HOT 97 Announces Immediate Suspension of DJ Cipha Sounds

NEW YORK, Dec. 21, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- Emmis Communications' HOT 97 today announced a three-part plan to address a recent comment made on-air by DJ Cipha Sounds.

First, the station announced that DJ Cipha Sounds has been suspended indefinitely.  

Second, Cipha will immediately undertake sensitivity training focused on the Haitian community and specifically, the challenges the Haitian community has faced in terms of the HIV epidemic.

Finally, HOT 97 announced it will work with local community leaders to utilize the influence of HOT 97 to increase awareness of HIV and community programs to address the HIV epidemic.

"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. "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.  It's a very regrettable and unfortunate circumstance for all involved and particularly because we know this is not the nature of this young man who has been an advocate of the Haitian community and a big part of our fundraising efforts for Haiti. He is committed to working with the Haitian community to make a difference and turn this negative incident into an opportunity for increased learning and awareness."

About HOT 97

HOT 97 (WQHT FM) is the world's first all Hip-Hop station and has held the dominant position in New York for over ten years. HOT 97 is best known for its celebrity on air talent, such as Angie Martinez (Grammy nominated artist) and Funkmaster Flex (television host, multiple gold records), as well as being the world's premier source for Hip Hop music culture. For more information on HOT 97, please visit www.hot97.com, HOT 97 on the Web at Myspace.com/hot97official, www.facebook.com/hot97official, or twitter.com/hot97

Emmis Communications – Great Media, Great People, Great Service®

Emmis is an Indianapolis-based diversified media firm with radio broadcasting, television broadcasting and magazine publishing operations. Emmis owns 21 FM and 2 AM domestic radio stations serving the nation's largest markets of New York, Los Angeles and Chicago, as well as St. Louis, Austin, Indianapolis and Terre Haute, Ind. Emmis also owns a radio network, international radio stations, regional and specialty magazines, an interactive business and ancillary businesses in broadcast sales.

SOURCE HOT 97