Moms Against McDonald's

Public outrage in schools over nutrition because one blogger you don’t upset is Bettina Siegel. She’s awesome…and an attorney by trade.

5. Ronald in Schools. Imagine your kid walks into a school assembly, one that all kids are required to attend, only to be greeted by someone dressed up as the Marlboro Man. He’s there to teach your kids about community and leadership. You’d probably be shocked, right? Now, imagine a costume change: Instead of Marlboro Man it’s Ronald McDonald. Today, the consumption of foods and drinks high in fat, salt, or sugar sold by the Golden Arches are one of the leading causes of diet-related illnesses. Yet, Ronald is regularly touring elementary schools across the country. The "Giving Back with Ronald McDonald®" 40-minute "educational" program is free for schools and uses "music, magic, skits, and games to inspire elementary school kids to give back to the community and others"—starring Ronald, of course.

McDonald’s has been heavily criticized for not only it’s unhealthy food choices, but also it’s questionable marketing tactics. So, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that they’re at it again with a nationwide event called McTeacher’s Night.

We all know that red-haired clown. The one that has a painted on smile, yellow jumpsuit, and is pushing Happy Meals at our kids. Yes, I’m talking about the poster boy for marketing to children, Ronald McDonald.

Here at Mamavation, we believe in the power of moms. Our voices are strong, and we represent a $2.4 trillion market. Brands and corporations are aware of our influence and it’s starting to show. With Chipotle going GMO free and Panera announcing the removal of artificial ingredients, the fast food industry is among one of those adapting to the wants of us, the consumer.

The insult arose because Casey, like I am, is part of the #MomsNotLovinIt movement to stop fast food marketing to kids. When Ronald got his hipster makeover a couple of weeks ago, moms like us were not happy, because a clown with cargo pants marketing junk food to kids is still a clown marketing junk food to kids.

0914Yesterday, I read a statement at the McDonald’s Shareholder Meeting and spoke personally with Don Thompson, CEO of McDonalds. When I personally told Mr. Thompson about my childhood eating disorder and how as a child I associated Happy Meals with happiness, he laughed at me. He said "Happy Meals can’t give you an eating disorder my dear."

A report came out about McDonalds and their corporate giving this morning. Bottom line: They’ve been somewhat misleading with their role as sole Creator of Ronald McDonald Charities. Yes, the same charity that provides housing and shelter to families accompanying sick children in the hospital.