Dr. Hazel Dukes, an iconic civil rights leader and president of the NAACP New York State Conference, has died, according to a statement from Rev. Al Sharpton.
She was 92.
“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,” Sharpton, founder and president of the National Action Network, said Saturday.
A trailblazing civil rights leader in New York
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Dukes was born and raised in Alabama before making history in New York as the first Black American to work for the Nassau County Attorney’s Office on Long Island.
Dukes was active in politics until her death, supporting Vice President Kamala Harris in the 2024 presidential election and administering the oath of office to Gov. Kathy Hochul, the first woman elected governor of New York, in 2023.
Dukes stood by New York City Mayor Eric Adams when he was charged with corruption last year.
“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. 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,” Adams said in a statement.
Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman issued a statement ordering flags to be lowered in her honor.
“Our sincere condolences to the family of longtime Nassau resident Hazel Dukes. Hazel Dukes was an internationally known Civil Rights leader and held important positions in Nassau County Government. I am ordering flags in Nassau County to be lowered to half staff starting Monday March 3rd until burial as a memorial to a great leader,” Blakeman said.
SUNY awards the Dr. Hazel Dukes Fellowship each year to a student who embodies the values that defined her life and career.
