Richmond, VA– The Wilberforce Institute, a pro-liberty and anti-cruelty think tank, officially launched Monday. The Wilberforce Institute consists of a liberty-minded, pro-free market, and intellectually diverse coalition working for public policy solutions that protect animals from cruelty and suffering — especially when promulgated by the federal government on the American taxpayer’s dime.
Recognizing the long tradition of love for animals and support for animal protection among conservatives and libertarians, the Wilberforce Institute will provide a big tent ideological home for those alienated by the politics of existing organizations in this space. The Wilberforce Institute seeks free market and values-driven solutions to the most intractable problems facing humans and animals.
“There is a growing understanding among the political right that the regulatory state swamp is failing to serve and further our interests, and failing to protect animals,” said Liam Gray, the Wilberforce Institute’s Executive Director. “The Wilberforce Institute represents an opportunity for individuals who believe in liberty- and who recognize the moral imperative and responsibility that comes with our dominion over God’s creatures- to craft and advance policies that better reflect our unique American character.”
“We’re elated to launch this new endeavor that will focus on conservative values in the animal welfare and husbandry spaces to better serve American consumers and producers alike,” said the Wilberforce Institute Board Chairman Marty Irby, CEO at Capitol South, LLC and Competitive Markets Action who was named one of The Hill’s Top Lobbyists in 2019-20-21 and ‘23. “I’m proud to be a part of such an outstanding team with the leadership of Liam Gray, and expect we will have a tremendous impact in our nation’s capital and abroad.”