## More Than Just a Celebration: The Divine 9 Honors Their Roots on Founders’ Day January is a month brimming with new beginnings, but for the nine illustrious organizations that make up the Divine Nine, it’s a time for deep reflection. Founders’ Day, a tradition steeped in history and purpose, brings together these powerful fraternities and sororities to celebrate the legacy of their pioneering leaders and reaffirm the values that continue to guide their work today. From the hallowed halls of historically black colleges and universities to bustling city streets, the spirit of service, scholarship, and sisterhood/brotherhood resonates loud and clear. Join us as we delve into the powerful stories behind the Divine Nine and explore how their enduring impact continues to shape our world.
Honoring Pioneering Leaders
The Origins and Significance of Founders’ Day
The month of January is brimming with commemoration and historic recognition for Black leadership, such as national acknowledgement of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on Jan. 20, and the international celebrations of the founding of five of the nine Black Greek letter organizations (BGLOs) that comprise the National Pan-Hellenic Council, known as the Divine Nine. As citywide celebrations and communal gatherings immerse across D.C., the men and women of Kappa Alpha Psi (founded January 5, 1911), Phi Beta Sigma (founded January 9, 1914), Delta Sigma Theta (founded January 13, 1913), Alpha Kappa Alpha (founded January 15, 1908), and Zeta Phi Beta (founded January 16, 1920) honor the legacies of the Black leaders who opted to create social change in civic action, community service, personal excellence and kinship. “What Founders’ Day means to me is an opportunity for us to celebrate our unique brotherhood, bringing brothers together from all sorts of backgrounds, from different parts of the world, but also to commemorate the legacy of our revered founders and to truly focus on the work that we’ve been doing centered around brotherhood, scholarship and service,” said Dr. “Flapp” Cockrell, Phi Beta Sigma’s international executive director, in a video statement.
Celebrating Five Founding Chapters: A Look at Kappa Alpha Psi, Phi Beta Sigma, Delta Sigma Theta, Alpha Kappa Alpha, and Zeta Phi Beta
As five organizations in the Divine Nine – which also includes: Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity – celebrate their institutional roots in January, the anniversary underscores the principles of leadership and social justice that brought the BGLO’s into fruition. Members of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., gather in a prayer circle following the concession speech of fellow member and then-candidate Vice President Kamala Harris on Nov. 6. In an emotional display, the sorority sisters sang the words to their founder’s song and held hands as Harris’ presidential run came to an end. (Jada Ingleton/Gizmoposts24)
The Enduring Impact of the Founders on Modern Society
Further, Founders’ Day celebrations uplift the continued work by Divine Nine members to empower generations of Black leaders and inspire world changemakers over a century later. “I know real power when I see it… I learned about the Divine Nine a long time ago,” said President Joe Biden at a Black History Month reception in 2023, touting the influence of historically Black fraternities and sororities, including that of Vice President Kamala Harris, who is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. “We see the vibrancy of Black culture and history enriching all of American life,” Biden continued, “history that can’t be buried because it lives in the soul of this nation.”
The Pillars of the Divine Nine
Brotherhood, Scholarship, and Service: The Core Values of the BGLOs
The Divine Nine organizations were founded on the bedrock of three core values: brotherhood, scholarship, and service. These values permeate every aspect of their existence, guiding their interactions with each other, their communities, and the world at large.
Beyond Tradition: How the Divine Nine Adapt to Modern Challenges
While firmly rooted in tradition, the Divine Nine are not static institutions. They have consistently evolved to meet the changing needs of their members and communities. Through mentorship programs, community outreach initiatives, and advocacy efforts, the Divine Nine continue to address contemporary challenges such as educational inequality, economic disparity, and social justice.
The Legacy of Leadership: The Divine Nine’s Role in Shaping Black History
Throughout history, members of the Divine Nine have emerged as leaders in every facet of society. From politics and business to education and the arts, their contributions have helped to shape the Black experience in America.
Empowering Generations: The Divine Nine’s Continuing Impact
Cultivating Black Leaders: Mentorship and Development within the BGLOs
The Divine Nine place a high premium on mentorship and leadership development. Through their chapter networks and national organizations, they provide countless opportunities for members to hone their skills, connect with experienced professionals, and grow into effective leaders.
Social Justice Champions: The Divine Nine’s Advocacy for Equality and Change
From the Civil Rights Movement to the fight for voting rights, the Divine Nine have always been at the forefront of the struggle for social justice. Today, they continue to advocate for equality and change through a range of initiatives, including voter registration drives, policy advocacy, and community organizing.
Global Influence: The Reach and Impact of BGLOs Worldwide
The influence of the Divine Nine extends far beyond the borders of the United States. With chapters in numerous countries around the world, they are playing a vital role in promoting Pan-Africanism, fostering international collaboration, and empowering Black communities globally.
The Divine Nine in the Spotlight
Highlighting Notable Members: From Kamala Harris to President Biden, the Divine Nine’s Impact on Politics and Culture
The ranks of the Divine Nine include countless individuals who have achieved greatness in their respective fields. Vice President Kamala Harris, a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., made history as the first woman, first Black person, and first person of South Asian descent to serve in the second-highest office in the United States. President Joe Biden has often spoken of the influence of historically Black fraternities and sororities, including that of Vice President Harris.
Keeping the Flame Alive: How the Divine Nine Continue to Inspire and Empower
The Divine Nine continue to inspire and empower generations of Black leaders. Their legacy of service, scholarship, and brotherhood serves as a beacon of hope and a testament to the power of collective action.
The Future of the Divine Nine: Navigating Challenges and Embracing Innovation
As the world continues to evolve, the Divine Nine face new challenges and opportunities. They must remain adaptable, innovative, and committed to serving the needs of their members and communities. By embracing technology, fostering diversity and inclusion, and staying true to their core values, the Divine Nine are poised to continue their legacy of excellence for generations to come.
Conclusion
As we celebrate Founders’ Day, the Divine 9 organizations stand as a testament to the enduring power of community, commitment, and social progress. From their humble beginnings, these fraternities and sororities have evolved into pillars of Black excellence, fostering leadership, scholarship, and service across generations. The legacy of their pioneering founders continues to inspire, urging us to uphold their values of brotherhood, sisterhood, and unwavering dedication to uplifting our communities. Looking forward, the challenges facing our society remain complex and multifaceted. But the strength and resilience demonstrated by the Divine 9 organizations offer a beacon of hope. Their commitment to social justice, educational advancement, and economic empowerment serves as a blueprint for future generations to navigate these challenges and create a more equitable world. As we honor the past, let us embrace the responsibility to carry the torch forward, building upon the legacy of these extraordinary leaders and continuing their fight for a brighter future for all. The spirit of the Divine 9 lives on, not just in their history, but in the hearts and actions of those who strive to make a difference.
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