News Release

NEA Mourns the Loss of Dr. C. DeLores Tucker, Human Rights and Social Activist

WASHINGTON -- Reg Weaver, president of the National Education Association (NEA), issued the following statement on the passing of Dr. C. DeLores Tucker:

“Dr. C. DeLores Tucker broke countless social and racial barriers. A tireless worker, she dedicated her life to social change.

“Although she was best known for her roles as Pennsylvania Secretary of State—the first African-American to do so—and founder of the National Congress of Black Women, Inc. (NCBW), Dr. Tucker was a tireless advocate for education.

“She was an invaluable resource as the founder and president of the Bethune-DuBois Institute, Inc., which she established to promote the cultural development of African-American youth through scholarships and educational programs.

“Everyone, not just women and African-Americans, owes Dr. Tucker a great deal of gratitude for paving the way for equality at home and in the workplace.

“The NEA family is saddened to lose a friend who shared the Association’s vision of great public schools and education opportunities for every child.  She was a pioneer in every sense of the word.”

Oct. 14, 2005

For more information, contact:

Andy Krauss, NEA Public Relations (202) 822-7268
Staci Maiers, NEA Public Relations (202) 822-7150

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The National Education Association is the nation's largest professional employee organization, representing 2.7 million elementary and secondary teachers, college faculty, school administrators, education support professionals, retired educators and students preparing to become teachers.