Remembering Nipsey Hussle & His Community Impact Five Years Since His Death

Late rapper Nipsey Hussle left a hole in the hearts of fans worldwide when he was shockingly gunned down on March 31st, 2019. Though Nip was known for records such as “Dedication” and “Grinding All My Life,” his impact on the community attracted just as many supporters. Before the Grammy Award winner’s life was cut short, Nipsey spent years spreading his resources to those in need.

During a November 2018 interview with “Good Day L.A.,”  the rapper gave cameras a tour of 59th Street Elementary School, which he’d revamped in collaboration with Puma. He’d also donated $10,000 to the school. Good deeds such as these were not the first nor last time that Nip showed up for his Crenshaw neighborhood, which was the inspiration behind his Marathon clothing line and much of his music career. 

Nipsey worked hard to find solutions for many of his people to escape poverty. Among his most significant accomplishments was the establishment of the Vector90 STEM center, which aims to give young people from underprivileged communities the chance to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and math. 

Before his death, Nipsey also denounced violence in the area. He participated in several anti-gun violence rallies. His message of peace had gone on for years, dating back to 2012 when a shooting at Clubhouse Music Venue shut down the club where he was slated to perform. He was still at his hotel when the gunfire broke out and expressed his sympathy to the victims shortly after. Years later, Nipsey organized a meeting with Steve Soboroff, president of the Los Angeles Police Commission, Los Angeles Police Department Chief Michel Moore, and entertainment company Roc Nation to address ways to decrease gang violence in the adored area where he grew up. Sadly, he would not live to see the sit-down take place. 

Additionally, Nipsey employed many people in the community through his multiple businesses. During a July 2018 episode of “The Midas Touch,” powered through World Star Hip-Hop, Nipsey showcased his love for his staff, showering one long-term employee with a day of pampering and shopping. 

As the fifth anniversary of Nipsey Hussle’s tragic death approaches, let us pay tribute to the lasting legacy he left behind in Los Angeles and beyond. Hussle’s influence is still very much felt today due to his charitable work and records that support ownership, change, and pursuing your ambitions.