Dr. Hazel Dukes, Head of the New York NAACP, Passes Away at 92
A Life of Dedication to Civil Rights
Dr. Hazel Nell Dukes, a prominent civil rights activist and longtime president of the NAACP New York State Conference, has died at the age of 92. Her son released a statement on Saturday morning confirming her passing, surrounded by her loving family.
A Legacy of Service
Throughout her life, Dr. Dukes was committed to fighting for social and racial justice. She was elected national president of the NAACP in 1989, serving until 1992, and remains one of the few women to ever lead the organization. Her tireless work on the frontlines of the civil rights movement earned her numerous awards and recognition, including the National Coalition of 100 Black Women’s Candace Award for community service, the Ellis Island Medal of Honor for patriotism and philanthropy, and the NAACP 108th Spingarn Medal – the highest or noblest achievement by a living African American in any honorable field.
Remembered as a “Force of Nature for Justice”
Rev. Al Sharpton, a longtime friend and colleague, described Dr. Dukes as a “force of nature for justice” and an “activist of the highest order.” “We will never have another Hazel Dukes, but I am grateful that we had this one,” he said.
Paying Tribute
Former Gov. Andrew Cuomo and Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman were among those who paid tribute to Dr. Dukes’ passing. “A great pioneer and warrior for social and racial justice, Hazel Dukes was my champion for as long as I can remember and close to all of us in the Cuomo family,” Cuomo said. Blakeman ordered flags to be lowered to half-staff until Dr. Dukes’ burial “as a memorial to a great leader.”
Conclusion
Dr. Hazel Dukes’ passing is a loss for the civil rights community and a reminder of the importance of her work. Her legacy will continue to inspire future generations of activists and leaders.
FAQs
* What was Dr. Hazel Dukes’ role in the NAACP?
+ Dr. Dukes was president of the NAACP New York State Conference and served as national president from 1989 to 1992.
* How old was Dr. Hazel Dukes when she passed away?
+ 92
* What were some of Dr. Dukes’ notable awards and recognition?
+ She received the National Coalition of 100 Black Women’s Candace Award for community service, the Ellis Island Medal of Honor for patriotism and philanthropy, and the NAACP 108th Spingarn Medal – the highest or noblest achievement by a living African American in any honorable field.
