A significant funding link between Hillary Clinton’s progressive organization and radical climate change activism has come to light.

Onward Together, founded by Clinton, has channeled at least $500,000 to the Climate Emergency Fund, known for backing disruptive environmental protests, as the Washington Examiner reports.

The organization was established by Clinton following her 2016 presidential campaign defeat. The organization's mission is to support emerging groups and leaders who promote progressive values and aim to defend democratic principles.

Financial Contributions to Climate Emergency Fund

Between April 2022 and March 2023, Onward Together's nonprofit advocacy arm disbursed $200,000 to the Climate Emergency Fund (CEF). This funding is part of a larger sum that totals at least $500,000, when including a prior fiscal year grant of $300,000.

The CEF is known for funding activist groups that engage in eye-catching protests. Among these are Just Stop Oil and Declare Emergency, both members of the A22 Network.

These groups have been involved in high-profile incidents, such as a 2022 event in which Just Stop Oil activists splattered tomato soup on a Van Gogh painting in London. Similarly, Declare Emergency activists faced charges related to vandalizing the U.S. Constitution display at the National Archives in March 2024.

Public and Political Reactions to Funding

The substantial grants to CEF have sparked a wave of concern and calls for scrutiny. Critics argue that these funds may be supporting activities that compromise public safety and disrupt normal social and political processes.

Daniel Turner, founder and executive director of Power the Future, emphasized the potential dangers. “Anyone who cares about public safety and preventing vandalism should be deeply concerned that money connected to Hillary Clinton is propping up these radicalized eco activists,” he stated.

Turner also suggested that Congress should look into the "shady origins and dastardly flow of this tainted Clinton cash," highlighting the need for a thorough investigation into the financial flows and their impact.

Broader Support Base for Climate Emergency Fund

CEF not only receives support from Onward Together but also benefits from contributions from various notable individuals. Supporters include Rory Kennedy, Adam McKay, Jeremy Strong, Abigail Disney, and Aileen Getty, who hails from a family with significant interests in the petroleum industry.

This eclectic mix of donors underscores the broad appeal of CEF’s mission, despite the controversy surrounding the methods of some groups it supports.

In addition to individual donations, a political action committee affiliated with Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) directed $9,000 to CEF in 2021, indicating political backing from certain sectors of the Democratic Party.

Impact of Funding on Political and Environmental Advocacy

Onward Together's significant donation to CEF was the largest among several grants it disbursed in its most recent fiscal year, which included smaller amounts ranging from $25,000 to $50,000 to various organizations such as the Voter Participation Center and NextGen America.

The association between political advocacy and financial support for environmental causes is becoming an increasingly scrutinized element of modern politics. As the debate continues, the focus remains on the role of funding in shaping both political discourse and direct action in the realm of climate change advocacy.

Looking Forward: Upcoming Events and Initiatives

Amid ongoing debates about funding and tactics, CEF-supported groups are planning further actions. Climate Defiance, another group funded by CEF, is organizing a one-year anniversary event in Washington, D.C., which will include participation from progressive representatives.

This event aims to continue drawing attention to climate issues while showcasing the ongoing commitment of activist groups to push for dramatic changes in environmental policy and awareness.

The engagement of political figures in these events underscores the intersection of environmental activism and political activism, highlighting the complex dynamics at play.

Conclusion: Reassessing the Landscape of Environmental Activism

In summary, the financial ties between Onward Together and the Climate Emergency Fund have illuminated a complex web of support for radical climate activism. This relationship raises questions about the influence of political figures and donors in shaping public policy and activism strategies.

As scrutiny increases, the impact of these donations on both the political landscape and public safety continues to be a point of significant debate and concern.

With ongoing investigations and public discourse, the future of such funding and its role in environmental and political activism remains a critical area of focus.