Assata Shakur, the Black liberation activist and godmother to rapper Tupac Shakur, passed away on September 25, 2025, at the age of 78 in Havana, Cuba. The Cuban Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed her death, attributing it to health complications related to advanced age. Born JoAnne Deborah Byron in 1947, Shakur became a prominent figure in the Black Panther Party and later the Black Liberation Army (BLA), advocating for racial justice and systemic change.
In 1973, Shakur was involved in a shootout on the New Jersey Turnpike during a traffic stop, resulting in the death of New Jersey State Trooper Werner Foerster. She was convicted in 1977 of first-degree murder and sentenced to life in prison. However, in 1979, Shakur escaped from prison and fled to Cuba, where she was granted political asylum by Fidel Castro. She remained in Cuba for the rest of her life, becoming a symbol of resistance for many and a target for U.S. authorities.
Shakur’s legacy extends beyond her activism. Her 1987 memoir, Assata: An Autobiography, became a seminal work in Black literature, detailing her experiences and perspectives on racial injustice. Her influence permeated hip-hop culture, with artists like Common and Nas referencing her in their music. Common even traveled to Cuba to meet her personally, highlighting her impact on the genre.
Following Shakur’s death, her daughter, Kakuya Shakur, shared the news on Facebook, and tributes poured in from various communities. The Chicago Teachers Union faced criticism for honoring Shakur, reflecting the ongoing debate over her legacy. While some view her as a revolutionary hero, others see her as a fugitive from justice. Regardless of perspective, Assata Shakur’s life and actions have left an indelible mark on American history and culture.
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