MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, Fla. – The Family Action Network Movement held a vigil Sunday to commemorate the 15th anniversary of Haiti’s devastating 2010 earthquake, bringing together South Florida leaders and community advocates in Little Haiti.
The event began at 3 p.m. at the Toussaint Louverture Memorial Statue, where speakers reflected on the tragedy.
Event organizers said a moment of silence was held at 4:53 p.m. to mark the precise time the 7.0-magnitude earthquake struck, killing and wounding hundreds of thousands and leaving over a million people displaced.
Watch Local 10′s coverage of the devastating 2010 hurricane in the video below.
Marleine Bastien, FANM’s Executive Director, urged the crowd to honor the lives lost and demand accountability in Haiti’s ongoing recovery efforts.
“We are gathering in solidarity with our brothers and sisters in Haiti to remember one of the worst crises in modern history and to honor those who were killed and wounded as a result,” Bastien said in a news release. “We encourage all to join us to pray for the people of Haiti as they continue to face serious problems including corruption, a crippled infrastructure and grave human rights abuses. Let us come together to remember, reflect, and pray for a strong, just, and thriving Haiti!”
“As we reflect on this tragedy, we honor the memory of those we lost and celebrate the strength of the Haitian people,” said Coral Springs Vice Mayor Nancy Metayer Bowen. “Haiti’s story is one of perseverance and hope. Even in the face of unimaginable devastation, the Haitian community has continued to rise, rebuild, and inspire the world.”
Organizers also emphasized the need for global support and solidarity as Haiti continues to face corruption, infrastructure challenges, and human rights abuses.
Click here for more information on how you can contribute.