William G. Anderson | |
|---|---|
| Born | (1927-12-12)December 12, 1927 (age 97) |
| Nationality | American |
| Education | Alabama State University Des Moines University |
| Occupation(s) | Physician,Surgeon |
| Known for | Albany Movement |
William G. AndersonD.O. (born December 12, 1927) is an Americansurgeon who was the firstAfrican-American to become a member of theBoard of Trustees of theAmerican Osteopathic Association (AOA) for twenty years where he also served as president.[1][2] He was best known for his role in theAlbany Movement, which Anderson led, was formed by localactivists inAlbany, Georgia in 1961.[3]
| External videos | |
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 “Interview with Dr. William G. Anderson” conducted in 1985 for theEyes on the Prize documentary in which he discusses the Albany Movement, the involvement of Dr. King and SCLC, and the law-enforcement tactics of Chief Laurie Pritchett. |
Anderson was born inAmericus, Georgia, on December 12, 1927, to John D. Anderson and Emma Gilchrist Anderson. After obtaining an undergraduate degree from Alabama State College for Negroes (nowAlabama State University) in 1949, Anderson attendedDes Moines University (DMU) inDes Moines, Iowa, and received hismedical degree fromDMU College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Anderson served as associate dean of theKirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine, a clinical professor ofosteopathic surgical specialties atMichigan State University's College of Osteopathic Medicine and was responsible for the development of osteopathic medical education programs for students, interns, and residents at Oakland General, Detroit Riverview, Macomb and St. John Hospitals (all of which would late merge intoSt. John Providence Health System) as well Michigan Osteopathic Medical Center.
Anderson is perhaps best known for his work in theCivil Rights Movement. In 1957, after completing his residency inFlint, Michigan, Anderson relocated toAlbany, Georgia, to start his practice. However, because of the stringent segregationist policies in place and racist attitudes of local townsfolk, Anderson was prevented from treating patients. Anderson decided to respond to this unjust resistance by becoming the founder and first president of theAlbany Movement.
Anderson took part in hundreds of civil rights marches and worked closely withMartin Luther King Jr. He went to prison in December 1961, sent back to his hometown, on charges of an unlawful march, that in the view of him, King and others was a walk to hold prayers at city hall in Albany.[4]
Anderson is also a member ofPhysicians for Social Responsibility.
As of 2010, Anderson is the member of theboard of directors at theVirginia campus of VCOM, theEdward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine.[5] He is also a faculty member at the Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine, which hosts an annual civil rights lecture series in his name.[6]
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