DMV helps Haiti

As Haiti continuously struggles to recover and make sense of the 7.0 magnitude earthquake that struck the poor island. Local establishments are doing everything they can do to help.

The effects of January's catastrophic earthquake in Haiti are tragic to say the least, and people all over the world are doing whatever they can to help out.

"We may live thousands of miles away but here in the District, there are plenty things you can do to show your support for the relief efforts," shouted a member of the crowd.

It's been over a month since the 7.0 earthquake hit the southern part of Haiti, completely destroying its capital of Port Au Prince.

On Saturday January 17th, 2010 just days after the quake Busboys and Poets organized the "DMV helps Haiti," to raise money for the destruction in Haiti. Local artists came together in the media room at the 14th street and V street location for an uplifting and emotional open mic at Busboys and Poets on 14th and V street northwest. The event was hosted by the popular radio station in the district 93.9 FM station WKYS's DJ Quicksilva. Along with the spoken word performances, community members presented statistics as well as inspirational stories about recovering despair.

"It was very touching to hear all of the inspirational stories. I felt like there was a true connection between everyone in the room. It was nice to see African American people unite as a collective group," said Evelyn Graham, a resident of the Ledroit Park neighborhood.


The event included performances by MTV's "Making the Band" season contestant D'Angela Redman, poet Benny Blaq, and Komplex.

"It was a treat to see all of these performers contribute to a good cause. This was not like any other open mic night. It was very educational. Community leaders were there discussing the statistics of Haiti as a country," said Ezenwanyi Onwuzuruoha , a visitor of the District.

The event was co-sponsored by the TransAfrica Forum. The benefit raised over 4,000 for Haiti. Nicole Leeks, president of TransAfrica was proud to be given the opportunity to co-sponsor this event.

Individuals present were allowed to stand as members of their family in Haiti were honored and remembered.

During the event, Ricardo Noel, a student from the Haitian Student Association at Howard University mentioned the upcoming benefit concert with Wale. As soon as he was done making this announcement the room was filled with applause and cheers.

"It is amazing to see how the Howard University community is coming together to help their 'brothers and sisters' out. These students don't understand how much of a difference that they are making," said Joshua Polk, a local resident.