Ofield Dukes Funeral Letter
On January 13th the Chairman released the following letter expressing his and the CBC’s condolences to the friends and family of Ofield Dukes for his passing. The official letter can be found in the attached document.
Dear Family and Friends of Ofield Dukes:
On behalf of the 43 Members of the Congressional Black Caucus, I write to express my deepest condolences for the loss of your brother, father, and friend, Ofield Dukes. As hundreds gather today to pay their respects to Mr. Dukes and your family, we celebrate the rich legacy he leaves behind. I am humbled that I had an opportunity to be in the presence of a Public Relations icon and someone who cared so deeply about the legacy of the organization for which I now chair—the Congressional Black Caucus.
His efforts helped to elevate the profile of the Congressional Black Caucus, Members of Congress generally, and Presidents alike. His work spanned from prominent civil rights figures to entertainers. With the opening of the Ofield Dukes & Associates, in 1969, a prominent public relations firm, Mr. Dukes gave everyone an opportunity to receive the best representation. A master of communications, Mr. Dukes believed in justice and fairness for all.
A longtime writer, Mr. Dukes understood that we were the best ones to tell our story. Just this past year, he wrote an article to commemorate the 40th Anniversary of the Congressional Black Caucus. As a founding member of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, he has been more than a friend to the CBC every step of the way.
Now that his diligent work on earth has come to an end, his legacy and light will forever live on. It is my hope that he has now found rest. The rest he deserves, for his mark on this earth and the Congressional Black Caucus will live on for generations to come.
Sincerely,
Chairman Emanuel Cleaver, II
Link to Letter
