If 2Pac Were Alive Today

Where Would He Be ?

letter #17

2 Pac's early tapes were the influence of his panther background and his mother's social and political consciousness. Even his divergence into gangstah' rap was his way of enlightening folks that crime and revolution have one thing in common...you got to fight for everything you want. Today, 2 Pac would have been a dilemma for both the arts and the political arena as his Makiaval album reveals the educating quality of his rap. The big screen image he portrayed was of a complex black of dual qualities -- one street-wise, the other sophisticated and politically aware. He would utilize both of these qualities to make the young generations think about their actions and the consequences. He would not so subtly remind folks that there can be no peace without dignity and let no one step to you without a consequence. His messages are still relevant in certain groups across the racial spectrum. He would have moved people to oppose the Diallo and Dorismond outcomes with action rather than words. He would challenge the young about their courage in the face of repression. His rap would have become much more political and reflective of those pitiful current events with a focus to a solution that would have created consternation among many moderate "leaders". He would not have compromised, it was not his style. His expression would have lead many to agree with him and probably act with him to demand justice, equality and respect now, or else.

Robert Collier