NAACP State Conference President Dr. Hazel N. Dukes passed away Saturday at the age of 92. Since the announcement of her death leaders from around the nation have been sharing their words of condolences and memories in honor of the late civil rights icon.

New York State Govenor Kathy Hochul: “I was with Hazel Dukes at her bedside during her final days. She called me her daughter. That means the world to me. 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 State Attorney General Letitia James: “Hazel Dukes was a barrier breaker, a glass ceiling shatterer, and a leader for millions of New Yorkers and Americans. Dr. Dukes may have been honored with awards, recognitions, street namings, and medals, but to me, she will always be the quiet but powerful force for good, justice, and equality. My heart is heavy as we say goodbye to my dear mentor and friend. May she rest in peace and power, and may her memory be an inspiration for generations to come.”

Mayor Eric Adams: “Ma Dukes was a true trailblazer who dedicated her life to uplifting our community. As the longtime leader of the NAACP New York State Conference, she fought tirelessly for civil rights, education equity, and economic justice. Her fearless advocacy opened doors for countless New Yorkers — including myself — and helped shape our city and state into what it is today.”

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Public Advocate Jumaane Williams: “Dr. Dukes was on the front lines of the fight for civil rights. She was a force for racial equity and against racial injustice for decades, and her impact on our city and her Harlem home cannot be overstated. The void left by her passing cannot truly be filled, but those who follow must work to regain the ground she worked tirelessly to win, to advance her legacy and the movement she championed.”

Rev. Al Sharpton: “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. I spoke to her by phone just two days ago. We will never have another Hazel Dukes, but I am grateful that we had this one.”

Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins: “I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of the legendary Hazel Dukes, a trailblazer and unwavering champion for justice. As President of the NAACP, Hazel devoted her life to advocating for the rights of African Americans, fiercely fighting for equality, and always striving to amplify the voices of those often unheard and forgotten.

Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson: “It was a privilege to know Dr. Dukes, whose unwavering commitment to civil rights and social justice served as an inspiration to me and so many others. Her legacy of leadership, activism, and compassion will continue to guide us for generations to come.”

Assemblymember Brian Cunningham: “For decades, Dr. Dukes stood at the forefront of movements that transformed New York and the nation. She mentored generations of activists, policymakers, and community leaders—instilling in us the responsibility to continue the fight she so passionately championed. Her voice was one of strength, her leadership was unwavering, and her impact immeasurable.”

Brooklyn Democratic Party Chair Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn: “Hazel Dukes fiercely and fearlessly devoted her life towards championing civil rights, and selflessly serving to uplift Brooklynites, all New Yorkers—and her indelible impact will continue to be felt across the nation.”

Hempstead Mayor James A. Garner: “Hazel was more than just someone who stood by me—she was a lifeline for generations. As the National President of the NAACP and the longtime President of the organization’s New York State chapter, she fought on the front lines for our people, kicking down doors so the rest of us could walk through them.”

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3 Comments

  1. Hazel made endless contributions to our struggle for justice. She cannot be duplicated or replaced. Her fighting spirit will continue to shine through the work of the NAACP and will inspire those she has left behind and future generations of leaders and fighters. Iwish her Godspeed.

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