Thao Nguyen
Hazel Dukes, a prominent civil rights advocate and president of the NAACP New York State Conference, died Saturday. She was 92.
Dukes died peacefully at her home in New York City surrounded by her family, the NAACP New York State Conference (NYS NAACP) said in a statement. Known to many as “Ma Dukes” or “Queen Mother,” Dukes spent more than seven decades fighting for voting rights, economic development, fair housing, and education for all.
“From leading our National organization to carrying our New York State Conference, serving as a passionate voice on our National Board of Directors, and mentoring our youth, there is no corner of the movement that has been untouched by Dr. Dukes’ legacy,” NAACP officials said in a joint statement. “While she may have passed on, hers is a legacy that will outlive us all.”
A native of Montgomery, Alabama, Dukes moved with her family to New York in the 1950s and became involved in the movement for racial equity across healthcare, education, and housing, according to the NAACP. She was later selected by President Lyndon B. Johnson to work for the Head Start program, a federally funded early childhood program for low-income children.
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Dukes was one of few women to lead the NAACP, succeeding Enolia McMillan as president in 1990. She held that position until 1992.
She was also a member of the NAACP National Board of Directors and served as president of the NYS NAACP from 1977 until her death, the organization said.
Dukes received numerous honors and awards for her “many years of commitment to justice and activism,” including the National Coalition of 100 Black Women’s Candace Award for community service and the Ellis Island Medal of Honor for patriotism and philanthropy, according to the NYS NAACP. In 2020, Dukes became the first civilian in the U.S. to administer the oath of office to a governor.
The organization noted that Dukes remained an outspoken advocate against police brutality and pushed for adequate health care in underserved neighborhoods into her 90s. In 2023, former U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton presented Dukes with the NAACP’s highest honor — the Spingarn Medal.
“These 70 years have not been easy; they have been filled with pain, hardships, and tribulations,” Dukes said after receiving the award. “But the struggles of those who paved the way serve as a powerful reminder that we must take bold steps to confront racism and tirelessly advocate for civil rights.”
Hazel Dukes remembered by leaders across New York
New York Governor Kathy Hochul — whom Dukes administered the oath of office — said she was with the civil rights leader during her final days.
“She called me her daughter. That means the world to me,” Hochul said in a statement on X. “Her contributions to making our state and our country more just, more equitable, and more fair are impacts that will long endure after her passing.”
New York City Mayor Eric Adams described “Ma Dukes” as a “true trailblazer who dedicated her life to uplifting our community.”
“For over 40 years, Ma Dukes has been an unwavering presence in my life — a trusted advisor, a cherished friend, and a guiding light during some of my most challenging times,” Adams said in a statement. “New York City has lost a giant, but heaven has gained a warrior.”
Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman shared his condolences to Dukes’ family on Saturday, noting that Dukes had been a longtime resident of Nassau County and held important positions in the local government.
Hochul, Adams, and Blakeman all ordered flags to be lowered at half-staff to honor the life and memory of Dukes.
She is survived by her son Ronald Dukes.
Contributing: Reuters
