Tina Knowles Recalls Night Her Brother Was Beaten by Police: How ‘It Changed My Family Forever’ (Exclusive)

Tina Knowles Shares Heart-Wrenching Tale of Police Brutality in New Memoir

Tina Knowles, the mother of singers Beyoncé and Solange, has recently disclosed a harrowing incident from her past that continues to haunt her to this day. Growing up in Galveston, Texas, amidst a backdrop of racial segregation and discrimination, Knowles recounts the terrifying night when her older brother, Lumis “Skip” Joseph Beyoncé, was violently beaten by the police in 1967. This traumatic event has left a lasting impact on her family and shaped their lives forever.

In her memoir titled “Matriarch,” Knowles delves into the vivid memories of her Southern upbringing, shedding light on the stark realities of racism and injustice that plagued her childhood. Despite the outward image of grace and poise she exudes today, Knowles reflects on her rebellious nature as a child, earning herself the moniker “Bad Ass Tenie B” due to her outspoken and fearless spirit.

Recalling her experiences at a Catholic grade school where she faced harsh discipline from nuns intent on breaking her spirit, Knowles reminisces about her early determination to defy the odds and emerge as a warrior. As the youngest of five siblings, navigating life as a Black girl in a segregated society posed numerous challenges, but Knowles credits her fighting spirit for carrying her through those tumultuous times.

The pivotal moment that forever altered the course of her family’s history occurred when her brother Skip, mistakenly dropped off at the wrong address by a taxi, was unjustly targeted by the police. Despite pleas from a concerned neighbor affirming Skip’s innocence, the officers proceeded to arrest him with unnecessary aggression, leaving him battered and bloodied in their custody.

Knowles vividly recalls her mother’s anguished cries as she begged the one Black officer present not to let them harm her son, a heart-wrenching scene etched in her memory. The aftermath of the incident cast a shadow of fear and anxiety over the family, resulting in years of police harassment and constant vigilance.

Nurtured by the unwavering love and support of her family, Knowles found strength in the face of adversity and injustice. Despite the hardships they endured, she emphasizes the profound impact of familial bonds and faith in shaping her resilient spirit and capacity for joy and love.

Reflecting on her journey, Knowles acknowledges the profound influence of her upbringing in defining her outlook on life. While her parents may not have espoused lofty aspirations for her, instilling instead the value of family and resilience, Knowles attributes her ability to find joy and gratitude amidst life’s challenges to these foundational lessons.

As she continues to navigate life’s ups and downs, Knowles remains a staunch advocate for social justice and racial equality, drawing upon her own experiences to champion causes that seek to empower and uplift marginalized communities. Through her memoir and public disclosures, Knowles hopes to inspire others to confront the painful truths of the past and forge a path towards healing and reconciliation.

In the face of adversity, Tina Knowles stands as a beacon of strength and resilience, embodying the enduring power of love, family, and unwavering faith in the pursuit of justice and equality. Her courage in sharing her story serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of hope and perseverance in the face of adversity.