Grassroots Group Denied Presence at Alaska State Fair

A grassroots organization focused on parental rights faced rejection from participating in a state fair in Alaska. Moms for Liberty, a national conservative group, was labeled a ‘hate group’ by an activist referencing a controversial watchdog organization.

A request made by the Fairbanks chapter of Moms for Liberty was denied by the Tanana Valley State Fair board. The group sought to host a one-day booth at Alaska’s oldest state fair. Tiffany Justice, President of Moms For Liberty, defended the group’s mission as not extremist, emphasizing parental rights.

Gail McBride, leading the Fairbanks chapter, noted the rejection letter was received from the fair’s board on April 27. She expressed concerns about efforts to silence conservative voices in the community.

Scott Vance, Executive Director of the Tanana Valley State Fair Association (TVSFA), cited past instances of lack of decorum and antagonism from the group. The TVSFA reserves the right to deny applications that might disrupt or compromise the fair’s family-friendly environment.

The Fairbanks chapter aimed to promote their message by securing a booth at the annual gathering, known for its family events and local crafts. McBride attended a board meeting in April to counter misinformation about the group. Despite her efforts, David Leslie, a former fair employee, objected to their presence, labeling Moms For Liberty as ‘anti-government and extremist,’ based on the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) designation.

Leslie highlighted their opposition to LGBT communities, citing deaths connected to hate. The SPLC’s report categorized Moms For Liberty as an extremist group in 2022.

Allegations against the SPLC include charges of fraud and conspiracy. Justice mentioned considering legal actions against the rejection and stressed ongoing issues faced by the group nationwide.

Vance emphasized TVSFA’s mission for inclusivity but reiterated the mismatch with the chapter’s reputation. The fair’s decisions are final and made by the Executive Director.

Moms For Liberty’s application rejection reflects broader controversies involving the SPLC’s influence in identifying hate groups.