Protestors call for removal of Hot 97 DJ

NEW YORK (WABC) -- Apology not accepted. That was the message delivered by a coalition of activists and local leaders who gathered outside the Manhattan offices of radio station Hot 97.

"We are here together to ensure that Mr. Diaz be removed from this station," New York City Councilman Matthieu Eugene said.

"Ciphus Sounds - whatever his mom named him. I don't know what his real name is - is inappropriate. It's unacceptable. It's disgraceful," Carine Jocelyn of Diaspora Community Services said.

D-J Cipha Sounds' on-air comment last week has angered Haitians Americans and others across the city.

"The reason I'm H-I-V negative is because I don't mess with Haitian girls," he said.

He almost immediately issued an on-air apology and Hot 97 posted the apology onYouTube, but activists are adamant that's not enough.

They point to previous questionable broadcasts by Hot 97, such as a song making fun of tsunami victims back in 2005, as examples of the station's failure to be respectful and responsible.

Hot 97 is certainly no stranger to controversy, but has still maintained its popularity. Those gathered here today are hoping this incident might change that.

"If we feel that they are not addressing it, I suggest we take our business and air to another station," New York City Councilman Jumaane Williams said.

Coalition leaders have vowed to keep the pressure on until Sounds is properly disciplined.

Hot 97 management has, so far, not responded to requests for comment.

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new york city, controversy, hot 97, haiti, new york news, sandra bookman

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