In response to ongoing gang violence in Haiti and a longstanding political crisis, public radio stations in the U.S. are launching a special call-in program titled “HAITI ON THE LINE.” This initiative invites Haitian listeners to share their experiences and insights, featuring experts and community leaders to discuss the challenges faced by Haitians. The program will air on February 24 and aims to foster dialogue about the current situation in Haiti.
The recent escalation of gang-related violence in Haiti has tragically resulted in the deaths of over 5,000 individuals within the last year. The country has been embroiled in a prolonged political crisis, leaving not only citizens in Haiti but also those with ties to the country in the United States facing uncertainty in both realms.
To foster understanding of these ongoing issues, public radio stations in cities with significant Haitian populations, including New York, Boston, and Miami, are collaborating to create an engaging call-in program titled “HAITI ON THE LINE.” This 90-minute special, hosted by Brian Lehrer from WNYC alongside Saraya Wintersmith and Tim Padgett, will be broadcast live, encouraging Haitians and Haitian-Americans to share their insights and experiences related to their homeland’s turmoil.
The live program aims to illuminate personal narratives of listeners, discussing their connections to Haiti and the challenges posed by the current crisis. This initiative will also explore the new realities faced by migrants and refugees in the United States, as they navigate their dual identities against a backdrop of instability.
Special guests will join the discussion, offering expert perspectives, including Widlore Merancourt, editor of AyiboPost; Jacqueline Charles, a Pulitzer Prize finalist from the Miami Herald; Dr. Geralde Gabeau from the Immigrant Family Services Institute; and U.S. Representative Sheila Cherfilus McCormick, co-chair of the House Haiti Caucus.
Listeners can tune in on February 24 at 7 p.m. Eastern Time via various stations: WNYC 93.9 FM and AM 820, GBH 89.7 FM, and WLRN 91.3 FM. Following the broadcast, a transcript in Haitian Creole will be made available to further reach the community.
Additional resources related to Haiti’s struggles include coverage of Dr. Geralde Gabeau’s efforts to assist Haitian refugees in the U.S., the devastating impact of swine flu on the Creole pig population, and commentary from a priest concerned about the treatment of immigrants under current policies.
By providing a platform for dialogue, this call-in special seeks to highlight the diverse perspectives of the Haitian diaspora, fostering a deeper understanding of the ongoing crisis in Haiti and its implications for individuals living abroad.
The call-in special “HAITI ON THE LINE” represents an important opportunity for the Haitian community in the U.S. to voice their experiences amid the ongoing crises in Haiti. By engaging with experts and community members, the program seeks to illuminate the complex relationship between Haiti and its diaspora. With broadcasts scheduled in major cities, the initiative highlights the needs for awareness and support of the Haitian community during these challenging times.
Original Source: www.wgbh.org
