Los Angeles’s Crenshaw Boulevard and West Slauson Avenue is being renamed in Nipsey Hussle’s honor, the Los Angeles City Council announced Tuesday.
The intersection represents the area where Hussle rose to prominence as a rapper, thwarted violence as a community activist, and thrived as an entrepreneur. It is also the place where he tragically lost his life last month.
Born Ermias Asghedom, Hussle was murdered last month outside of his business, the Marathon Store, which is located next to the intersection. He was 33.
His death has left the community deeply wounded. Residents, politicians, and members of law enforcement have openly mourned the loss. Vigils have taken place at the scene of the crime where fans have left behind tokens of appreciation including flowers, balloons and lit candles.
An international petition with over 500,000 signatures coming from places including China, Australia, Canada, and Brazil appeared online shortly after Hussle’s passing urging the intersection’s name to be changed.
“Ermias Asghedom known as ‘Nipsey Hussle’ was an icon and West Coast hero,” said Los Angeles Councilmember Marqueece Harris-Dawson. “Nipsey’s genuine nature allowed him to be a light to everyone he interacted with from family, friends, fans, and his larger community.”
“As a father, brother, and son, Nipsey was a rock helping to build an empire that will continue through generations. Nipsey will always be remembered for delivering a pure, authentic Los Angeles sound, his numerous philanthropic efforts, his innovative, community-focused business mindset, and his humble heart,” continued Harris-Dawson.
The Grammy-nominated artist was a major investor in South Los Angeles, where Hussle had grand redevelopment plans for his property on Slauson Avenue. He co-founded Vector90, the first co-working space in South Los Angeles, and contributed to the developing of its STEM program for youth.
Hussle developed a relationship with Harris-Dawson while working as a devoted advocate for the South LA historic “Destination Crenshaw” project. Named by Hussle, the project will celebrate the culture and preserve the history of Los Angeles’ Black population. He hoped that Crenshaw would be rebranded as a go-to destination, which would result in commuters and tourists riding the Metro LAX Line stopping in the neighborhood, and spending their dollars in the community he loved so dearly.
In addition to facilitating the name of the intersection being changed, the Los Angeles City Council will adjurn its meeting in honor of Hussle. This action will officially cement his contributions to the city of Los Angeles and the world into the public record permanently.
Long live Nipsey.
