Malcolm Burnley Writer

Malcolm Burnley has been a journalist in Philadelphia since 2013. Before joining the masthead as a staff writer, he was a longtime freelancer for several outlets in the city, including the Citizen (some of his all-time favorite stories were pieces for the Citizen, like one about Philly’s voting-machine fiasco and a contribution in the Higginbotham series), Philly Mag, and WHYY. He’s also contributed work to Time, POLITICO magazine, The Atlantic, iHeartRadio and other outlets.

A native of Staten Island, NY, he is passionate about telling overlooked stories throughout Philadelphia. He’s also a podcast host and adjunct professor at Temple University’s Klein School of Communications. He wants to see Philadelphia at its best. And he wants a Dion Waiter statue.

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Stories by Malcolm Burnley:

What a Bucks Co Sheriff’s Race Can Tell Us about U.S. Politics

Can a challenger in a Bucks County’s election have the formula for how Democrats can win on public safety?

By Malcolm Burnley

We Are The Champions …

… of squash, thanks to our year-old professional team, the Philadelphia Lightning. That’s just one part of being the undisputed squash capital of the United States

By Malcolm Burnley

The Incredible Shrinking Housing Plan?

Mayor Cherelle Parker’s signature program, H.O.M.E., will build far fewer dwellings than she once promised. Will it solve the problems that need solving?

By Malcolm Burnley
Video and Recap

“What it Means to Carry the Weight of Death”

MSNBC contributor and award-winning journalist Trymaine Lee shared insights from his new book, A Thousand Ways To Die, at a Citizen / Free Library Author event last week

By Malcolm Burnley

Hallee Adelman’s “Horrible Day”

The Main Line author, filmmaker and educator's latest book is an allegory about the impact of gun violence on kids

By Malcolm Burnley
The Citizen Recommends

Education Law Center’s 50th Anniversary Celebration

The nonprofit law firm endlessly fighting for PA students and their families is honoring three “champions” at a fundraising gala, including Citizen Board Member Jennifer Rice

By Malcolm Burnley

A World Without Tumors?

The latest company co-founded by cancer curer Carl June is oozing with ambition, deep pockets, and proven names in biotech. And it’s staying here

By Malcolm Burnley
Ideas We Should Steal

University Brains To Solve City Problems

City governments around the country have partnered with local researchers to find solutions to issues like traffic congestion and fighting fires. Why won’t Philly take advantage of our local colleges to do the same?

By Malcolm Burnley

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