Hazel Nell Dukes, NAACP leader ,passed away on March 1, 2025, at the age of 92. She died at her home in Harlem, New York. Dukes spent her life working for racial equality. She was especially known for her efforts in education, healthcare, and housing. Although she is gone, her legacy will continue to inspire others.
A Life of Leadership and Activism
- Hazel Dukes was born in Montgomery, Alabama, in 1932.
- She moved to New York City in the late 1940s and quickly joined the civil rights movement.
- Dukes joined the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) because she cared about justice.
- She worked with the NAACP for over 60 years.
- Throughout her career, Dukes broke many barriers.
- In the 1970s, she became the first Black American to work at the Nassau County Attorney’s Office.
- Later, she made history by becoming the first African American woman to lead the New York City Off-Track Betting Corporation.
- These achievements showed her strength and leadership.
- In the 1980s, Dukes became a leader of the NAACP.
- During her time, she fought against racial discrimination and supported voting rights, fair housing, and better education.
- After stepping down as national president, she continued her work by leading the NAACP New York State Conference.
- She mentored many young activists and remained active in the movement.
Hazel Dukes Fight for Equal Rights As NAACP Leader
Hazel Dukes worked hard to make sure Black communities had equal rights. One of her main goals was ending school segregation. She also pushed for better education in Black neighborhoods. Additionally, she fought against unfair housing policies. She believed homeownership was important for building wealth and opportunities for Black families.
Dukes also focused on improving healthcare. She worked to ensure underserved communities had better access to medical care. She also fought for policies that addressed racial health issues. Dukes collaborated with local and state leaders to bring about change in healthcare.
Another area where Dukes worked hard was voter registration. She believed empowering Black voters was key to racial justice. She spent many years organizing voter drives and helping people understand the importance of voting.
Awards and Recognition
Dukes received many awards for her civil rights work. In 2023, she received the NAACP’s Spingarn Medal, the group’s highest honor. Hillary Clinton, former U.S. Secretary of State, presented the award. It celebrated Dukes’ years of dedication to justice.
Dukes had a lasting impact on the people she mentored beyond the awards. She encouraged young activists to keep fighting for what is right. “The work is never done,” she often said. “We must always stand up for what’s right, for ourselves and for those who come after us.”
Tributes and Honors
After her death, many leaders and community members honored Hazel Dukes. NAACP President Derrick Johnson called her a “trailblazer” who changed history. New York Governor Kathy Hochul praised her as a “fearless advocate for justice.” Former President Barack Obama also honored her, saying she “never wavered in her commitment to justice and dignity for all.”
Communities in New York and across the nation held vigils to remember her. People remembered not only her activism but also her kindness and care for others.
A Final Farewell
A public memorial service for Hazel Dukes will be held at the Abyssinian Baptist Church in Harlem. Friends, family, and leaders from all over will gather to celebrate her life. The service will be a time to reflect on her tireless work and dedication to civil rights. Though Hazel Dukes has passed, her work will inspire future generations. Her commitment to equality and justice has left a lasting mark on the world. Her legacy will continue to guide those who follow in her footsteps, striving for a better, more just society.
