At the funeral service for civil rights leader Dr. Hazel Dukes, New York Attorney General Letitia James delivered a powerful tribute, vowing to continue the fight for justice and equality.
Speaking to mourners gathered in Harlem, James highlighted Dukes’ impact as a mentor and activist, calling on attendees to carry on her legacy.
“She mentored me and countless individuals,” James declared. “If Mama Dukes mentored you, make some noise.” The gathering erupted in response.
Amid President Donald Trump’s controversial administration, James explained that Dukes’ fight for democracy and civil rights must persist.
“The responsibility just doesn’t fall on the shoulders of the Attorney General of the State of New York,” she stated. “It falls on the shoulders of everyone here because part of her lives in all of us.”
During her speech, James urged the community to resist efforts that threaten progress.
“We’re going to fight against those individuals who want to turn back the clock of progress, fight back against those who want to turn back our democracy and our liberties and our freedom,” she said. “We’re not afraid. We’re going to stand up and fight back.”
Dr. Hazel Dukes, a longtime NAACP leader and champion for racial and social justice, was widely recognized for her dedication to civil rights and public service.
Her funeral drew an outpouring of tributes from political and community leaders alike, all of whom acknowledged her enduring legacy.
James concluded her remarks with a final message of strength and resolve: “Mama Dukes, you live on, you rest. We got this.”
