DEAR HARRIETTE: We just lost a huge leader and influencer in the black community. He went by the stage name Nipsey Hussle, and he was only 33 years old. His death has devastated many, including myself, even though I did not personally know him.
Hussle was working on a documentary about the late holistic practitioner Dr. Sebi, which would expose a lot of truths about the medical and pharmaceutical industries. He advocated for his people and worked on providing a positive environment for the kids of Los Angeles. This is a pattern I have noticed with black leaders: They take initiative but are brought down too soon.
I know being upset won't do anything about it unless I back it up with action. What can I do as an individual to step up for the black community and continue the initiatives of our great fallen leaders? -- Carrying the Torch
DEAR CARRYING THE TORCH: First, I must say that it is tragic that Nipsey Hussle was murdered. He was one of the good ones -- a change agent who was devoted to his community and to holistic healing. One ray of light is that the entertainer Nick Cannon is reportedly going to ensure that the documentary about Dr. Sebi will be completed. Sebi is another one gone too soon. Though not an actual doctor, he devoted his life to discovering ways to heal the body and, in turn, the community, and he died under suspicious circumstances after stating that he had found a cure for HIV and AIDS.
What you and others can do in the face of this tragedy is to live an authentic life and devote some time to a cause that will support humanity. Be a better person. Donate your time and energy to making the world a better place. Keep Nipsey Hussle’s memory alive by talking about his good work. If a charity is established in his name, donate to that entity.