urged parents to be cautious and not trust OCT’s messaging.

One of the lawsuits filed by OCT on behalf of young people challenges the president’s executive orders related to the fossil fuel industry and environmental regulations. The lawsuit argues that the plaintiffs, who were born into a destabilized climate system, will suffer harm as a result of increased greenhouse gas emissions. APC believes that OCT is using children as pawns in their legal battles.

In addition to using children as plaintiffs, OCT also provides educational resources and course materials to schools that promote the idea of climate-related stress and anxiety in young people. APC highlighted a classroom exercise that suggests parents are not adequately protecting their children from the impacts of climate change.

APC also criticized OCT’s use of social media and research to push the narrative that their lawsuits are necessary for addressing climate change. The watchdog group believes that OCT is spreading fear and anxiety among children in an effort to recruit them for their activist activities.

Marré emphasized the negative impact of exposing children to extremist ideologies, stating that it hinders their ability to think critically and independently. She called for a more balanced and educational approach to discussing climate change with children.

In response to APC’s allegations, OCT defended its work, stating that they provide young people with the education and tools to understand the impact of climate change on their lives. They argued that youth are already aware of the challenges they face and choose to pursue legal action to protect their rights to life, safety, and health.

OCT rejected the notion that they manipulate young people or manufacture climate anxiety, emphasizing that their work is grounded in science, constitutional rights, and civic engagement. They pointed to the real climate-related disasters that children are experiencing as evidence of the urgent need for action.

Ultimately, the debate between APC and OCT highlights the complex and contentious nature of climate advocacy, especially when it comes to involving children in legal and activist efforts. Parents are urged to be vigilant and engage in open discussions with their children about climate change, ensuring that they are informed and empowered to make their own decisions about environmental issues.