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More than 200 candles were lit Friday night at the Reflecting Pond as the UCF community gathered in remembrance of those who have lost their lives because of the earthquake in Haiti.
"It's a diverse crowd out here right now," said Jamile Kitnurse, who spoke during the vigil. "Everybody is not Haitian so obviously your emotions brought you here. What we have to do is use our emotions, turn it into passion, and take that passion and turn it into action."
The images seen on TV are heartbreaking, but the cameras don't show all of the destruction that's in Haiti, Kitnurse said. He said people there are living in a nightmare, but added that Haitians are strong, resilient, and don't give up.
Those who attended the vigil were asked to raise their right hand to pledge for the recovery of Haiti, which Kitnurse said will happen with local and international help.
"Haiti will bounce back," he said. "Not just bounce back where they were before the earthquake, but bounce back on the path to finally become a functional state."
The candlelight vigil, which featured songs and prayers, was organized by Club Kreyol, the Caribbean Students' Association and Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc.
Senior elementary education major Charline Charles, who is also the president of Club Kreyol, said they all felt the devastation in Haiti and wanted to do something to help not only the people in Haiti, but also people in the UCF community who are affected because of national ties to the country or family members who are in Haiti.
CSA President Shedine Lawrence said 15-20 organizations contacted Club Kreyol and the Caribbean Students' Association about what they can do to help. Events will be held throughout the month to help raise awareness and funds for Haiti, including a barbecue fundraiser that will be at the Alpha Tau Omega house on Jan. 18.
Lawrence said Haiti is in need of water, medical supplies and monetary donations, and the Multicultural Student Center is accepting donations. The UCF Counseling Center is also available for those who have been affected by the earthquake.
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