The Sunrise Movement is founded as a youth-led climate action organization focused on political advocacy and grassroots organizing. Founded by activists including Evan Weber and Varshini Prakash, the movement emerges from years of planning and discussion among climate activists seeking more direct action approaches.

The organization adopts 11 core principles rooted in social justice and grassroots activism, emphasizing community leadership, non-violent action, and solidarity with other social movements. Initial goals focus on electing renewable energy proponents in the 2018 midterm elections.

The movement gains national prominence in November 2018 when over 100 youth activists occupy Nancy Pelosi’s congressional office, demanding action on climate change and support for a Green New Deal. This action catalyzes rapid growth from 15 to over 150 hubs nationwide within months.

By 2019, the organization’s budget increases from $850,000 to over$4 million, with approximately 20 paid staff and 13,000 volunteers. The movement becomes instrumental in elevating climate change as a political priority and advancing Green New Deal legislation.