Civil Rights Icon Hazel Dukes Dies at 92

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Civil Rights Icon Hazel Dukes Dies at 92 \ Newslooks \ Washington DC \ Mary Sidiqi \ Evening Edition \ Hazel Dukes, a pioneering civil rights leader and longtime New York State NAACP president, passed away at 92, leaving behind a legacy of activism. She fought for voting rights, fair housing, and economic justice for nearly five decades, influencing major political milestones, including Shirley Chisholm’s 1972 campaign and Joe Biden’s 2020 VP selection. Honored with the NAACP’s Spingarn Medal in 2023, Dukes’ impact on racial justice and leadership will continue to inspire future generations.

Hazel Dukes’ Passing: Quick Look

Hazel Dukes, a legendary civil rights leader and longtime president of the New York State NAACP, passed away Saturday at the age of 92.
She died peacefully at home in New York City, surrounded by family, her son Ronald Dukes confirmed.
Dukes dedicated nearly 50 years to fighting for voting rights, fair housing, economic opportunity, and education for marginalized communities.
Even in her 90s, she remained a vocal advocate against police brutality and for healthcare access in underserved neighborhoods.
In 2023, Hillary Clinton honored Dukes with the NAACP’s highest award, the Spingarn Medal, recognizing her lifetime of activism.
She played a key role in Shirley Chisholm’s historic 1972 presidential campaign and influenced Joe Biden’s selection of a Black woman as his 2020 running mate.
Vice President Kamala Harris called Dukes one of the heroes “upon whose broad shoulders we stand.”
New York City Mayor Eric Adams ordered flags to be lowered to half-staff in her honor.

Deep Look

A Life Dedicated to Justice and Equality

Hazel Dukes was a trailblazing force in the civil rights movement for more than half a century.

Born in Montgomery, Alabama, Dukes witnessed the deep racial inequalities of the Jim Crow South, an experience that shaped her lifelong commitment to justice. She later moved to New York, where she became a key figure in the fight for racial equality and social justice.

Her work with the NAACP spanned nearly five decades, during which she championed voter rights, desegregation, economic justice, and equitable education.

Even in her 90s, Dukes remained a fearless advocate, continuing to:

Speak out against police brutality.
Demand healthcare access for marginalized communities.
Push for housing reforms to prevent discrimination.

“I’m not tired yet,” Dukes proclaimed in 2023 while accepting the NAACP’s highest honor, the Spingarn Medal.

A Pioneer for Black Women in Politics and Leadership

Dukes was one of the first Black women to take center stage at the national level in American politics.

In 1972, she took the stage at the Democratic National Convention to formally second the presidential nomination of Shirley Chisholm, the first Black woman to run for the presidency under a major party.
Her leadership paved the way for future generations of Black women in politics, helping to break down racial and gender barriers.

Her influence continued decades later, as she was instrumental in Joe Biden’s decision to select a Black woman as his running mate in 2020.

“I’m just proud of Kamala. If I can live to see this happen, it would be the joy of my life,” Dukes said in a 2024 CBS interview.

Following Dukes’ passing, Vice President Kamala Harris paid tribute, saying:

“Hazel Dukes was one of the heroes upon whose broad shoulders we stand.”

Leadership at the NAACP: Five Decades of Impact

Dukes’ leadership in the NAACP was unmatched, having served as president of the New York State chapter for nearly 50 years.

She also served on the NAACP National Board of Directors, where she helped shape national civil rights policies.

“She was a living embodiment of the NAACP,” the organization said in a statement. “Her legacy touches every aspect of our movement.”

Her work with the NAACP focused on several key areas:

Voting rights – She fought against voter suppression and expanded Black voter participation.
Education equity – She pushed for desegregation and better funding for historically Black schools.
Economic justice – She worked to expand Black entrepreneurship and employment opportunities.
Fair housing – She fought housing discrimination and worked on legislation to protect tenants’ rights.

Dukes was known for her ability to bridge generational divides, mentoring young activists and preparing the next wave of civil rights leaders.

Recognition and Influence in Public Policy

Beyond the NAACP, Dukes was a respected advisor and policy expert, working with leaders across the political spectrum.

She ran her own consulting firm, advising organizations on civil rights policies.
She worked in public service, ensuring communities of color had access to critical resources.
She was a trusted voice in local and national politics, influencing policies that shaped social justice reforms.

Her legacy was recognized in 2023 when Hillary Clinton presented her with the NAACP’s Spingarn Medal, the organization’s highest honor.

“Hazel has been a beacon of justice for decades,” Clinton said. “Her impact on civil rights in America is immeasurable.”

Honors and Tributes Following Her Passing

Following her death, leaders across the country honored Dukes’ legacy:

New York City Mayor Eric Adams ordered flags to be lowered to half-staff as a tribute.
Civil rights organizations, political leaders, and activists shared tributes, recognizing her immense contributions.
The NAACP called her passing “the loss of an icon”, vowing to carry forward her fight for justice.

Final Thoughts: A Legacy That Will Live On

Hazel Dukes was more than an activist—she was a relentless force for change, a champion of justice, and a mentor to generations of civil rights leaders.

Her work helped shape modern Black political power, inspired future leaders, and left an indelible mark on the fight for equality.

As the nation mourns her passing, her influence will continue to guide the next generation of activists and policymakers.