Bar Leader Douglas R. Greer Honored

On Sunday, April 29, 2001, a recognition dinner was held for Douglas R. Greer, in honor of his 50 years as a lawyer and civil rights pioneer.

The event was held at the Sacramento Capitol Club. Several hundred were in attendance including judges from Sacramento, San Joaquin and Alameda counties. 15 individuals and organizations awarded tributes and plaques.

Greer and his sister, Lucy Amerson Washington were the first brother and sister law firm in Sacramento. In the courtroom, Greer fought successfully against the discriminatory housing and employment practices that were widespread in the city in the early 1950s. He was also the pacesetter in the crusade in the late 50's and 60's to ensure equal access for people of all races to the casinos in Nevada.

Greer's door has always been open to community groups and individuals that sought his legal assistance. His office building, an institution in itself, has been home to lawyers of every type of practice area shape and form. Thus one of his favorite sayings, "proven affirmative action in action."

Several lawyers and jurists today credit Greer as being not only their inspiration for going into law, but also the person who, more than any other, opened the door for them to the legal profession.

[Editor note: Sacramento Lawyer congratulates Douglas R. Greer and commends him for his truly outstanding service to the Sacramento community.]