Louis T. Wright (1891–1952), who made significant contributions to clinical research and surgery, fought for racial equality in the medical profession and health care. After graduating from Harvard Medical School in 1915, he returned to Atlanta to practice medicine and also worked as treasurer of the newly formed NAACP branch led by his friend Walter White. In 1921 he became the first black physician appointed to the staff of a New York municipal hospital, Harlem Hospital, where he served for more than thirty years. In 1928 he became New York’s first black police surgeon and a member of the NAACP board. He was elected the board’s first black chairman and the second black fellow of the American College of Surgeons in 1934. Wright was awarded the Spingarn Medal in 1940.
Louis T. Wright (1891–1952), who made significant contributions to clinical research and surgery, fought for racial equality in the medical profession and health care. After graduating from Harvard Medical School in 1915, he returned to Atlanta to practice medicine and also worked as treasurer of the newly formed NAACP branch led by his friend Walter White. In 1921 he became the first black physician appointed to the staff of a New York municipal hospital, Harlem Hospital, where he served for more than thirty years. In 1928 he became New York’s first black police surgeon and a member of the NAACP board. He was elected the board’s first black chairman and the second black fellow of the American College of Surgeons in 1934. Wright was awarded the Spingarn Medal in 1940.