Days after a 7.2 magnitude earthquake hit Haiti—leaving impassable roadways and a rising death toll that has been reported to be more than 1,900—students at the University of Miami are rallying together to support those affected with a relief drive and a vigil.
Laura Francois and Veroneeka Dorval, both seniors and co-presidents of Planet Kreyol, a Haitian and Haitian American undergraduate student organization at the University, are working to set up collection bins in the Whitten University Center and the Donna E. Shalala Student Center. Essential items like medical supplies are mostly needed, but personal hygiene items (soap, toilet paper), non-perishable food (canned goods, cooking oil, rice, and protein bars), and other necessities are appreciated. Beginning Monday, additional collection bins will be available in all residential colleges.
On Thursday, Aug. 26, the organization plans to host a vigil at the Rock Plaza on the Coral Gables Campus to commemorate those who lost their lives and provide an opportunity for people to share their thoughts and prayers. Patricia A. Whitely, senior vice president for student affairs, will be in attendance to offer words of comfort and support.
“I haven’t heard any devastating news like deaths of my immediate family but learning that any fellow Haitian has been killed hurts, regardless,” said Francois, a Haitian American double majoring in public health and French. “Sadly, Haiti is prone to natural disasters because its geographic location has high seismic activity.”
Dorval and Francois said they were both thankful and impressed by the University’s swift response following the island’s earthquake.
“The leadership and administration reached out pretty fast to see what we may have needed or what we wanted to do in reaction to the earthquake,” said Dorval, who is studying public health. “We were delighted to see that we have such a huge backing from the Office of the President and shared his message on our social media platforms.”
On Wednesday afternoon, Dr. Henri Ford, dean of the Miller School of Medicine, collaborated with the University’s chapter of the Student National Medical Association and the University’s Office of Diversity, Inclusion, and Community Engagement to host Brave Space, a virtual event to reflect on the recent earthquake.
“Despite all the challenges, the one thing that has been re-encouraging to me is that the Haitian people are resilient,” said Ford. “No matter how many times the situation looks bleak or how it seems we won’t be able to emerge, we manage to move forward. One thing that we almost seem to never lose is hope.”
Dorval and Francois said that they hope everyone, no matter their background, continue to follow the news and be aware of what’s taking place in Haiti.
“If you can’t donate money, please donate your time,” said Francois. “Offer words of encouragement and share what information you can.”
Dorval agrees with those sentiments and adds that she and many of her peers are devastated by the recent back-to-back crises in Haiti. Following the earthquake, Tropical Storm Grace brought rains that contributed to the risk of flooding and mudslides.
“Many of us are very sad,” said Dorval. “Right now, your Haitian peers need your support. So, reach out to them, talk to them, and help spread the word through your social media by sharing credible information and flyers.”
For more information about Planet Kreyol and how you can assist those affected by the earthquake follow the group on Instagram @umiamiplanetkreyol or email umiamiplanetkreyol@gmail.com.
