From our Founder 
Pastor Derek Maurice Steele 

For many years, the Steele family had discussed the idea of establishing a living memorial to our father, grandfather, and now also great-grandfather. Today we announce the inception of the Charles Kenzie Steele Sr. Human Rights Institute, Inc. Preserving his legacy, means continuing his historic work, and ensuring his unyielding dedication of bringing fairness to all peoples did not die with him, but instead lives on. Put simply it is our duty.

This Institute will serve to pay homage to all the pioneers of the Civil Rights Movement including the foot soldiers, by recognizing their sacrifice and saluting their victories. Such as the passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, The Fair Housing Act of 1968, and bringing an end to the Jim Crow era. A monumental movement in American history. We must not allow the wins of the Civil Rights era to be expunged. My father always set out to do what some believed to be the impossible, and so we must do the same. My father believed if God was with you "whom shall I fear?"  He always knew his calling was to serve others. His preaching began at the young age of 15. Obedience to the Lord meant Justice and Righteousness was never up for debate.  Were he alive today, he would caution that each battle for justice be fought with civility, and nonviolence.  He would strongly encourage this institute be more about the manner in which he lived his life, than about him personally. This Institute though named for him, brings awareness to a time when a monumental movement in Tallahassee actually changed a city, and even America. More change and equality are still needed. We have come a mighty long way, but we still have so much farther to go.  

The C.K. Steele Human Rights Institute will be an incredible force, in the name of an incredible man. We will remain true to our vision, mission, and principles.  Equality for all and a better future for all.  ​