Chairs encompassed the room as members of the VCU community gathered together yesterday afternoon in the Commons to voice their thoughts and concerns about the tsunami tragedy that occurred last month.
The vigil became a way for VCU students, faculty and staff to talk about the earthquake, which triggered a tsunami that took the lives of nearly 300,000 people in five countries.
Peter Kirkpatrick, executive director of the Office of International Education, said many groups had expressed an interest in a forum of this type.
“The vigil came about from the concern of several student organizations,” he said.
Students and faculty alike sat clumped together in small groups discussing the events that had taken place and how they had affected them. A PowerPoint presentation displayed photos of the tragedy along with words of wisdom from various world leaders such as Kofi Annan, the U.N.’s secretary-general and President George W. Bush.
“The slideshow,” Kirkpatrick said, “consists of e-mailed pictures that students forwarded to me.”
Reuban B. Rodriguez, associate vice provost and dean of student affairs, said those attending the event were offered two ways to assist people who are now in need because of the devastation.
“At this event,” Rodriguez said, “they’re selling bracelets, and the Red Cross Web site is set up for those who want to give a donation.”
The bracelets, which are opaque with the words “tsunami support” on them, resemble the Lance Armstrong “live strong” bracelets that have become popular in recent months.
Vibin Roy, a member of The Source group sold the bracelets for $3 each, with all profits going to aid the tsunami relief efforts.
“The Source is a community-service organization that does service projects throughout the year,” Roy said. “We just wanted to do something to help – especially with all of those families out there.”
The bracelet’s lack of color has a specific meaning.
“They are clear because a lot of people over there are cloudy and hazy right now,” Roy said. “Hopefully we can help to clear the haze.”
Silvia Firdaus, a senior art-education major, said her father volunteered to help the tsunami-aid effort. He is assisting in the efforts to establish a new school in Sumatra, Indonesia.
“He’s actually on his winter vacation,” Firdaus said. “He’s going to spend about two weeks in Sumatra. His friend is training new teachers, because most teachers – and a lot of students – died.”
Although Firdaus does not personally know anyone affected by the disaster, she has heard stories about some of the people who lost their loved ones as the water quickly swept ashore.
“I know of a man who lost his wife and two children,” Firdaus said. “He was on a plane that was about to land when they saw the wave and did not land. He’s homeless now.”