Black America, we need to get clear on something real quick. If you go on TikTok or any social media platform, there is a great deal of confusion on a particular issue. Don’t worry, this won’t take long. Many people online believe Assata Shakur, the Black revolutionary who recently died in Cuba, was mother of 2Pac or as must of us know him– Tupac. Keep reading, I have an answer.
Suggested Reading
Truth be told, it is the younger Black folks who are making this mistake. But before we judge too harshly, let’s admit that the confusion is understandable.
Tupac was the rapper who was born in New York City but fell so deep in love with the West Coast that he made the song California Love’s stage name. When he was born in 1971, his name was Lesane Parish Crooks. But when he turned one, his mother renamed him Tupac Amaru Shakur.
Pac’s mother, who died in 2016 at the age 69, was an incredible woman. Not only was she a member of the Black Panther Party, but she was also a part of the Panther 21. When she was born in North Carolina, her name was Alice Williams. But after her first marriage to Lumumba Shakur, she changed her name to Afeni Shakur.
OK. You with me? Tupac Shakur’s late mother was Afeni. So why is there confusion? Two reasons.
The last name Shakur was popular with Black revolutionaries in the 60s and 70s. The name Shakur originates from the Arabic word “shukr,” meaning “thankful” or “grateful.” And it was not just the last name of Tupac, Afeni and Assata, but also Lumumba, who was mentioned above, and Mutulu. Think of it like the Kesha or Amir of Black revolutionaries. The fact that Assata and Tupac had the same last name may be part of why there is some confusion. But that’s not the only reason.
Assata was a good friend of Tupac’s mom. So, the latter asked the former to be her son’s godmother.
My bad. That was me trying to be all poetic like the man who dissed Bad Boy as a staff, record label and as a mother****in’ crew. (I mean, the man did write The Rose That Grew from Concrete.)
Assata Shakur was Tupac’s godmother. So add that with the fact that they have the same last name, and you get the reason for the confusion.
Now that ya’ll know this, we best not see anyone born after Y2K talmbout R.I.P. to Tupac’s mom when you’re talking about Assata. If you do, it’s on sight.
Straight From 
Sign up for our free daily newsletter.