The NAACP held their 114th National Convention in Boston, MA. where Dr. Hazel N. Dukes was Awarded the NAACP’s distinguished Spingarn Medal, which acknowledges the Highest and Noblest Achievement by a living African American at the Spingarn Freedom Fund Awards Dinner. The Spingarn Medal was presented by her friend, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton at the final evening of the 114th National Convention. During her presenting remarks Hon. Clinton commended Dr. Dukes for her many decades of service to the people of New York and dedication to bettering the lives of Black Americans across the country.
“As a public servant, activist and President of the NAACP New York State Conference, Hazel has spent her entire life lifting up others in the pursuit of justice and equality,” said Hon. Clinton. “She joins a long list of distinguished awardees who have not given up in a world that doesn’t always respect the intelligence or personhood of Black women. It would be literally impossible to count the number of lives she’s touched but I know personally how much she’s touched mine. It’s been an extraordinary privilege to have had her support over the years and a blessing to call her a friend. I am one of the countless people she has mentored, supported and inspired. We have made and lived history together and I will always be grateful for her wisdom, her humor, and her grace.”
Emotional feelings were prominently evident as Dr. Dukes accepted the Spingarn Medal with grace and purpose. “I am overwhelmed with joy and gratitude to be included among this distinguished list of Spingarn medalists,” said Dr. Dukes. “This medal serves as a recognition of my life’s work and reflects on those who have walked with me over the past 70 years. To know my name is etched in NAACP history and American history alongside the civil rights legends who came before me is a humbling honor. These 70 years have not been easy; they have been filled with pain, hardships, and tribulations. But the struggles of those who paved the way serve as a powerful reminder that we must take bold steps to confront racism and tirelessly advocate for civil rights. We must continue fighting the good fight. Throughout my time as an NAACP leader, my greatest privilege has been to mentor those growing up in the Association. I hope my legacy leaves a roadmap for younger generations to learn from and use as they carry this movement forward.”
Many family members, friends, colleagues, and others travelled to Boston to attend the event including National Board of Directors Chairman Leon W. Russell, Vice Chair Karen Boykin-Towns, President & CEO Derrick Johnson, and Kyndell A. Reid, Esq., President, Mid-Manhattan Branch. Chairman Russell and Boykin-Towns shared remarks reflecting on Dr. Dukes’ illustrious activism, career and the immense impact she has had within the Association and in her community through her various leadership roles.
“Dr. Hazel Nell Dukes, the 108th Spingarn medalist, exemplifies the resolute spirit of Black Americans, shattering barriers and making invaluable contributions to our nation,” said Russell. “A mother, leader, civil rights activist, and authentic friend, she embodies the essence of transformative leadership. Her indomitable spirit and unwavering dedication are an inspiration to all. In a world where women have been marginalized and underestimated, Dr. Dukes stands tall as a living testament to strength, courage, and determination. She proves that there is always a light if we dare to see it, and if we are brave enough, we can become that light ourselves.”
“As the nation’s oldest civil rights organization, we remain a fixture in fighting for civil rights and social justice for all. Through our annual awards we highlight the achievements of individuals and our branches, trailblazers who are actively on the front lines driving progress in business, law, education, and other sectors. In honoring their work and commitment, we aim to further the legacy of our organization, while championing future generations of civil rights leaders. The Spingarn award recognizes the incredible contributions of Dr. Hazel Nell Dukes, a true champion for justice and equality,” said Boykin-Towns. “Her unwavering commitment to dismantling systemic barriers and eradicating racial injustice serves as an inspiring example for us all. Dr. Dukes’ vision for an inclusive society, where every individual has equal opportunities to succeed, fuels our determination to continue the fight. Her enduring legacy will inspire generations to come, as we stand united, driven by courage, hope, and love for each other. With Dr. Dukes as our guiding force, justice will prevail.”
Dr. Dukes currently serves as the President of the New York State Conference. She is also a member of the NAACP National Board of Directors, the Executive Committee, and an active member of various Board of Directors sub-committees. Additionally, she serves as President of the Hazel N. Dukes & Associates Consultant Firm and she holds several leadership positions within her New York Community. (Photos courtesy Kyndell A. Reid, Esq.)
