In many ways, South Los Angeles remains in a state of mourning. Many watched as Nipsey Hussle’s family encouraged, uplifted, and comforted mourners with their public statements made since his death. Their heartfelt compassion was evident when they called on all attending and those watching to “be strong” and to “comfort” others during this loss to the community.
Hussle’s death has also placed a spotlight on the grieving process. Grief requires support as one manages unexpected and often extreme stress. Many fans of Hussle are working to turn that grief into something positive for the community. One example is the work taking place at the STEM Academy (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) at Vector 90 workspace. Vector 90 was created with Hussle’s colleague, David Gross, and lies just east of The Marathon Clothing Store on Slauson Avenue in South Los Angeles.
Coding his way to national recognition and partnership with Hussle was Iddris Sandu, the “architect” of the smart store who made it cooler to code an app than to just be a user of an application. Making culture in a technologically innovative way, Hussle helped to create and promote the concept of “Too Big To Fail” which will be a STEM center for South L.A. youth. Through Vector 90, hundreds of area youth have been exposed to the education technology needed for success in the 21st Century global economy. Plans are in the works for other STEM academies in Atlanta, Ga., Baltimore, Md., and in Washington, D.C.
In a February interview with Hot97-FM, Hussle talked about the effect that traveling to meet his Eritrean family had on him.
“My Dad is from Africa, but I was born in South Central L.A. I was turned cold, but I adapted to the culture,” Hussle said. “Naturally, that’s not who I am; the culture of gang bangin’ in L.A. None of us grow up [like that] as kids, we come from nurturing families. But there’s a lack of that and a ‘coldness’ you get from going outside and having to survive. You get in survival mode.’”
Since Hussle’s death, rival gang members have hosted rallies to encourage peace among the warring factions. More members of the community—particularly young people—are reportedly stepping forward with investments and initiatives championed by Hussle all with an eye on recirculating dollars within the community.
