Gilbert R. Mason

Dr Gilbert R Mason Sr

Gilbert R. Mason
Born	October 7, 1928 Jackson, Mississippi, U.S.
Died	July 8, 2006 Biloxi, Mississippi, U.S.
Nationality	American
Occupation	Physician, civil rights activist
Known for	Biloxi wade-ins

Gilbert Rutledge Mason Sr. (October 7, 1928 – July 8, 2006) was an American physician and civil rights activist known for his role in organizing the Biloxi wade-ins, a series of protests against the segregation of public beaches on the Mississippi Gulf Coast.

Early life and education

Mason was born in Jackson, Mississippi, and grew up in a segregated society. He attended Tougaloo College and later earned his medical degree from Howard University College of Medicine in Washington, D.C..

Medical career

After completing his medical training, Mason moved to Biloxi, Mississippi, where he established a private medical practice. He became a respected physician in the community, known for his dedication to providing care to underserved populations.

Civil rights activism

Mason is best known for his leadership in the Biloxi wade-ins, which began in 1959. These protests were aimed at desegregating the public beaches in Biloxi, which were reserved for white people only. The first wade-in took place on May 14, 1959, and was met with violent resistance from local authorities and white residents. Despite the opposition, Mason continued to organize wade-ins over the next several years, drawing national attention to the issue of beach segregation.

In addition to the wade-ins, Mason was involved in other civil rights activities, including voter registration drives and efforts to desegregate local schools and public facilities. He worked closely with other civil rights leaders, including Medgar Evers and Martin Luther King Jr..

Legacy

Mason's efforts were instrumental in the eventual desegregation of public beaches in Biloxi and contributed to the broader civil rights movement in Mississippi. He is remembered as a courageous and dedicated advocate for equality and justice.

Personal life

Mason was married and had children. He continued to practice medicine in Biloxi until his retirement. He passed away on July 8, 2006, in Biloxi.

See also

• Civil rights movement
• Segregation in the United States
• Medgar Evers
• Martin Luther King Jr.

External links

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