D.C.'s top female promoter and socialite Yodit Gebreyes dishes exclusively to Niteside about the second annual DMV Helps Haiti, which will be held Jan. 23 at the Warehouse Loft (411 New York Ave. N.E.).
Why was it important to you to organize DMV Helps Haiti again this year?
It was important to our committee that we let Haiti know that we haven't forgotten them. We did such a great thing last year that we wanted to give back again.
Are people as interested as they were last year?
I think America can have a short attention span when it comes to certain things. If it's not in our face constantly, we tend to forget about it. However, there are still people who care and want to help out, but it's definitely a difference from last year.
I think it's important that people always stay involved with the happenings in their community. We're only a few weeks into the new year and there's already been 14 homicides in Prince George's County, which is really sad. We have to pay attention to what's going on around us and the world in general.
Do you think enough has been done to help the country of Haiti?
I think a lot has been done, but unfortunately there's still so much to do. The people there weren't just physically harmed, but psychologically as well. Although new houses are being built there every day, many are afraid to move in for fear that there will be another earthquake. It seems like they just can't catch a break.
Were you surprised at the amount of DMV-area promoters and nightlife insiders who wanted to once again help with this event?
No, I wasn't. If we learned anything last year, it's that we're really powerful when we all work together. Although we're all busy with our day-to-day lives, it's amazing to watch people play a small or big role. I love that we can come together and accomplish something great. Whether its a promoter, a restaurant/night club owner, an artist, a socialite, or whomever, everyone has played a part.
What do you hope people take away from DMV Helps Haiti?
I hope people become more aware to what's still going on in Haiti. I hope that they walk away grateful that they're not on the receiving end of the giving And I hope that although the tragedy of Haiti is not constantly in their face, they'll still think about it and inspire others to give what they can.
