Divine Nine: Honoring Black sororities, fraternities

Paige Magee, Contributing Columnist

Who are the Black fraternities and sororities on Tulane, and what do these organizations foster? (Paige Magee)

The National Pan-Hellenic Council was founded on May 10, 1930 at Howard University. This council was created to foster a cooperative place that allowed Black sororities to deal with matters of mutual concern. 

African Americans were denied essential rights and privileges that their white counterparts had access to. Overcoming the daily trauma of racism, some sought it fit to establish Black Greek lettered organizations. These organizations were created to foster a sisterhood and brotherhood that compared to none. 

Under this branch there are nine fraternities and sororities, better known as the Divine Nine. The Sororities include: Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority and Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority. The fraternities include: Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity and Iota Phi Theta Fraternity. 

At Tulane University, there are only four NPHC sororities: Alpha Kappa Alpha, Alpha Phi Alpha, Delta Sigma Theta and Zeta Phi Beta.

The primary focus for these organizations was to serve the Black community. This was conquered and still is being completed daily through the development of programs that focus on education, economics, and culture.  

Being a member of any of these organizations is an honor. The sisterhood and brotherhood formed is unexplainable. The feeling of understanding that once you are a member under the National Pan-Hellenic Council you will have the support of the other organizations for life is unforgettable.  

Membership in Divine Nine organizations is a lifelong commitment. Compared to other councils, NPHC does not last only in college. We are an authentic sister and brotherhood committed to helping the community. Post graduation, all members join an alumni chapter under the different sororities and fraternities. This ensures the work within the Black community continues to thrive.

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