In what has been an incredible year for Tupac Shakur, a street named Tupac Shakur Way can be added to the list. More than 27 years since his demise, Tupac has probably had a better year than most artists who are still alive today. From the Emmy nominated docuseries Dear Mama to a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and the recent release of his official biography, Tupac Shakur The Authorized Biography, and now a street named after him in Oakland.
On Friday, November 3rd, a section of MacArthur Boulevard near where he lived in the 1990s became Tupac Shakur Way. Although Tupac was born in New York and later moved to Baltimore, his Bay Area ties and love for the city is undeniable. Living in East Oakland in the late 80s, Tupac’s family were also active members in the Bay Area part of the Black Panther Party.
Among those in attendance were Digital Underground member Money B, Bay Area legend E-40 and another Oakland native, radio personality, Sway Calloway. All who had a personal relationship with Tupac Shakur.
“He influenced generations, not just one generation, but two more because he was the voice of our generation when we were young,” Money B said. “But it’s two more generations that weren’t alive when he was making music that are still being influenced by what he left behind.”
A peace pole representing peace throughout the community also accompanied the street naming. “Right now in the world and Oakland and across America, peace is the biggest way to show love. The biggest way to represent one another and who we are. My foundation started with my mother’s legacy. We donate peace poles around the country to communities who are in need of the reminder. Especially on this street and especially on this day under my brother’s name, my fear is that danger will happen underneath his name and people will be hurt underneath his name. Also leaving a peace pole reminding people that you are on Tupac Amaru Shakur Way and maybe that will calm hearts,” Sekyiwa Shakur explained during an interview with KTVU.
Others who were unable to attend to due to scheduling conflicts, reacted via social media platforms. “CONGRAJULATION LIL BRO, YOUR ENTIRE FAMILY & FANS KEPT YOUR NAME ON THE STREETS UP UNTIL THEY PUT YOUR NAME ON A STREET!! DAT PART OAKTOWN!!,” wrote Treach of Naughty By Nature on Instagram sharing the incredible moment.
Outlawz member, Young Noble also took to his official IG account to recognize his friend Tupac Shakur’s latest accomplishment. “Congratulations to my bro Pac for receiving his own Street yesterday in Oakland 💪🏿❤️💪🏿 Big shoutout to my sis @wildseed13 for all the work bein done behind the scenes!!”
