by April Watts  Photos by Anthony Tilghman

How poetic that 815 V Street—the headquarters for the 1963 March on Washington—would, once again, be on the right side of history as host to another monumental grassroots effort; and on the King holiday.  Sonia Sanchez could not have written a better scenario.  Similar to the March on Washington, “DMV Helps Haiti Benefit Concert,” was organized by young people that recognized a need and had both the courage and energy to act.  

And to think…it all started with a tweet.  Shortly after news hit about the 7.0-magnitude earthquake that devastated Haiti, somebody tweeted, “I feel like I should do something.”  Within a few days, an historic event was born. 

Interscope recording artist, Wale, headlined a bill bursting with the metro’s dopest emcees including Tabi Bonney, Uptown XO, Kingpen Slim and DC Don Juan.  R&B vocalist, Paula Campbell, also supported the cause.  Raheem DeVaughn, Kenny Burns, and “Big G” made surprise appearances to show solidarity with Haiti.  All of the artists donated their talents.  The 9:30 Club donated its venue as well as all proceeds from the bar and concession.  Club employees even donated their wages for the night.  Ward 5 Councilmember Harry “Tommy” Thomas, Jr., and others, addressed the crowd in between performances.  Painter Deemont Peekaso created live artwork that was auctioned as part of the relief effort. 

According to reports, the concert raised nearly $30,000 for Partners in Health and Yele Haiti.  It also served as a reminder of the power of the people to heal the world.

View Photos From “DMV Helps Haiti Benefit Concert”
Photos By http://AnthonyTilghman.com

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