The Roxbury Defenders: Labor, Love, Legacy and Judge Harris

In 1971 young Black attorneys founded the Roxbury Defenders Committee to provide legal services to Roxbury residents who could not afford legal fees and often were not adequately represented. Members of the Roxbury Defenders will share their experiences, ruminate on criminal justice then and now, and reflect on the achievements and vision of the Honorable Leslie Harris, Associate Justice, Suffolk Juvenile Court [Ret.] who passed away in late 2025.

A moderated discussion will include these esteemed panelists:

Honorable Geraldine Hines, Associate Justice, Supreme Judicial Court [Ret.]

Honorable Roderick Ireland, Chief Justice, Supreme Judicial Court [Ret.]

Honorable Milton Wright, First Justice, Roxbury Division, Boston Municipal Court [Ret.]

Yolanda Acevedo, Attorney in Charge of the Roxbury Defenders

Tribute to Judge Leslie Harris, Esq. [Ret.].

Roxbury Defenders cofounder and Roxbury Historical Society board member, Judge Harris, passed away in late 2025. He was a lifelong advocate, educator, and lover of history. Through his roles as teacher, youth worker, Suffolk Superior Court probation officer, public defender, and Chief of the Juvenile Division in the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office, Judge Harris championed justice, equity, and opportunity for youth and the Greater Roxbury Community. His unwavering commitment, leadership, and service has left an enduring impact.