Dave Chappelle’s forthcoming concert, with Wyclef Jean, will commemorate Ohio’s Haitian population.
The Haitian Appreciation Show, scheduled for 8 p.m. Saturday at the YS Firehouse in Yellow Springs, will combine comedy and music and “is specifically designed to recognize the invaluable contributions Haitian immigrants have made to Springfield and surrounding Ohio communities through their culture, work ethic, and community spirit,” according to a recently released statement.
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The performance will include comedian Dave Chappelle from Yellow Springs and Grammy-winning Haitian artist Wyclef Jean, as well as representatives of the Haitian community from Springfield, Dayton, Columbus, and other cities, as well as community leaders and organizations that promote immigrant communities.
Chappelle’s media staff issued a statement, “This grassroots community initiative aims to bridge cultural gaps and create meaningful connections by directly engaging with Haitian community members throughout Ohio.”
It further noted, “The event is part of an ongoing effort to ensure that immigrant communities in Springfield and surrounding areas feel welcomed, recognized, and celebrated.”
The performance has sold out to the public, however few seats have been reserved for Haitian community members at a 50% discount, or $75. Chappelle’s crew explained that this is to ensure that the community being recognized gets access to the event.
As of late fall, Springfield was predicted to have between 10,000 and 15,000 Haitian immigrants. Some Springfield locals said that Haitians’ entry put unnecessary pressure on the city’s schools, safety, and health-care systems. Others said that Haitians enhanced the local economy and supported local businesses.
In September, Haitians received threats when President Donald Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and others spread false allegations about slaughtering and devouring people’s pets.
Due to recent changes made by the Trump administration’s Department of Homeland Security, Haitians in the United States under parole immigration programs would lose their legal status on April 24th. Haitians who are now protected by Temporary Protected Status will have their status expire in August.
According to the statement, anyone attending Chappelle’s event on Saturday will need to secure their phones, smart watches, and other digital gadgets in separate Yondr pouches, which will be reopened at the conclusion. Guests may use their phones in specific places before resecuring them in the pouches and returning to the performance area.
