Dear BMCC Community,
Dr. Hazel Dukes, a true giant, a tireless advocate for justice, and a champion of education died on Saturday, March 1. The date, the first day of Women’s HERstory Month, carries a weight that only deepens our sense of loss and reinforces the legacy she leaves behind. It’s a powerful, almost symbolic date. The very month dedicated to celebrating the achievements and contributions of women throughout history began with the silencing of a voice that echoed through generations, advocating for the voiceless and marginalized. Yet, even in her passing, her legacy echoes louder, urging us to continue the work she so tirelessly championed.
Born on March 17, 1932, in Montgomery, Alabama, Dr. Dukes’ life was a testament to the power of resilience, the unwavering pursuit of equality, and the transformative force of education. From her early experiences witnessing the harsh realities of segregation in the Jim Crow South, Dr. Dukes developed a deep-seated commitment to dismantling injustice and empowering communities. Her journey took her from humble beginnings to the forefront of the Civil Rights Movement. Dr. Dukes served as a tireless organizer for the NAACP, eventually rising to become the President of the NAACP New York State Conference, a position she held with unwavering dedication for decades. In this role, she became a powerful voice for the voiceless, fighting for voting rights, affordable housing, economic opportunity, and educational equity for all. Dr. Dukes understood that education was the key to unlocking opportunity and breaking the cycles of poverty and discrimination. She recognized that a quality education was not just a privilege, but a fundamental right. This belief resonates deeply with the mission of Borough of Manhattan Community College, where we are deeply committed to providing accessible and affordable higher education to a diverse student body, many of whom are first-generation college students.
The BMCC community stands as a direct benefactor of Dr. Dukes’ tireless efforts. Her advocacy for increased funding for higher education, her unwavering support for programs that promote student success, and her commitment to ensuring that all students, regardless of their background, have the opportunity to thrive, have all had a profound impact on our institution.
Dr. Dukes’ legacy extends far beyond the walls of BMCC. Her influence is felt throughout our city and our nation. She was a bridge-builder, bringing together people from all walks of life to work towards a common goal of creating a more just and equitable society. She was a mentor, inspiring countless individuals to dedicate their lives to public service. She was a fearless advocate, never afraid to speak truth to power. Her passion for justice and her unwavering commitment to equality were evident in every aspect of her life. From her work fighting for fair housing practices to her leadership in addressing health disparities in underserved communities, Dr. Dukes dedicated her life to making our city and country a better place for everyone. She was a force of nature, a beacon of hope, and an inspiration to us all. Her absence will be deeply felt, but her legacy will endure. As we mourn her passing, we also celebrate her extraordinary life and her indelible impact on our community. To that end, Borough of Manhattan Community College will be holding a memorial in the spring to honor Dr. Hazel Dukes. This memorial will be a time for us to come together as a community to reflect on her life, to share our memories, and to reaffirm our commitment to carrying on her legacy of justice and equity. Further details about this memorial will be announced in the coming weeks. In closing, let us all be inspired by the life of Dr. Hazel Dukes to work tirelessly for a more just and equitable world. Let us honor her memory by continuing her fight for equality, by empowering the next generation of leaders, and by never giving up on the dream of a society where all individuals have the opportunity to reach their full potential. Thank you.
Sincerely,
Anthony E. Munroe
President, Borough of Manhattan Community College
