Afeni Shakur, the mother of fallen rap icon Tupac Shakur, was reportedly arrested on drug charges a little over a week ago.

The 63 year old former Black Panther is slated to appear in a North Carolina courtroom next month to face felony possession of marijuana, simple possession of a controlled substance and maintaining a vehicle, dwelling or place for a controlled substance.

Authorities disclosed Afeni was released on $10,000 bail and is expected to appear in court on May 10, 2010.

While they always seemed to have a healthy releationship as mother and son, there’s no doubt 2pac was affected by Afeni’s past as a user. In fact, in one of his most passionate moments – “Dear Mama” – the charismatic rapper disclosed her affliction and forgave her all at once.

To the day, Afeni continues her son’s legacy with the Tupac Amaru Foundation, which is geared toward assisting children with a passion for performing arts.

Actor/comedian Mike Epps is riding high from the success of his recent movie box smash, Next Day Air and the release of his new stand up, Inappropriate Behavior. It stands to reason, however, he is even more elated at the thought of paying homage to Tupac Shakur – one of hip hop’s most captivating artists ever.

Epps, alongside Afeni Shakur, will celebrate a posthumous birthday party for the fallen rap legend on June 16, 2009 at the Tupac Amaru Center for the Arts, complete with a concert featuring the likes of Young Jeezy, Big Boi, Ludacris and many more.

“[Pac’s music’s] always been the soundtrack for overcoming struggle and when my life was in a desolate place it was his messages that helped bring me through,” Epss said in a recent press statement, expressing his adoration for the charismatic rap icon.

“I wouldn’t be where I am today if it wasn’t for his inspiration. It’s an honor for me to stand alongside his mother, Afeni Shakur in celebrating such a personal moment in her son’s history.”

Tickets are available for $25 via Ticketmaster and tasf.org.