This week, Tamir Rice should have been celebrating his 23rd birthday. Though his life was cut short at just 12 years old, his name and legacy continue to fuel change. His mother, Samaria Rice, has turned unimaginable loss into purpose, founding the Tamir Rice Foundation to invest in the growth, creativity, and future of Black children in Cleveland and beyond, The Black Wall Street Times reports.
In honor of what would’ve been his 23rd year, Samaria launched a 23 for 23 fundraiser, asking supporters to donate $23 in Tamir’s memory. The funds will support the Tamir Rice Afrocentric Cultural Center, a space she purchased in Cleveland to pour resources into the next generation through art, culture, and community programming.
The fundraiser quickly gained momentum thanks to supporters on social media, including entrepreneur Kiandria Demone, who encouraged people to give. The effort reached new heights on Tamir’s birthday when NBA star Kyrie Irving stepped in with a powerful $50,000 donation. By Thursday afternoon, the total had soared to over $87,000, inching closer to the $110,000 goal.
Those wishing to contribute can visit the GoFundMe page at the link in bio at @tamirricefoundation.
Cover photo: Community Rallies to Raise Thousands for Tamir Rice’s Legacy on His 23rd Birthday / Photo Credit: Medium