Flaschner mourns the passing of Judge Leslie E. Harris, a retired Associate Justice of the Suffolk Juvenile Court, who passed away peacefully at home on October 15. His loss is a profound one for all who knew him and for the many communities he served. Judge Harris left an enduring legacy of service, scholarship, and compassion. Appointed to the bench in 1994 by Governor William Weld, he served with distinction for two decades until his retirement in 2014.
Judge Harris, his wife, Beverly, and their children are residents of Roxbury. A lifelong educator and advocate for youth, he began his career as a teacher before earning his Juris Doctor from Boston College Law School. His distinguished career encompassed roles in public defense, prosecution, and the judiciary. Judge Harris was a founding member of several transformative organizations, including Citizens for Juvenile Justice, the Youth Advocacy Project, and Alternatives for Community and Environment. He also served for 25 years on the Board of the Museum of African American History, including as Chair, and contributed his leadership to numerous civic and educational boards.
Throughout his career, Judge Harris was recognized with many honors, including the Lifetime Achievement Award from Boston College Law School, the Champions of Freedom Award from Freedom House, and the inaugural Judge Leslie E. Harris Juvenile Justice Award. His steadfast dedication to justice, education, and community will continue to inspire those who follow in his footsteps.