The Tupac Amaru Center For The Arts, located in Stone Mountain, Georgia, was vandalized twice in the last five days. At approximately 2:00 a.m., Saturday October 20, a noose was put around the statue of the slain rapper, located in the center’s Peace Garden. Forty eight hours later, additional vandalism, found in hateful writing and threats to other rappers and record labels were found in the same vicinity.
As of Tuesday morning, an unnamed male has been arrested by De Kalb County Police as a primary suspect. The sheriff has also openly stated the likelihood of several vandals involved. No motives have been revealed.
Tupac’s mother, Afeni Shakur told press the following: “We thank everyone for their prayers and support. Although our hearts are temporarily in pain, our spirits have already forgiven the perpetrators. Hate comes in all colors and genders therefore we will use this act of hate and ignorance to bring our community together and to pray for the healing of those who harbor such feelings. With God’s guidance, the work of the Tupac Amaru Shakur Center for the Arts and Peace Garden will continue to positively impact and transform our community.“
As a result of the incident, the center is now raising money for a fence to prevent such events from recurring. On November 10, the center will host its second bi-annual re-dedication of the Peace Garden, followed by film screenings and a discussion panel. More information can be found at www.tasf.org.
