A charity event, “Wi Deh Yah!”, organized by a group of LGBTQIA+ and allied diasporan Jamaicans living in Japan, will be held at CONTRAST on Sunday, March 1, to support those affected by Hurricane Melissa.
In October 2025, Hurricane Melissa — the strongest hurricane recorded to make landfall — struck Jamaica with winds exceeding 250 km/h, leaving 54 people dead, 109 injured, and more than 279,000 homeless. Nearly half of the population was affected through the loss of housing, livelihoods, and essential services.
The event is both a fundraiser and a celebration of Jamaica’s creativity, resilience, and diversity, with a focus on communities where aid is difficult to reach, including rural women facing economic hardship and Jamaica’s LGBTQIA+ community. Through art, music, and performance, the event highlights the cultural connection between Jamaica and Japan while raising funds for recovery efforts.
The program will include poetry readings, performances, DJs, food and drinks, as well as an art bazaar and silent auction featuring works by more than 20 artists.
All proceeds will be donated to Equality for All Jamaica, United Way Jamaica, and Connek JA.
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Date: 3/1 (Sun)
Time: 13:00–19:00
Venue: CONTRAST
Entrance: ¥1,000 (suggested donation)
Organizer: Gordon Higgins, Chloe Douglas, and members of the Jamaican Diaspora
Supported by: IN FOCUS Inc.