The news of Assata Shakur’s death in Cuba has left a wave of heartbreak across social media. To so many, she was more than a political activist or a member of the Black Panther Party and Black Liberation Army. She was a revolutionary spirit, a guiding light, and a mother whose legacy extended far beyond her own life.

“Fresh Prince of Bel Air” actress Tatyana Ali shared how deeply Shakur’s words shaped her journey. 

“On a plane, crying in my hoodie because I read that Assata Shakur has passed on. Her writing changed my trajectory and helped me turn my anger and pain to a deep spiritual loving. Keep our sister close to you Lord and rest her soul. Link to her memoir: loom.ly/0cvo3TQ.”

Others online reflected on the freedom Shakur represented. 

“Assata Shakur joins the ancestors a free woman,” one user wrote. “She was never bound by the carceral system and did not pass away in a land that disrespected her. Assata taught us that liberation cannot be bargained for, it must be taken. Rest free, Assata.”

For many, her words still heal deep wounds. Another user shared, “Whenever I feel sad and depressed about the systemic anti-Blackness we face, I read Mother Assata Shakur’s letter to Black people and it feels like all is okay again. True revolutionaries never die, we carry on their work in our hearts.”

Her daughter, Kakuya Shakur, also spoke through her grief on Facebook, confirming her mother’s passing. “At approximately 1:15 PM on September 25th, my mother, Assata Shakur, took her last earthly breath. Words cannot describe the depth of loss that I am feeling at this time. I want to thank you for your loving prayers that continue to anchor me in the strength that I need in this moment. My spirit is overflowing in unison with all of you who are grieving with me.”