I probably passed the RTDJ tent in Jacmel's town square half a dozen times before I took a peek inside.
I end up in the town square at some point nearly each day. It's located smack in the middle of the city government offices (what's left of them anyways), and because I often find myself waiting to see government figures, I end up hanging out in the square, where you can buy fried egg sandwiches or tangerines and find a shred of shade. Whether I find that shade or not, I inevitably find myself bopping my head to the tunes being blasted out of RTDJ's speakers - usually it's the much-played calypso tune Jump in the Line (Shake, Senora), which cycles through their playlist at least half a dozen times each day. There's something about that song that brings levity. No matter how hot, sweaty and tired people are, it gets all of us smiling, singing along and dancing (although it's the kids in the square who bust out the serious moves, including moon walking).
One day last week, while I was waiting on yet another interview, it became obvious that I had to write about the radio station, which was smack in front of me. So, I went up to the tent, squeezed through the three layers of wire they have strung across it to deter thieves, and asked to hear their story.
The young DJs spent a while showing me their CD books, explaining how they rescued the equipment after the quake and why they were working for free. They called in the station's owner, Frenel Francois, who once lived in Montreal. His former home/office complex was right behind the RTDJ tent, so he toured me through the wreckage and also showed me his sleep tent on the square. I had to admire his willingness to go through the whole story - throughout our interview his expression barely changed. Dealing with the wreckage of his professional and personal life has left him numb.
I asked if he has contacted any radio stations in Canada to see if they'll partner with him to help with the reconstruction. He shook his head and held up his hands. He just doesn't know where to start. But if anyone out there has suggestions, please email him: rtdj@yahoo.fr. I'm sure he'd be more than grateful for the help.