Humanitarian of the Year Award: Quavo’s Fight Against Gun Violence
Quavo has received the prestigious title of ‘Humanitarian of the Year’ during the eighth annual Variety Hitmakers Brunch, a high-profile event that took place on December 7 at Nya Studios in Hollywood. This recognition highlights his significant contributions to society and showcases his commitment to making a difference through charitable endeavors.
The award honors the GRAMMY-nominated rapper and philanthropist’s impactful advocacy against gun violence, a cause he passionately took up following the heartbreaking loss of his nephew and fellow Migos member, Takeoff, in 2022. Quavo’s efforts reflect a deep personal motivation, transforming his grief into a powerful movement aimed at fostering positive change and saving lives in communities affected by violence.
The award was presented by Greg Jackson, the Deputy Director of the White House Office of Gun Violence Prevention, who commended Quavo’s relentless dedication to fighting the gun violence crisis through his Rocket Foundation. Established in November 2022 in memory of Takeoff, the foundation aims to support community initiatives aimed at reducing gun violence and has emerged as a formidable force for change within just two years. This recognition not only honors Quavo’s efforts but also sheds light on the urgent need for community-based solutions to this pervasive issue.
Quavo’s initiatives have led to significant improvements in communities at both local and national scales. In March, the Rocket Foundation launched the Sparks Grants program, providing $10,000 each to ten Atlanta organizations that are committed to fostering safer communities. Furthermore, during the summer, Quavo collaborated with the Offender Alumni Association to conduct a music education workshop aimed at empowering at-risk youth, as part of the innovative Rocket Camp initiative. These efforts illustrate his commitment to using his platform and resources to create meaningful change and inspire future generations.
On a broader scale, Quavo’s advocacy has played a crucial role in the formation of the White House Office of Gun Violence Prevention. His contributions highlight the importance of celebrity influence in shaping public policy and raising awareness about gun violence, which has become a critical issue across the nation. By leveraging his platform, Quavo aims to initiate discussions and drive legislative change that addresses the root causes of this epidemic.
In September 2023, Quavo had a significant meeting with Vice President Kamala Harris during the Congressional Black Caucus legislative conference. He also hosted the inaugural Rocket Foundation Summit on Gun Violence Prevention in Atlanta earlier in the year. His participation in these events showcases his commitment to advocacy at the highest levels of government. Additionally, Quavo joined Vice President Harris at a rally to promote the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, which represents one of the most comprehensive federal gun control measures in U.S. history, further solidifying his role as a prominent advocate for meaningful change.
The Rocket Foundation collaborates with various organizations, including the Offender Alumni Association, H.O.P.E. Hustlers, Community Justice Action Fund, and LIVE FREE. Together, they work tirelessly to tackle gun violence through community-driven solutions. These partnerships exemplify the collaborative effort required to address such a complex issue and highlight the foundation’s commitment to fostering sustainable change through grassroots initiatives.
Beyond his impactful advocacy work, Quavo continues to be a significant figure in the music and entertainment industry. As a vital member of Migos, he has achieved multiple No. 1 hits on the Billboard charts and has collaborated with renowned artists such as Justin Bieber, Travis Scott, and Post Malone. His influence in the music scene remains strong, with fans celebrating his contributions and artistic vision.
Recently, Quavo has pursued solo projects that feature collaborations with artists like Lana Del Rey, Peso Pluma, and Lenny Kravitz, showcasing his remarkable ability to blend genres while honoring his Atlanta roots. Moreover, his versatility extends beyond music to acting, with notable appearances in popular series such as Atlanta, Black-ish, and films like Praise This. This multifaceted career reflects his dynamic talent and enduring influence in the entertainment world.