By Edwin Freeman
Photos: Edwin Freeman
In a powerful display of community advocacy, Queens District 28 City Council Candidate Latoya LeGrand has succeeded where others could not, helping the family of slain rap star Raymond “Freaky Tah” Rogers achieve their long-sought goal of honoring his legacy through a street co-naming in Southeast Queens.
The intersection of 134th Avenue and Guy R. Brewer Boulevard—a street that also claims fame as childhood home to hip-hop mogul 50 Cent—was officially co-named “Raymond ‘Freaky Tah’ Rogers Way” Saturday in a ceremony that drew hundreds of community members, political figures, activists, and music industry representatives.
For the Rogers family, the moment marked the end of a frustrating three-year journey that found resolution thanks to LeGrand’s decisive intervention and the support of Executive Community Board members who recognized the cultural significance of the tribute.
“When the family came to me and shared their story of hitting roadblock after roadblock for three years, I knew I had to help,” said LeGrand, currently serving as a Community Board 12 member. “This wasn’t just about renaming a street—it was about honoring a cultural icon who represented the voice of our community.”
Remarkably, after meeting with the Rogers family and hearing their plight, LeGrand arranged a meeting within just three days—a stark contrast to the years of unsuccessful attempts the family had previously endured. While the entire approval process still took a couple of months to complete, it was a significant acceleration compared to the family’s previous three years of efforts without progress.
“Ms. LeGrand didn’t just listen to us—she acted,” said Mini Rogers, mother of the late artist. “After three years of being ignored, she met with us within three days and got the process moving. That speaks volumes about her commitment to this community.”
Freaky Tah, a founding member of the Grammy Award-winning hip-hop group Lost Boyz, was tragically gunned down in 1999 at the age of 27, cutting short a promising career that had already left an indelible mark on the music industry and his Queens neighborhood.
The ceremony featured emotional tributes from Lost Boyz members Mr. Cheeks, Pretty Lou, and Spigg Nice, along with other notable figures from the hip-hop community who credited Rogers with putting Southeast Queens on the map through authentic storytelling and innovative sound.
LeGrand, the only African American woman running in the upcoming District 28 City Council race set for June 24, 2025, has deep roots in Southeast Queens. As Founder and Executive Director of Projects II Projects, a community-based nonprofit organization, she has consistently advocated for neighborhood improvements and cultural recognition.
“Our communities deserve representatives who understand their history and fight to preserve it,” LeGrand told the crowd gathered at the unveiling. “Raymond Rogers gave voice to our neighborhood’s challenges and triumphs through his music. Now, his name will continue to inspire future generations right here where his journey began.”
The street co-naming represents more than just a memorial; for many in attendance, it symbolizes recognition of hip-hop culture’s significance to the fabric of Queens and acknowledgment of the often-overlooked contributions of Black artists to New York City’s cultural landscape.
“What Ms. LeGrand accomplished here shows what can happen when elected officials truly listen to community needs,” said hip-hop historian and longtime Queens resident Marcus Wilson. “The Executive Community Board members recognized the importance of this initiative as well, proving that when leadership prioritizes cultural heritage, meaningful change can happen. This street sign might seem small to outsiders, but for us, it’s about claiming our rightful place in the cultural history of this city.”
As LeGrand continues her campaign for City Council, this achievement has resonated with voters seeking representation that honors community heritage while addressing present-day challenges. Those interested in learning more about her campaign or getting involved can visit her website.
“Sometimes the most meaningful changes aren’t about grand policies but about respect,” LeGrand remarked as the new street sign was unveiled to thunderous applause. “Today, we respect the legacy of Raymond Rogers, the persistent love of his family, and the cultural contributions that have made Southeast Queens a landmark in hip-hop history.”
The June election will determine whether LeGrand’s community-centered approach will earn her a seat on the City Council, but regardless of outcome, her successful advocacy for the Rogers family has already cemented her reputation as an effective champion for Southeast Queens residents.
Edwin Freeman is a senior cultural affairs correspondent for Black Star News covering arts, music, and community development in New York City’s outer boroughs.
