Moms for Liberty, a ‘parental rights’ nonprofit, reported a substantial increase in its total revenue for 2022, reaching $2.1 million. This marks a significant leap from its $370,000 revenue in the previous year, largely fueled by contributions from two anonymous megadonors, as revealed in a recent tax filing provided to The Associated Press.
Rapid Growth and Political Connections
Since its inception in 2021, Moms for Liberty has experienced rapid nationwide growth, including high-profile events with leading conservative groups and Republican political candidates. The group’s advocacy, which primarily targets race and LGBTQ+ identity references in school curriculums, has garnered strong support from certain conservative sectors while simultaneously facing criticism from grassroots organizations and anti-hate groups for its perceived extremist stance and potential harm to minority and LGBTQ+ students.
Financial Breakdown and Support
The disclosed tax filing shows that a major portion of the group’s 2022 revenue, nearly $2 million, was sourced from contributions and grants. Additionally, the organization earned income through educational activities and merchandise sales. Notably, prominent conservative entities such as the Heritage Foundation and the Leadership Institute have been linked to Moms for Liberty through financial support, including a $25,000 award from the Heritage Foundation.
Large Contributions and Grassroots Involvement
The tax filing also highlights two substantial donations received by Moms for Liberty in 2022, including one of $1 million and another of $500,000. While Moms for Liberty operates as a 501(c)4 nonprofit, exempting it from disclosing donor identities, the large contributions have led to further scrutiny of its operations and funding sources. Maurice Cunningham, a former political science professor, views these contributions as indicative of a “top-down” attack on public education.
Response from Moms for Liberty
Moms for Liberty spokesperson Marleigh Kerr defended the organization, emphasizing its vast base of unpaid members and arguing against the notion of a centralized, top-down approach. Kerr also noted that in 2022, Moms for Liberty had a substantial number of small donors.
Compensation and Additional Revenues
The tax filing details compensation for three officers of the nonprofit, including co-founders Tina Descovich and Tiffany Justice, with reported compensations ranging from approximately $44,000 to just over $50,000. Additionally, a separate tax filing for Moms for Liberty’s Florida-based foundation revealed additional revenues, including a notable donation from Julie Fancelli, a known Republican donor linked to the Jan. 6 “Stop the Steal” rally.
This financial report sheds light on the scale and nature of support for Moms for Liberty, reflecting the deepening political and cultural divides in the United States, particularly around education and parental rights.