I think the same goes for learning assembly before learning C. A simple assembly-based computer [1] should be the first programming target in every "introduction to programming" class. After that, C becomes obvious and those who struggle with the fundamntals can be guided to more appropriate careers instead of dumbing down the tools everyone uses.
[0] https://www.instructables.com/CARDIAC-CARDboard-Illustrative...
I know it's probably baseless, but I can't shake the feeling that people who learn modern languages before learning C are just making their own lives harder.