Franklin H. Williams facts for kids

Franklin Hall Williams (born October 22, 1917 – died May 20, 1990) was an important American lawyer and a champion for civil rights. He worked to make sure all people were treated fairly. He helped the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) in many court cases across the southern United States.

Williams also worked for the government and led a group that helped students from Africa and Native American communities get an education. He dedicated his life to fighting for equality and helping others.

Franklin Williams' Early Life and Education

Franklin Williams was born in Flushing, Queens, a part of New York City. He went to Lincoln University in Pennsylvania and graduated in 1941. While there, he joined a fraternity called Alpha Phi Alpha.

After college, he continued his studies. In 1945, he earned his law degree from the Fordham University School of Law. This education prepared him for his important work as a lawyer.

Franklin Williams' Career and Public Service

Franklin Williams had a long and impactful career in public service. He used his legal skills to help people and improve society.

Working for Justice in California

In 1959, Williams became an assistant attorney general for the state of California. This meant he was a top lawyer working for the state government. He helped make sure laws were followed and justice was served.

Helping to Start the Peace Corps

In 1961, President John F. Kennedy's team asked Williams to help with a new program. This program was the Peace Corps. The Peace Corps sends American volunteers to other countries to help with education, health, and other important projects. Williams helped organize this new and exciting effort.

He also worked as a delegate to UNESCO. This is a part of the United Nations that focuses on education, science, and culture. Williams pushed for a worldwide version of the Peace Corps.

Franklin Williams (fourth from right) with other diplomats in 1967.

Ambassador to Ghana

Under President Lyndon Johnson, Williams became the first Black representative to the United Nations Economic and Social Council. This council works on economic and social issues around the world.

Later, he was appointed ambassador to Ghana. An ambassador is a country's official representative in another country. During his three years in Ghana, he greatly improved the relationship between the United States and Ghana.

Leading the Phelps Stokes Fund

After leaving government work in 1968, Mr. Williams led the Columbia University Urban Center. He also became the president of the Phelps Stokes Fund for 20 years. This organization helps provide education for students from African and Native American backgrounds.

During this time, he served on many important boards. These included Lincoln University, the Council on Foreign Relations, and the New York Board of Higher Education. He also served on the boards of companies like Consolidated Edison and Borden, Inc..

In 1989, he led the New York State Judicial Commission on Minorities. This commission still exists today and is named the Franklin H. Williams Judicial Commission in his honor.

Franklin Williams' Personal Life

Franklin Williams was a member of the Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity. He was married to Shirley Broyard. She was the sister of a well-known writer named Anatole Broyard. Franklin Williams passed away on May 20, 1990, when he was 72 years old.