Rapper and activist Nipsey Hussle was fatally shot in Los Angeles on March 31.
The vibe in L.A. has been downbeat following the passing of a beloved hometown favorite.
But on the brighter side, fans from all over the world joined together in an online petition to rename the intersection where Hussle’s store, the Marathon Clothing Company sits. The petition had over 500,000 signatures in less than 10 days.
Los Angeles City Councilman Marqueece Harris-Dawson announced on Tuesday that the intersection of Crenshaw Boulevard and West Slauson Avenue in South L.A. will be named Ermias “Nipsey Hussle” Asghedom Square.
The 2019 Grammy-nominated rapper began his career in the parking lot of this intersection, selling his mixtapes out of the trunk of a car – the same parking lot where he also, unfortunately, took his lasts breaths. Earlier this year, he just closed the deal in owning the entire strip mall.
“Ermias Asghedom, known as ‘Nipsey Hussle,’ was an icon and West Coast hero,” Harris-Dawson said in a statement, according to the L.A. Times. “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.”
The motion to name the intersection of Crenshaw and Slauson as “Nipsey Hussle Square” will be officially submitted this week.