A Free and Prosperous America—the Best Opportunity for Pursuing Your Dreams
Who Are We
Frederick Douglass' writings and speeches about economic prosperity, liberty, school choice, science, free speech, religious freedom, work ethic, entrepreneurship, the limited power of government and more, are just as compelling and necessary today as they were over 100 years ago. We refer to these tenets of liberty as Douglass' Life-Empowering Values™ because these are the core principles Douglass passionately embraced—enabling him to rise from slavery to prosperity. Worth $300,000 at the time of his death in 1895, Frederick Douglass built a fortune of more than 20 million dollars in today's money, through speaking fees, book royalties, key presidential appointments and personal investments.
At The Douglass Initiative (TDI), we believe Douglass' impactful liberty concepts can help us to: (1) Better our communities; and (2) Advance the cause of a free and prosperous America.
TDI is inspiring and mentoring the next generation of scientists and innovators (PreK to PhD) by introducing the scientific method in the early years—targeting disadvantaged students. We are developing a sustainable pipeline of technical talent to ensure the United States' ranking as a global leader in the fields of science and technology.
TDI is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit, non-partisan, educational organization.
Our Mission
- Provide STEM education and advocacy for disadvantaged youth, with a targeted focus given to children with special needs and children of an incarcerated parent (Pre-K to PhD).
- Improve the lives of the disadvantaged by leveraging the Life-Empowering Values of Frederick Douglass
- Ensure the U.S. is a global leader in the fields of science & technology
Our Vision
Remove barriers preventing Americans from pursuing their dreams.
Our Team
Our team of diversity engagement experts know what it takes to build and implement a successful outreach program. Together, we ensure our clients are empowered to win the narrative and overcome the negative perceptions that Conservatives face.
Dr. Karnie Smith, Sr.
VP of Faith-Based Outreach
Dr. Smith is the vice president of faith-based outreach where he oversees the critical role in reaching out to spiritual leaders and educating them about Frederick Douglass' Life-Empowering Values that will improve the lives of their congregants and community. Karnie holds degrees in Electrical Engineering from Alabama A & M University, a Master of Divinity from Vanderbilt Divinity School, and a Doctor of Ministry from United Theological Seminary.
Tammie Taylor
Alabama State Director
Carl Baxter
Florida State Director
A longtime Florida Republican, Carl has always been active in civil rights issues and an advocate for many including minorities, women and as well as struggling families and the undeserved. A seasoned professional, Carl serves as the Florida State Director for KCarl, Inc., responsible for providing diversity engagement consultation across the entire state and interfacing with conservative organizations, decision-makers, and government officials.
