Vigil Held For Victims Of Haiti Earthquake
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Dozens gathered outside the Haitian consulate in Midtown Wednesday night to offer help and prayers for the victims and survivors of the deadly earthquake. NY1's Anthony Pascale filed the following report.Outside the Haitian consulate, New Yorkers came together and prayed for the victims of Tuesday's devastating earthquake and pledged whatever help possible.
"What you hear today is that New York, as it rightfully does, is taking the lead to make sure we don't have another Katrina in Haiti," said State Senate President Pro Tem Malcolm Smith.
While the extent of the damage and the number of dead is still unknown, local leaders say it's clear that the disaster is one of epic proportions.
"All of us here, every elected official and advocacy group and individual is here to help those families in need and we will work together with you Reverend Sharpton and the governor of our great state to make a difference," said Senator Kirsten Gillibrand.
"Our hearts are heavy and we are determined to turn this awful minus into a plus, respond in ways we should have responded across the years to Haiti," said Reverend Jesse Jackson.
Reverend Al Sharpton says he'll be heading to Haiti on Friday along with a delegation of leaders. Sharpton says he wants to see the devastation firsthand and let the Haitians know that the world is with them.
The visit will also coincide with the birthday of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
"He would not be somewhere in a ballroom. He would be in Haiti trying to give comfort and to stand by those who need to be stood by," Sharpton said.
As those with family in Haiti remain in the dark about their relatives on the island, many say they are only left with hope and prayers.
"Now we are just taking it one day at a time and praying that somehow everyone is okay, but we are definitely worried" said one vigil participant.
"I've been calling all day there, you can't get through, I've been trying the Internet," said another vigil participant.
Local leaders say if New Yorkers would like to make a donation to the relief effort, to do so in the form of money through a legitimate organization.