DJ Cipha Sounds Suspended From Hot 97 Over Derogatory Haitian Comments
Popular Hot 97 DJ, DJ Cipha Sounds has been suspended indefinitely following his comments that he’s HIV negative because “he doesn’t mess with Haitian girls.”
As previously reported, one half of the Cipha Sounds and Rosenburg show made the remark Friday and was immediately slammed by the Haitian community.
Although the DJ apologized soon after Hot 97 announced today that he will be taking a hiatus from radio airwaves to partake in sensitivity training and a new HIV awareness initiative.
A statement from the station reads,
”Emmis Communications’ HOT 97 today announced a three-part plan to address a recent comment made on-air by DJ Cipha Sounds.
First, the station announced that DJ Cipha Sounds has been suspended indefinitely.
Second, Cipha will immediately undertake sensitivity training focused on the Haitian community and specifically, the challenges the Haitian community has faced in terms of the HIV epidemic.
Finally, HOT 97 announced it will work with local community leaders to utilize the influence of HOT 97 to increase awareness of HIV and community programs to address the HIV epidemic.”
Speaking on Cipha’s suspension, Alex Cameron the SVP/Market Manager of Emmis-New York, also released a statement saying,
“Cipha made an immediate public apology and recognizes his insensitivity and the negative impact his comments have on all Haitians.
The Haitian community is an important part of our listenership whom we respect and value.
The suspension is an indication of the importance we place on delivering a product that respects our Haitian audience.
It’s a very regrettable and unfortunate circumstance for all involved and particularly because we know this is not the nature of this young man who has been an advocate of the Haitian community and a big part of our fundraising efforts for Haiti.
He is committed to working with the Haitian community to make a difference and turn this negative incident into an opportunity for increased learning and awareness.”
