
Margaret A. Burnham was an influential American lawyer and academic known for her significant contributions to civil rights law and restorative justice. As a University Distinguished Professor of Law at Northeastern University School of Law, she dedicated her career to addressing historical injustices and advocating for equity in the legal system. Burnham founded the Civil Rights and Restorative Justice Project, which focused on documenting and addressing racial violence and injustices that occurred during the civil rights era. Her work aimed to provide a platform for victims and their families, ensuring that their stories were heard and acknowledged. In addition to her role as a professor, Burnham co-founded the Burnham-Nobles Digital Archive, which serves as a vital resource for researchers and educators interested in civil rights history. She also served as the Faculty Co-Director for Northeastern Law's Center for Law, Equity and Race (CLEAR), further emphasizing her commitment to promoting social justice and equity. As a member of the Civil Rights Cold Case Records Review Board, Burnham played a crucial role in the ongoing efforts to investigate and resolve unsolved civil rights cases, ensuring that the legacy of those who suffered injustice is not forgotten. Her work has left a lasting impact on the field of law and continues to inspire future generations of legal scholars and advocates.
“It is true that some public defenders are good lawyers and want to be effective advocates, but the institution is structured, so as to discourage their efforts.”