own foundation. In conjunction with the Good Tidings Foundation, Jackson unveiled the Stephen Jackson Basketball Court at Omega Boys Club in San Francisco, California on April 11, 2008. Additionally, in honor of Jackson's continued commitment to the Bay Area community, San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom proclaimed Saturday, April 12, 2008 – the day after the unveiling – as Stephen Jackson Day. Jackson established the Stephen Jackson Academy of Art, Science, and Technology in the summer of 2008. New construction for the school was completed in 2009; as of 2012, the academy offers after-school programs for local children and houses a gymnasium for public use. In order to pursue educational accreditation, Jackson plans to expand the academy. According to The Port Arthur News, new construction will likely commence by the end of 2012. Jackson was a close friend of George Floyd, who drew international attention when he was killed by police in Minneapolis on May 25, 2020. Jackson received media attention for an impassioned speech he gave at a protest rally in Minnesota. In it, he stated, "I'm here because they're not gonna demean the character of George Floyd, my twin." Jackson and Floyd called each other "Twin" due to their similar physical appearance. Jackson described himself as inspired by Malcolm X, who is described as "the biggest reason for the continuation of Islam in the African-American community." Jackson stated, "Every black man is influenced by Malcolm X. When you are growing up and hear the story of Malcolm X, you are influenced by Malcolm X, and by Islam, in some type of way. For me, I am of course influenced by Malcolm X. It is impossible for me not to be...I do not see myself just following him. I want to be greater than Malcolm X. Even when I say that, it might be damn near impossible, because the man was so special. Malcolm X was so special. I strive to be like him or even better than him. And for you to say that he is the most respected American Muslim ever, I strive to be that. I plan to be that." References External links Jackson's official website 1978 births Living people 21st-century American rappers African-American basketball players African-American male rappers American expatriate basketball people in Australia American expatriate basketball people in the Dominican Republic American expatriate basketball people in Venezuela American men's basketball players Atlanta Hawks players Basketball