" People can like him or not like him individually. But I need for them to know that he was a person of substance, and he was worthy, and he was a good son and a good brother and a good participant in the community. "
- Afeni Shakur

In the given quote, Afeni Shakur speaks about her thoughts on a person she cares deeply about. She believes that it's important for people to recognize this individual's qualities and contributions beyond any personal likes or dislikes they might have towards him. Essentially, she wants others to acknowledge his integrity, worthiness, and positive roles within the family and community.

The deeper meaning of Afeni Shakur’s statement lies in her emphasis on the intrinsic value and essence of a person rather than superficial judgments based on individual preferences. She underscores that regardless of personal opinions or biases, it is crucial to see the full spectrum of someone's character and contributions. This perspective highlights the importance of understanding and appreciating the holistic impact an individual has on those around them and the broader community. By doing so, she invites others to consider a person’s integrity, moral fiber, familial roles, and civic engagement rather than judging based solely on surface-level impressions or personal feelings.

Afeni Shakur is best known as the mother of Tupac Shakur, the influential American rapper who left an indelible mark on hip-hop culture. As a political activist herself during her younger years, Afeni has been vocal about defending and celebrating her son’s legacy and character, often addressing public perceptions with poignant reflections like this quote. Her words serve not only as a tribute to Tupac but also reflect her broader advocacy for understanding people beyond surface-level judgments.