Travis Scott has made a promise to breathe new life into the iconic Freedom Skatepark in Accra, Ghana, which was originally founded by the late Virgil Abloh, whose passing in November 2021 left a void. The deeply beloved skatepark, a tribute to Abloh’s enduring legacy, is currently in danger of closing down, prompting the proactive efforts of the Houston rapper to help preserve this essential cultural space.
On Jan. 5, Wole Olosunde took to Instagram to shed light on the urgent need to save Freedom Skatepark in Accra, Ghana. It was established by Virgil Abloh just before his untimely passing and it now faces the threat of closure.
The influential New York-based designer posted an image depicting a concrete wall and sand poured inside the park to prevent skaters from using it:
“The Irony of Freedom. Finally got to visit FREEDOM, the skate park Virgil Abloh built in Accra, Ghana. One of his last projects before he passed. I left heartbroken and confused,” Olosunde wrote.
Olosunde passionately expressed, “Cause why tf is no one talking about or fighting for this? Another owner has shown up, stormed the park & built a cement wall then poured sand through the park to keep all skaters out.”
Travis Scott responded to Olosunde’s post, demonstrating his support for the cause, “MANNN WHATT WHAT WE DOINNNNNGGGGGGGG LET ME KNOW WHAT WE GOTTA DO TO GET MY BROTHER PARK BACK GOING PLEASSSSSEEEEEEE.” Olosunde reciprocated with “ITS TIME” in response. Much of the comment section rejoiced at Scott’s commitment to save the skatepark in Ghana.
The Freedom Skatepark was not just a place for skateboarding but also a thriving community center, providing local children with free Wi-Fi, masterclasses, and recording studio time. The venue served as a space where creativity and dreams became reality. The addition of a community center made Scott’s efforts to save the skatepark even more significant.
Interestingly, hip-hop artist Kendrick Lamar previously featured his visit to Freedom Skatepark in his Spotify mini-documentary A Day in Ghana. The documentary highlighted the vibrant skateboarding scene at the park and underscored its importance as a safe space for local youth.
Scott’s dedication is commendable, and there have been no official plans announced yet regarding the reopening of the skatepark.
Additionally, Travis Scott’s dedication to restoring Virgil Abloh’s skatepark in Africa mirrors the dedication of Memphis rapper NLE Choppa, who has spoken in favor of a similar skate park initiative.
Check out Travis’ incredible work below: