Tobacco-Free Kids Mourns the Passing of Dr. Hazel Dukes, a Champion for Civil Rights and Health Equity
Statement of Yolonda C. Richardson, President and CEO, Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids
WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids mourns the passing and honors the incredible legacy of Dr. Hazel Dukes , longtime President of the NAACP New York State Conference, former national president of the NAACP, and a trailblazing champion for civil rights, social justice and health equity. Dr. Dukes dedicated her life to advocating for a more equitable, more just and healthier future for communities in New York and across the nation, and she mentored and inspired countless colleagues.
Among her many accomplishments, Hazel Dukes stood up to Big Tobacco and was a fierce advocate for eliminating menthol cigarettes – products the tobacco industry has targeted at Black communities for decades with devastating health consequences. As Dr. Dukes stated, “We must not fall victim to the falsehoods of Big Tobacco because they will always choose profits over the health and safety of our community.” We are so grateful for her leadership, partnership and example, and we send our condolences to her family and all who loved her.