01-03-2025
NAACP New York President Dr. Hazel Dukes dies at 92
NEW YORK (PIX11) — Dr. Hazel N. Dukes, a trailblazer and pioneer for racial and social justice, passed away at 92 on Saturday morning, her son Ronald Dukes says.
The civil rights activist was the President of the NAACP New York State Conference and a member of the organization's National Board of Directors. She previously served as the national president of the NAACP.
More: Latest News from Around the Tri-State
'Mom was a committed civil rights leader in New York City and the nation and worked tirelessly on the frontlines almost to the end,' said Ronald Dukes in a family statement.
Dr. Dukes dedicated more than seven decades to advocating for racial diversity, equity and inclusion and has worked closely with elected officials and leaders to link business, government and social causes.
More Local News
'I'm saddened to hear of the passing of my true friend, sister and friend for more than 40 years, Hazel Dukes. She was a force of nature for justice and an activist of the highest order. She made a difference, and we will forever be indebted to her,' said Rev. Al Sharpton in a statement.
As an entrepreneur, Dr. Dukes was also the President and founder of Hazel N. Dukes & Associates Consultant Firm. The firm specializes in strategic planning as it pertains to education, economic development, civic engagement and youth development.
Former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo first shared news of her passing in a social media post on Saturday morning.
'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. America has lost one of the greats,' the post read.
Dr. Dukes has received multiple honors and awards for her work in social justice and activism including the Ellis Island Medal of Honor, the Guy R. Brewer Humanitarian Award, and the key to New York City by former Mayor Bill de Blasio.
Dr. Dukes made history as the first Black American to work for the Nassau County Attorney's Office and the first layperson in the U.S. to administer the oath of office to a governor for Kathy Hochul in 2023.
Dominique Jack is a digital content producer from Brooklyn with more than five years of experience covering news. She joined PIX11 in 2024. More of her work can be found here.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
