Hazel Dukes, civil rights leader and president of the NAACP New York State Conference, passed away on March 1 at the age of 92. Dukes died peacefully at her Harlem, NY, home as confirmed by her son, Ronald Dukes. In a statement to CBS News New York, he said, “Mom was a committed civil rights leader in New York City and the nation and worked tirelessly on the frontlines almost to the end. We find comfort in knowing that while she’s no longer with us physically, she is resting in the bosom of Jesus.”
Dukes, often affectionately called “Queen Mother” or “Ma Dukes,” was a trailblazer in civil rights activism for over seven decades. Born in Montgomery, Alabama, she moved to New York in 1956. Dukes was one of the first Black women to serve as president of the NAACP New York State Conference, a role she held from 1977 until her passing, CBS News reported.
Throughout her life, Dukes fought tirelessly for voting rights, fair housing, economic development, and education for marginalized communities. She also worked in government programs like Head Start and played a significant role in the NAACP’s national leadership. Dukes’ career was marked by various accolades, including the Ellis Island Medal of Honor and the National Coalition of 100 Black Women’s Candace Award for community service. In 2020, she made history as the first civilian to administer the oath of office to a U.S. governor, USA Today reported.
Even in her 90s, Dukes remained actively engaged in civil rights issues, continuing to advocate against police brutality and for healthcare access in underserved neighborhoods. She also offered vocal support for leaders like Vice President Kamala Harris and New York Governor Kathy Hochul.
Tributes poured in from leaders across New York. Governor Kathy Hochul, who Dukes called her “daughter,” expressed deep sorrow, saying, “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 hailed Dukes as a “true trailblazer” who had “dedicated her life to uplifting our community.”
Dukes is survived by her son, Ronald Dukes. Funeral service plans will be announced soon.
