Charlotte Civil Rights Attorney James Ferguson II Dies at 82, Pioneered School Desegregation Nationwide

James Ferguson II, a pioneering civil rights attorney from Asheville and Charlotte, passed away at age 82. He co-founded North Carolina's first interracial law firm and played a key role in landmark cases, including Swann v. Charlotte-Mecklenburg Board of Education, which led to the nationwide use of busing to desegregate schools. Ferguson’s career began with activism as a student, leading peaceful protests that helped desegregate public spaces in Asheville before he pursued law to challenge systemic racial injustices. Beyond the Swann case, he defended the Wilmington 10 and used the Racial Justice Act to reduce death penalty sentences, cementing his lifelong commitment to racial justice. His work earned widespread respect and left a lasting impact on civil rights law and his community, inspiring future generations. Leaders and colleagues remember him as a tireless advocate, mentor, and champion for justice.