Date of Birth: January 10, 1947
Zodiac Sign: Capricorn
Date of Death: May 2, 2016
Biography
Afeni Shakur, born Alice Faye Williams, was a prominent American activist, businesswoman, and philanthropist, best known for her involvement in the Black Panther Party and as the mother of legendary rapper Tupac Shakur. Born in Lumberton, North Carolina, Afeni moved to New York City, where she became deeply involved in the civil rights movement. She joined the Black Panther Party in the late 1960s, taking on significant responsibilities such as editing the party’s newsletter and organizing community outreach programs. In 1969, Afeni was arrested and charged with conspiracy to bomb several New York City landmarks as part of the Panther 21. She chose to represent herself in court and was acquitted of all charges in 1971, gaining respect for her intelligence and legal acumen. After the birth of her son, Tupac, Afeni continued her activism, focusing on social justice, women’s rights, and anti-drug campaigns. Following Tupac’s death in 1996, Afeni founded the Tupac Amaru Shakur Foundation and Amaru Entertainment, ensuring her son’s legacy would continue. She managed Tupac’s estate and oversaw several posthumous releases of his work. Afeni’s life was a testament to resilience, activism, and the relentless pursuit of justice.
5 Interesting Facts about Afeni Shakur
1. Afeni Shakur was a leader in the Black Panther Party and helped to organize the Panther 21, a group of Black Panther members arrested for allegedly planning bombings in New York City.
2. She represented herself in court during the Panther 21 trial and was acquitted of all charges after spending 11 months in jail.
3. Afeni Shakur was the mother of Tupac Shakur, one of the most influential rappers of all time.
4. After Tupac’s death, Afeni founded the Tupac Amaru Shakur Foundation to support arts education and community activism.
5. Afeni managed Tupac’s estate and was responsible for preserving and releasing much of his posthumous musical work.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Afeni Shakur
1. “I learned that we can do anything, but we can’t do everything… at least not at the same time.”
2. “Don’t focus on the struggle, focus on the progress.”
3. “I guarantee that I will spark the brain that will change the world. That’s our job, to spark somebody else watching us.”
4. “I am not a victim. It’s not my destiny to be one.”
5. “We must learn to live together as brothers or perish together as fools.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
Afeni Shakur’s highest net worth was estimated to be around $50 million, primarily from managing Tupac Shakur’s estate and posthumous releases.
Children
Afeni Shakur had two children: 1. Tupac Shakur (June 16, 1971 – September 13, 1996): Renowned rapper and actor who remains one of the most influential artists in the history of hip-hop. 2. Sekyiwa Shakur: Tupac’s half-sister, who has also been involved in managing Tupac’s legacy and the Tupac Amaru Shakur Foundation.
Relevant Links
1. [Afeni Shakur Biography on Biography.com](https://www.biography.com/activist/afeni-shakur
3. [Tupac Amaru Shakur Foundation](http://www.tasf.org/