Theresa A. Burton, the mother of political activist Lawrence Hamm, passed away on August 17, 2021, at the age of 87. Burton was a beloved member of her community and a fierce advocate for social justice.
Burton was born on February 5, 1934, in Newark, New Jersey. She grew up in a working-class family and attended local schools. After graduating from high school, Burton worked as a secretary at a local insurance company. She later married and had two children, Lawrence and his sister.
Burton was a devoted mother who instilled in her children a strong sense of social justice and activism. She was deeply involved in the civil rights movement of the 1960s and marched alongside her son Lawrence in protests against racial discrimination and police brutality.
In the 1970s, Burton became involved in the anti-war movement and protested against the Vietnam War. She was also an active member of the Black Panther Party and worked to promote their message of self-determination and community empowerment.
Throughout her life, Burton remained committed to social justice and worked tirelessly to improve the lives of those around her. She was a mentor to many young activists and encouraged them to get involved in the struggle for justice.
Burton’s son Lawrence Hamm is a well-known political activist who has dedicated his life to fighting for social justice. He is the founder and chairman of the People’s Organization for Progress, a grassroots organization that advocates for civil rights, economic justice, and peace.
In a statement released after his mother’s passing, Hamm said, “My mother was my inspiration and my guiding light. She taught me to stand up for what I believe in and to fight for justice no matter what the cost. I will miss her dearly, but I know that her spirit will live on in all of us who continue to fight for a better world.”
Burton’s legacy will continue to inspire generations of activists to come. Her commitment to social justice and her unwavering dedication to the struggle for a better world will never be forgotten.
