Local Vigil, Moment of Silence Held to Mark 15th Anniversary of Devastating Haiti Earthquake
A Commemoration of Resilience and Strength
Dozens of people gathered in Miami’s Little Haiti neighborhood on Sunday afternoon to hold a moment of silence and vigil to mark the 15th anniversary of the devastating 2010 Haiti earthquake. The event, hosted by the Family Action Network Movement, was a remembrance of that tragic day and a reflection on the resilience and strength of the Haitian people.
A Tragic Day that Changed Lives Forever
The earthquake struck at 4:53 p.m. on January 12, 2010, causing widespread destruction and chaos. The 7.0 magnitude quake left about 220,000 dead and 300,000 injured, with over a million people left without a place to call home. A quarter-million homes and 30,000 buildings, including the presidential palace, were damaged or destroyed.
A Legacy of Infrastructure Problems and Challenges
Fifteen years on, the infrastructure problems caused by the earthquake persist, compounded by gang violence and government corruption. The country continues to face significant challenges, and organizers called for broad support for Haiti amid these difficulties.
A Message of Hope and Support
North Miami Beach Commissioner Daniela Jean, who attended the vigil, emphasized the importance of not losing hope and finding ways to support Haitians, both in the country and abroad. “We find ways to send them support, financial support, and food as well,” she said. “We’re hoping that Haitians all across the world, especially those in Haiti, will not lose hope, and that a solution will soon come to allow them to have a life like all of us live here in the United States.”
A Call to Action
Organizers also called for broad support for Haiti, urging individuals to stand in solidarity with the Haitian people and advocate for change. “We’re here to let them know we will never forget them, that we’re still fighting for them, and that we hold them in our heart, and we will always be championing and fighting for them,” said Linda Joseph, an organizer with the Family Action Network Movement.
Conclusion
The vigil and moment of silence served as a powerful reminder of the devastating impact of the Haiti earthquake and the ongoing challenges faced by the Haitian people. As the country continues to rebuild and recover, it is essential that individuals and organizations around the world continue to offer support and advocate for change.
FAQs
* What was the magnitude of the Haiti earthquake?
+ The earthquake had a magnitude of 7.0.
* How many people were killed in the earthquake?
+ Approximately 220,000 people were killed in the earthquake.
* How many people were injured in the earthquake?
+ Approximately 300,000 people were injured in the earthquake.
* What was the impact of the earthquake on infrastructure in Haiti?
+ The earthquake damaged or destroyed over a quarter-million homes and 30,000 buildings, including the presidential palace, causing significant infrastructure problems that persist to this day.
