May 14, 2009 — Rocsi, host of BET’s top video countdown show “106 and Park,” will lead a march and host a rally against violence Saturday in Christiansted.
The Office of the Police Commissioner put together the rally in conjunction with the Departments of Education, Human Services and Labor, the National Parks Services and several private partners, according to a statement from the Police Department.
“Rocsi has a notoriety and platform with youth which enables her to reach young men and women in an unprecedented way” said Officer Kenny Gittens, who pursued organizing the event after a brainstorming conversation with Valrika Bryson from the Board of Education. “We need to energize our youth and community and create innovative ways to spread the word of peace and love amongst Virgin Islanders,” Gittens said.
Rocsi’s love for youth and her visibility, specifically with issues impacting young men and women, make her participation and presence at the event fitting. Born in Honduras, the beautiful Latina grew up in the Bayou State and claims New Orleans as her home. Rocsi, the organizers say, is a role model and spends a lot of her time outside the BET platform educating youth about issues from the importance of voting to teen abuse, drugs, alcohol and other forms of addiction.
Shawntay Henry, 2008 national poetry champion (See: "Well Versed: St. Thomas Student Wins National Poetry Competition.") will present one of her poems. There will be tents with exhibitors featuring activities geared toward young people, motivational and inspirational speakers and entertainment by local groups including Shine The Light, Mighty Pat, King Derby and other calypsonians.
“It starts with a step," is the motto the organizers want everyone to embrace.
The March and Rally Against Violence will bring young people and adults together to raise awareness on the problems of today, including gang and other youth violence. The speeches and information offered at the exhibition tents will highlight positive alternatives to destructive behavior.
The march begins 2 p.m. Saturday at Bassin Triangle and will go through town to the Christiansted Bandstand, where the rally will be held until 6 p.m.
Organizers urge people to "come on out with your children and as a Virgin Islands community take a stand for what we believe is best for our islands and future." Later that evening, Rocsi will also host an adult affair and ladies night at Tutto Bene restaurant and she invites all of the grown and Crucians against violence to join her in celebrating taking back the community. Music will be provided by DJ Poppy Pops & The Camp and there is a $12 admission. Ladies will be admitted free before midnight.
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