Alligator Online
By TIM HUSSIN
After packing 15 people into a small pickup truck, Alexis and Jonathan Hunter finally escaped Louisiana five days after Hurricane Katrina hit.
Holding back tears, Alexis held a poem entitled "I ain't no refugee," which she read in front of approximately 250 people during the University Gospel Choir Charity Concert in the Reitz Union Grand Ballroom on Sunday.
The concert was organized to collect canned goods and supplies to send to the American Red Cross for survivors of Hurricane Katrina.
The poem described perceptions of those living in Louisiana and the issues surrounding the disaster.
Alexis brought up issues of delayed supplies, disorganized aid, and lost family and friends.
"Too little, too late," she recited. "Why is security the question when we are just hungry to survive? Are we refugees because of the food and water we looted?"
Attendees were asked to bring canned goods or other supplies as an admission charge.
"We collected over 250 cans alone, not including the bags of rice, spaghetti, noodles and other small non-perishable goods," said Alex Marshall, spokesman for the University Gospel Choir.
"We even got a few bags of clothing and almost $100 in cash."
The choir entertained the crowd, singing songs following the theme, "I need you to survive." The crowd was encouraged to stand up and participate throughout the show, clapping and dancing.
"Gospel music requires some hand clapping and some foot stomping," said David Richardson II, the conductor of the choir. "We want you to stand up with us and groove with us."
Swaying, the choir sang out, "You are important to me. I need you to survive. I need you. You need me. Stand with me. Agree with me."
Two Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority members contributed a dance and song in the middle of the show.
The performances expressed the need to find a spiritual sanctuary in the midst of disaster.
The choir ended with a song that inspired audience participation. Afterward, information about helping the survivors who were unable to escape the hurricane was posted.
Unlike many, the Hunters said they were able to leave the city with their health.
Anyone can donate by visiting www.redcross.org or by calling the Alachua County division of the American Red Cross at 376-4669.