Margaret M. Groarke
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About Margaret
Groarke's research focuses on voter participation, voter registration reform, US immigration policy, and community organizing. Overarching themes in Groarke's writings include the use of the myth of fraud to suppress voter participation, and the power of grassroots participation. Her most recent research project evaluates the NYC agency-based voter registration program. Groarke serves as the treasurer and board member of the Northwest Bronx Community and Clergy Coalition. At Manhattan University, she coordinates community engaged learning, and leads a non-partisan student voter engagement program at Manhattan University, Jasper Votes.
Contributions
America First Legal’s Petition for Rulemaking Body
In the News
Publications
Explains how learning about peace and justice happens not just in classrooms but through real-world community organizing and activism. Shows that working alongside communities helps people better understand injustice, build practical skills, and turn ideas about fairness and peace into meaningful action.
Examines how claims of voter fraud influence lawmakers when they consider changes to voter registration rules. Finds that even when fraud claims lack strong evidence, they are often used to justify stricter registration laws, shaping policy debates and outcomes.
Looks at whether President Obama’s early immigration policies lived up to the hopes for meaningful reform and fair treatment of immigrants. Finds that while there was hopeful language and some positive steps, many policies continued tough enforcement practices, leaving real change limited and uneven.
Explains how laws, political strategies, and everyday barriers have been used to make it harder for Black Americans to vote. Finds that these efforts reduce political participation and power, not by accident, but through deliberate choices that shape who gets heard in elections.