Hip-hop master refused US visa for dance contest
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By Aoife Anderson
Tuesday Jun 27 2006
THE dreams of one of Ireland's leading hip-hop dancers were dashed yesterday after the US Embassy refused to grant him a visa to compete in the World hip-hop and breakdance championships in Los Angeles.
Considered "the best of the best" among contemporary Irish dancers, Nigerian student Suleman Sode or "Sly" was refused a visa for the second time because officials said he did "not show significant ties to Ireland".
Selected from hundreds of entrants, Sly is one of 14 contestants chosen to represent Ireland in the nine-day world championship competition. This starts on July 24.
The refusal has sparked fears that two other foreign dancers representing Ireland, from Poland and South Africa, will also be refused visas.
Despite legally living, working and studying in Ireland for more than five years, Sly (19) a student at Colaiste Ide in Drogheda said officials believed he had not proven his case. Even more puzzling to Sly is the fact his sister Shile has travelled to the US from Ireland many times without problems. More than 1,000 of his supporters have signed a petition appealing to officials to grant him a visa. He has already spent almost ?1,000 on securing his flights and accommodation. Sly hopes to appeal the decision.
- Aoife Anderson
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