Dr. Hazel Nell Dukes, a renowned civil rights activist and president of the NAACP New York State Conference, passed away on Saturday, March 1. She was 92.
Her son Ronald Dukes confirmed his mother’s passing in an official statement obtained by NBC New York.
“It is with profound sadness that I announce the passing of my mother, Dr. Hazel Nell Dukes at 92 years of age,” Ronald said in a statement.
“Mom departed this life peacefully on the morning of March 1, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. Mom was a committed civil rights leader in New York City and the nation and worked tirelessly on the frontlines almost to the end,” his statement continued. “We find comfort in knowing that while she’s no longer with us physically but resting in the bosom of Jesus.”
Gov. Kathy Hochul also paid tribute to Dukes, whom she called “mother on Earth.” At Hochul’s swearing-in, Dukes became the first civilian in U.S. history to administer the oath of office to a governor in 2023.
“I was with Hazel Dukes at her bedside during her final days. She called me her daughter. That means the world to me,” said Hochul.
In tribute to Dukes, Mayor Adams ordered flags on all city buildings to be lowered to half-staff.
“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,” Adams said. “I will remember Ma Dukes for her remarkable ability to bring people together.
Born in Montgomery, Alabama, on March 17, 1932, Dukes was the only child of Edward and Alice Dukes., She entered Alabama State Teachers College (Now Alabama State College) in 1949. After relocating to New York City with her parents in 1955, she studied Business Administration at Nassau Community College.
In the 1960s, Dukes worked on the “Head Start” program during President Lyndon B. Johnson’s administration. In 1966, she became the first African American to work at the Nassau County Attorney’s Office. She was also a community organizer for the Nassau County Economic Opportunity Commission (EOC), educating children who lived in poverty.
Duke graduated from Adelphi University in 1978 with a bachelor’s degree.
From 1989 to 1992, Dukes was the national president of the NAACP and the New York City Off-Track Betting Corporation (NYCOTB).
Over the course of her career, Dukes was honored by the National Coalition of 100 Black Women, the Women’s Black Agenda, Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, the New York State Association of Black and Puerto Rican Legislators, and the New York State Senate.
On Thursday (Feb.27), The Rev. Al Sharpton had described Dukes as “true friend.”
“She was a force of nature for justice and an activist of the highest order,” Sharpton said in a statement. “She made a difference, and we will forever be indebted to her.”
We at EBONY offer our prayers and deepest condolences to the family and friends of Dr. Hazel Nell Dukes.
