Born: 1970 (Bluejacket, Oklahoma)
Died: 2004 (Iraq)
Biography:
Fern Leona Holland (August 5, 1970 – March 9, 2004) was an American lawyer who dedicated her life to advocating for human rights and empowering women. Born and raised in Oklahoma, Holland grew up in Bluejacket, a small town nestled between Vinita and Miami. She displayed an unwavering commitment to justice from an early age, setting the stage for her inspiring career.
Holland’s educational journey began at the University of Oklahoma, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in 1992. Her thirst for knowledge and passion for law led her to pursue a Juris Doctorate at the University of Tulsa College of Law, which she successfully obtained in 1996. Equipped with a strong legal foundation, Holland embarked on her professional career as a lawyer in Tulsa.
However, Holland’s desire to make a meaningful impact on the world propelled her towards the Peace Corps. In pursuit of humanitarian work, she joined the organization and embarked on a life-changing adventure in Namibia. This experience offered her invaluable insight into the global struggle for equality and justice, igniting a lifelong dedication to fighting oppression.
In July 2003, Fern Holland was hired by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) to investigate human rights abuses under Saddam Hussein’s regime. As part of the Abuse Prevention Unit, she worked tirelessly to protect victims of abuse during times of conflict. Her expertise and unwavering commitment to justice led to her being retained by the Coalition Provisional Authority (CPA) to assist in establishing a democratic form of government in Iraq.
Tragically, on March 9, 2004, Holland’s life was cut short while fulfilling her duties in Iraq. Alongside American press officer and former Marine Corps lieutenant colonel Robert J. Zangas and their Iraqi translator, Salwa Ourmashi, she was ambushed and shot by individuals in Iraqi police uniforms. This devastating act marked a turning point in the war, highlighting the dangers faced by Western civilians involved in the reconstruction efforts.
The New York Times Magazine shed light on the profound impact Holland had on the Iraqi people, particularly women. Interviews revealed that she was intentionally targeted for murder due to her unwavering commitment to empowering women. This act of violence served as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by individuals working towards equity and justice in war-torn regions.
In the years following her tragic death, federal investigators looked into the disappearance of hundreds of thousands of dollars entrusted to Holland and Zangas by American authorities. While no suspicion fell on either Holland or Zangas, the investigation explored the possibility that others had taken advantage of their deaths to steal additional funds. These allegations do not tarnish Holland’s legacy, as her contributions to women’s rights and human rights activism remain an indelible part of her story.
Fern Holland’s legacy extends far beyond her untimely death. In 2005, she was named Oklahoman of the Year, a testament to the impact she made in her home state and beyond. Her unwavering commitment to justice and empowerment continues to inspire individuals and organizations worldwide. The Fern L. Holland Award, sponsored by the University of Oklahoma Student Affairs and Delta Gamma Fraternity, is a testament to her lasting impact. This annual $1,000 award recognizes individuals who embody her spirit by working towards gender equality and social justice.
Awards:
– Oklahoman of the Year (2005)