Reginald A. Hawkins graduated from Johnson C. Smith University and earned a dentistry degree from Howard University. He transitioned from private practice to civil rights activism, leading significant protests and boycotts against segregation in Charlotte. Hawkins founded the Mecklenburg Organization for Political Affairs to advocate for desegregation and equal rights, and he played a role in organizing the 1963 March on Washington. Despite running for Governor of North Carolina twice, he did not secure the Democratic nomination.

Reginald A. Hawkins's political identity is marked by a confrontational yet community-driven approach to civil rights, blending direct action with strategic litigation. His ideological positioning diverges from mainstream civil rights organizations, as evidenced by his resignation from the NAACP and establishment of MOPA. Hawkins's rhetorical style leverages media coverage to galvanize public support, while his policy stances reveal a calculated approach to achieving desegregation in healthcare and education sectors.