Wyclef Jean calls Haiti earthquake 'unprecedented'
After yesterday’s 7.0 magnitude earthquake in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Haitian-born musician Wyclef Jean released the following statement about the natural disaster, the worst the country has seen in 200 years:
“Haiti today faced a natural disaster of unprecedented proportion, an earthquake unlike anything the country has ever experienced. The magnitude 7.0 earthquake–and several very strong aftershocks–struck only 10 miles from Port-au-Prince. I cannot stress enough what a human disaster this is, and idle hands will only make this tragedy worse. The over 2 million people in Port-au-Prince tonight face catastrophe alone. We must act now. President Obama has already said that the U.S. stands ‘ready to assist’ the Haitian people. The U.S. Military is the only group trained and prepared to offer that assistance immediately. They must do so as soon as possible. The international community must also rise to the occasion and help the Haitian people in every way possible.”
An ardent supporter of his native land, Jean founded Yele Haiti in 2004, a grassroots organization that promotes change with educations, arts and sports. Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt, who joined Jean in Yele’s first official anniversary celebration in Haiti in 2006, added in a statement: “We are devastated by the news from Haiti. We will work closely with our good friend Wyclef Jean to support the humanitarian efforts on the island and help those who have been injured and left without homes and shelter.”
To lend your support, text “Yele” to 501501, which will automatically donate $5 to the Yele Haiti Earthquake Fund (it will be charged to your cell phone bill), or you can visit Yele.org and click on DONATE.