Black History Month ends and Women’s History Month begins on a difficult note for New Yorkers: Dr. Hazel Dukes, the president of the NAACP New York State Conference and the former national NAACP president, passed away on Saturday, March 1st at 92 years old.
“Mom was a committed civil rights leader in New York City and the nation and worked tirelessly on the frontlines almost to the end,” her son, Ronald Dukes, said in a family statement. “We find comfort in knowing that while she’s no longer with us physically but resting in the bosom of Jesus.”
She was known for advocating for diversity and inclusion. Dr. Hazel made a great impact in the Empire State, receiving the Ellis Island Medal of Honor, the NAACP’s highest honor, the Spingarn Medal, the Guy R. Brewer Humanitarian Award, and the highly coveted key to NYC. She also founded the Hazel N. Dukes & Associates Consultant Firm, which focuses on public policy, health and diversity, per the NAACP.
Upon hearing the news of her passing, key figures in the state, including NYC Mayor Adams, paid tribute to the pioneer.
“Ma Dukes was a true trailblazer who dedicated her life to uplifting the community,” the Mayor said in a statement. “As the longtime leader of NAACP New York State Conference, she fought tirelessly for civil rights, education equity, and economic justice. Her fearless advocacy opened the door for countless New Yorkers — including myself — and helped shaped our city and state into what it is today.”
Her impact will live on in New York State, and beyond.