Charles DeWitt Watts

Charles DeWitt Watts

Charles DeWitt Watts was a pioneering African American physician and surgeon whose contributions significantly impacted the medical community and civil rights in Durham, North Carolina. Born in the early 20th century, Watts overcame the era's pervasive racial barriers to become one of the most respected medical professionals in his region.

Watts pursued his medical education at Meharry Medical College, one of the few medical schools that accepted African American students at the time. After completing his medical degree, he furthered his training and expertise in surgery, which was a field with even more significant barriers for Black physicians.

Throughout his career, Dr. Watts was deeply involved in the fight against segregation and inequality in healthcare. He played a crucial role in the integration of hospitals in Durham, ensuring that Black patients received the same quality of care as their white counterparts. His efforts were not limited to the operating room or the boardroom; he was also active in community health initiatives, focusing on improving access to medical care for the underserved populations.

Dr. Watts' legacy includes his work in the establishment of Lincoln Community Health Center, a facility aimed at providing high-quality healthcare to the economically disadvantaged residents of Durham. This center has served as a model for community health centers nationwide.

In addition to his medical practice and civil rights activism, Dr. Watts was a mentor to many young African American physicians and healthcare professionals. He believed strongly in the power of education and the importance of providing opportunities for the next generation of medical practitioners.

Dr. Watts' contributions to medicine and civil rights were recognized with numerous awards and honors throughout his life. His dedication to health equity and social justice has left an indelible mark on the medical community and continues to inspire healthcare professionals and activists alike.

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