Donald L. Hollowell

Donald L. Hollowell

Donald Lee Hollowell (December 19, 1917 – December 27, 2004) was a prominent American civil rights attorney and activist. He is best known for his role in the desegregation of the University of Georgia and his work in various landmark civil rights cases.

Early Life and Education

Donald L. Hollowell was born in Wichita, Kansas. He grew up in a segregated America, which profoundly influenced his later work as a civil rights attorney. Hollowell attended Lane College in Jackson, Tennessee, where he earned his undergraduate degree. He later served in the United States Army during World War II, where he experienced racial discrimination firsthand.

After the war, Hollowell used the G.I. Bill to attend Loyola University Chicago School of Law, where he earned his law degree. His education and experiences equipped him with the tools to fight against racial injustice.

Legal Career

Hollowell established his law practice in Atlanta, Georgia, where he became a key figure in the civil rights movement. He worked closely with other civil rights leaders, including Martin Luther King Jr. and Ralph Abernathy.

Desegregation of the University of Georgia

One of Hollowell's most notable achievements was his role in the desegregation of the University of Georgia. In 1961, he represented Charlayne Hunter-Gault and Hamilton E. Holmes, two African American students who were denied admission to the university based on their race. Hollowell's legal expertise and determination led to a court order that allowed Hunter and Holmes to enroll, marking a significant victory in the fight for educational equality.

Other Landmark Cases

Hollowell also played a crucial role in other civil rights cases, including the defense of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. during his imprisonment in Georgia. Hollowell's legal work helped secure King's release, which was a pivotal moment in the civil rights movement.

Later Life and Legacy

In 1966, Hollowell was appointed as the regional director of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) in Atlanta, where he continued to advocate for equal rights and opportunities.

Hollowell's contributions to civil rights have been recognized through various honors and awards. His legacy is preserved through the Donald L. Hollowell Parkway in Atlanta, named in his honor.

Death

Donald L. Hollowell passed away on December 27, 2004, leaving behind a legacy of courage and commitment to justice.

References

• "Donald L. Hollowell: Civil Rights Attorney and Activist." The New Georgia Encyclopedia.
• "The Legacy of Donald L. Hollowell." The Atlanta Journal-Constitution.

External Links

• [Donald L. Hollowell Biography at The New Georgia Encyclopedia](https://www.georgiaencyclopedia.org/articles/history-archaeology/donald-l-hollowell-1917-2004/)