A personal appeal from the editor
A Personal appeal from the editor of jazzreloaded magazine on behalf of the Haitian people in Haiti and around the world.
Mr Taylor, editor, Jazzreloaded magazine
Having worked closely with musicians from Dominica and Cuba for the last five years, and having played music strongly influenced by Haiti in the last year in particular, I’ve come to understand that the influence of Cuban, Dominican and Haitian music, lifestyle, culture, tourism and industry on global consciousness is inestimable, incessant, and essential. From the Caribbean food we eat, the holidays we take, through the music, dance, literature and drama we enjoy, and to the intellectual and physical talents of those who work around the world towards our common wealth.
Yet the recent earthquakes in the region are in danger of overshadowing this. In particular, the integrity of Haitian communities and the self determination of its people are still under threat, despite the rapid and welcome responses from aid organisations worldwide.
I urge those of you who can consider Haiti in one of its many hours of need to:
- Get curious: This is probably the most important step for Haiti’s long term future. Read a little bit about Haiti from books or online, so that you can understand where the people are coming from, and what they have been going through.
- Make a donation: This is probably the most important step for Haiti’s short term future. I will be making my cash donations through www.dec.org.uk and www.yele.org , and there are a number of other organisations who are accepting both cash donations and physical goods (Whoever you choose to partner with, please check for a registered company number and/or a registered charity number before you donate your money or goods).
Thanks very much for your support, past present and future.
"And the World Stood Still and Prayed" Song by Pinestone Music. Photo by Tom Hurley.
Mr Taylor
Editor in Chief
Jazzreloaded.com