Remembering Arthur Folasa Ah Loo: A Tribute to a Creative Visionary and Philanthropist
A tragic incident occurred during a protest in Salt Lake City, Utah, where 39-year-old Arthur Folasa Ah Loo, a fashion designer and former "Project Runway" contestant, was fatally shot by a stray bullet. The shooting took place at a "No Kings" protest, where shots were fired by individuals carrying firearms, resulting in Ah Loo being hit in the stomach and later succumbing to his injuries at the hospital. The circumstances surrounding the presence of a self-identified "peacekeeping" team and the shooter remain under investigation by the Salt Lake City police.
Arthur Folasa Ah Loo, known as Afa, was a passionate advocate for artists from the Pacific Islands and had dedicated his life to promoting their work. He leaves behind a wife and two children, with a GoFundMe page set up by his family raising over $205,000 to support them. Ah Loo's impact on his community was profound, as described by State Rep. Verona Mauga, who highlighted his commitment to uplifting marginalized communities and fostering unity through culture and diversity.
Ah Loo co-founded Create Pacific, an organization aimed at supporting artists from the Pacific Islands, with collaborator Benjamin Powell. Powell praised Ah Loo's distinctive design aesthetic and shared plans for an upcoming fashion show that will honor Ah Loo's legacy. Despite his untimely death, Ah Loo's creative spirit and generosity continue to inspire those who knew him, including Hawaiian actor Auliʻi Cravalho, for whom he designed a custom outfit.
In addition to his work in the fashion industry, Ah Loo was known for his philanthropic efforts, creating clothing for those in need and refusing payment for his services. His impact on the Polynesian community was profound, with fellow representatives and community members expressing their condolences and admiration for his contributions. The loss of Arthur Folasa Ah Loo has left a void in the hearts of many, but his legacy of compassion and creativity will endure through the lives he touched.