Hot 97 DJ Cipha Sounds suspended indefinitely for Haitian HIV remarks

Cipha Sounds, a Hot 97 DJ with several years of tenure, has been suspended indefinitely after controversial on-air remarks about Haitian women.

On a broadcast last Friday Morning, Cipha sparked outrage in the Haitian-American community after he commented during the Cipha Sounds and Rosenberg show:

“The reason I’m HIV negative is because I don’t mess with Haitian girls.”

The parent company of WQHT issued a statement saying that the remarks were being taken seriously:

“Cipha made an immediate public apology and recognizes his insensitivity and the negative impact his comments have on all Haitians,” said Alex Cameron, SVP/Market Manager of Emmis-New York via written statement. “The Haitian community is an important part of our listenership whom we respect and value. The suspension is an indication of the importance we place on delivering a product that respects our Haitian audience.”

Cipha is said to be required to undergo sensitivity training, but it is unclear if or when he will resume broadcasting the popular Cipha Sounds and Rosenberg show. Cipha’s Twitter account can be found here.

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