On what would have been Tamir Rice’s 23rd birthday, a simple ask, $23 for 23 years, turned into something extraordinary.
Tamir Rice’s mother, Samaria Rice, launched a GoFundMe campaign to honor her son’s life and legacy by raising funds for the Tamir Rice Foundation, which she founded to empower Black youth through arts and culture.
Her mission? Turn grief into purpose. Build a safe, creative space for inner-city kids in Cleveland to grow, learn, and heal. The initial goal: $6,000. The reason: a building she purchased in Tamir’s name that needs community support to truly come alive.
Then Kyrie Irving stepped in.
The NBA star, known not just for his handles but for his unwavering commitment to social justice, dropped $50,000 on the fundraiser — without warning, without fanfare.
Tamir Rice was only 12 years old when he was killed by Cleveland police in 2014 while playing with a toy gun. His death became one of the earliest and most heartbreaking flashpoints in the modern movement against police violence. Though the officer, Timothy Loehmann, was never indicted, public outcry was massive. Tamir’s story galvanized the Black Lives Matter movement, and his mother has worked tirelessly ever since to turn pain into progress.
In her own words:
“I miss my son so much each and every day. I purchased a building in the city of Cleveland to give back to our inner-city youth with art and cultural developments… Our children need a safe place to express themselves through the arts and culture.”
While protests fade from the headlines, the work continues — and so does the grief.
And that’s what makes Kyrie’s donation hit even harder. It’s not just about the money (though $50K is nothing to sneeze at). It’s about showing up, showing love, and uplifting the legacy of a child whose life should’ve never been cut short.
Because Kyrie didn’t just talk about it. He did something about it.
To join the movement and support the Tamir Rice Foundation, you can donate here.
Photo Credit: DepositPhotos.com
