Charlotte, NC, July 22, 2025
News Summary
James Ferguson II, a distinguished civil rights attorney, passed away recently, leaving behind a remarkable legacy in the fight for education equity and desegregation. His pioneering legal work included a landmark case against the Charlotte-Mecklenburg School Board and co-founding North Carolina’s first interracial law firm. Ferguson’s contributions extended internationally, influencing legal education globally. Community leaders recognized his efforts and deep impact on civil rights. His memory will endure in the lives he touched and in the continued pursuit of justice.
Charlotte – James Ferguson II, a prominent civil rights attorney from Charlotte, passed away on July 21, 2025, at the age of 82. His contributions to the civil rights movement, particularly in the field of education, have left an indelible mark on the community.
Ferguson was born in Asheville, North Carolina, in 1942, during the Jim Crow era. His upbringing in a racially segregated society inspired him to become a civil rights attorney after witnessing the injustices prevalent at the time, particularly influenced by the Greensboro sit-ins of the early 1960s.
One of Ferguson’s most notable achievements occurred in 1969 when he represented parents in a historic lawsuit against the Charlotte-Mecklenburg School Board. The lawsuit contended that the Board was violating the Constitution by not properly integrating schools. This pivotal case culminated in a landmark ruling that established a busing plan for school desegregation, a decision that was ultimately upheld by the Supreme Court in 1971.
Beyond this groundbreaking case, Ferguson also co-founded North Carolina’s first interracial law firm, where he served as president for an impressive 40 years. His legal expertise extended to various other high-profile cases, including representation for former Charlotte Mayor Patrick Cannon in federal corruption charges in 2014. Additionally, Ferguson played a crucial role in helping free members of the Wilmington 10, who had been wrongfully convicted during tumultuous school desegregation riots.
Ferguson’s influence reached far beyond North Carolina; he co-founded South Africa’s first Trial Advocacy Program during the apartheid era, contributing to the global fight for justice and equality. His dedication to legal education also saw him teaching trial advocacy in England and across the United States.
In recognition of his significant contributions, community leaders, including Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles and North Carolina Governor Josh Stein, expressed their condolences upon learning of Ferguson’s passing. His legacy is characterized by a passion for equality, advocacy against racial bias, and a commitment to fostering political and social integration. Ferguson’s work with North Carolina’s Racial Justice Act challenged death penalty sentences based on racial bias, further showcasing his commitment to justice for marginalized communities.
Jocelyn Nolley, chairperson of the Black Political Caucus of Charlotte-Mecklenburg, acknowledged Ferguson as a towering figure in civil rights history, highlighting the impact he made on many local leaders and attorneys. Charlotte historian Pamela Grundy noted that the effects of the ruling he helped establish resonate today in ongoing discussions about equity in education.
Ferguson is survived by three children, four grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. He is remembered not only as a passionate advocate for civil rights but also as a dedicated father and community pillar who successfully balanced a demanding career with family life. Details regarding memorial services and celebrations of Ferguson’s life will be announced in the coming days.
FAQ Section
Who was James Ferguson II?
James Ferguson II was a prominent civil rights attorney from Charlotte, known for his role in the desegregation of schools in North Carolina during the late 1960s.
What notable case did Ferguson work on?
Ferguson represented parents in a landmark lawsuit against the Charlotte-Mecklenburg School Board, which led to a Supreme Court ruling upheld in 1971 for school desegregation.
What other contributions did Ferguson make beyond North Carolina?
Ferguson co-founded South Africa’s first Trial Advocacy Program during apartheid and taught trial advocacy in various countries.
How did community leaders react to his passing?
Local leaders, including the mayor and governor, expressed condolences, recognizing Ferguson’s significant impact on civil rights and the community.
Key Features of James Ferguson II’s Legacy
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Birth Year | 1942 |
| Death Date | July 21, 2025 |
| Major Contribution | Desegregation of Charlotte schools |
| Historic Lawsuit Year | 1969 |
| Interracial Law Firm Co-founder | Yes |
| High-profile Cases | Representation of Patrick Cannon |
| Global Advocacy | Co-founded Trial Advocacy Program in South Africa |
| Survived By | Three children, four grandchildren, two great-grandchildren |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Legacy of Civil Rights Attorney James Ferguson II
Additional Resources
- WSOC TV
- Charlotte Observer
- WCNC
- HBCU Gameday
- News Observer
- Wikipedia: Civil Rights
- Google Search: James Ferguson II Civil Rights
- Google Scholar: James Ferguson II
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Civil Rights
- Google News: James Ferguson II
Author: HERE Charlotte
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