Barack Obama paid a glowing tribute to Nipsey Hussle in a letter that was read at a memorial for the late musician and activist on Thursday.
The former President thanked the rapper who was killed in a shooting outside his clothing line store last month for lifting up his South Central Los Angeles community.
“I’d never met Nipsey Hussle, but I’d heard some of his music through my daughters, and after his passing, I had the chance to learn more about his transformation and his community work.
While most folks look at the Crenshaw neighborhood where he grew up and see only gangs, bullets, and despair, Nipsey saw potential. He saw hope. He saw a community that, even though its flaws, taught him to always keep going. His choice to invest in that community rather than ignore it – to build a skill training center and a coworking space in Crenshaw: to lift up the Eritrean-American community; to set an example for young people to follow – is a legacy worthy of celebration. I hope his memory inspires more good work in Crenshaw and community like it.
Michelle and I send our sympathies to Lauren, Emani, Kross and the entire Asghedom family to all those who loved Nipsey.” Obama wrote.
