FIU remembers the Haiti earthquake: One year later


On the first anniversary of the devastating earthquake that ravaged Haiti, Florida International University will host its fourth teach-in focused on the ongoing recovery and reconstruction of the island nation. Several other commemorative events, ranging from a moment of silence to art exhibitions, will also take place on campus.

The Jan. 12 teach-in will take place from 2-4 p.m. at the MARC Pavilion on FIU’s Modesto Maidique Campus, 11200 S.W. 8 St. in Southwest Miami-Dade County.
The event will feature a panel of FIU experts, who will explore various aspects of the 2010 disaster, together with Kimberly Green, from the Green Family Foundation. The presentations will highlight the current state of affairs and the ongoing problems facing the country.

Grenville Draper, professor in the Department of Earth & Environment in the School of Environment, Arts and Society, will present the latest geological findings and the potential for future seismic activity in the country.

Richard Olson, professor in the Department of Politics and International Relations in the School of International and Public Affairs, will discuss the current reconstruction efforts and long-term plans for Port-au-Prince.

Jessy Devieux, associate professor in the Stempel School of Public Health, will give an update on the cholera epidemic and address other critical public health issues.

Alex Stepick, professor in the Department of Global & Sociocultural Studies in the School of International and Public Affairs, will discuss the ongoing displacement of Haitians and the migration to the countryside and abroad.

Eduardo Gamarra, professor in the Department of Politics and International Relations in the School of International and Public Affairs will discuss the recent elections and the current political climate of the country.

Kimberly Green, president of the Green Family Foundation and rapporteur for the Clinton Global Initiative Haiti Action Network, will discuss the changes she has seen in the country and what she envisions for the future of the Haitian people.

“The Green Family and our Foundation have a long and productive relationship with FIU, and we are both proud and honored to now also be working with South Florida’s signature institution in building upon our decade-long commitment to Haiti,” Green said. “The earthquake was a devastating blow to everyone, and our hearts continue to go out to those affected by the tragedy. But together we can join Haiti in rebuilding and rebounding, and in reclaiming its rightful place in the community of glorious nations.”

The event is free and open to the public. For more information, contact the School of International and Public Affairs at 305-348-7266.

The teach-in, presented by the School of International and Public Affairs in conjunction with the Latin American and Caribbean Center, the Division of External Relations, and the School of Environment, Arts and Society, is part of FIU’s ongoing commitment to Haiti’s recovery.

Other events taking place on Jan. 12 include:

Moment of Silence – Bells for Haiti
4:53 p.m. – FIU-Modesto Maidique Campus Graham Center Pit
FIU students, faculty, staff and friends will come together in the Graham Center Pit for a moment of silence around the world. The program will include bells tolling for Haiti, a candlelight vigil and the screening of a film titled “Ayiti Leve” by Tatiana Magloire and made possible by the Green Family Foundation.

Haiti: A Night of Commemoration
6 p.m. – FIU-MMC Graham Center Ballrooms
FIU students have planned a cultural celebration to close the day’s activities. The event will serve as a celebration of independence, a celebration of overcoming and a celebration of life hosted for the FIU community and sponsored by FIU’s Haitian Student Organization.

Art Exhibitions:
Jan. 10-31, 2011

Base Paint Tents, a project of goodwill for the children of Port-au-Prince, Haiti from artists around the world. FIU is supporting this art project proposed by artist Antuan, in collaboration with Fundacion Manos del Sur and Step by Step Foundation to create ten pieces of art out of canvassed tents which will serve as classrooms, a library and workshops on the property of L’Athletique d’Haiti in Cite Soleil in Haiti.
Location: FIU-MMC, Lawn outside of the Frost Art Museum.

Kenbe Pa Lage (Keep Strong), is an exhibition curated by artist Fred Thomas and highlights Traditional and Contemporary Haitian Art.  Artists included are Fred Thomas, Dominik Ambroise, Alexandra Barbot, Levoy Exil, and Donald Obin.  Haitian art is rich in its content; within it we see daily living, religious symbolism, social commentary and historic documentation. This exhibit represents the spirit, the love of life and the strength of the people.
Location: FIU-MMC Graham Center Art Gallery.

Media Contact: Jean-Paul Renaud at 305-348-2716.