Assata Shakur, the godmother and aunt of late rap icon Tupac Shakur, has passed away at the age of 78. Born Joanne Chesimard, Shakur was a prominent Black activist, known for her role in the Black Liberation Army and her involvement with the Black Panther Party.
A controversial yet influential figure, Shakur spent decades in exile in Cuba after being convicted in connection with the 1973 shooting of a New Jersey state trooper, a case she long maintained was politically motivated.
Beyond her political legacy, Shakur held a personal connection to hip-hop history as the godmother of Tupac Shakur, who often referenced her struggles and resilience in his music and public life.
With her passing, Shakur “has finally joined her godson,” as fans reflect, marking the end of an era tied deeply to both the Black liberation struggle and hip-hop culture.
May she rest in peace.
