Pump It Up: Voter Outreach by Black Fraternities and Sororities Can Help to Elect Kamala Harris President

by Larry Alexander

September 10, 2024

Black fraternities and sororities, commonly known as the Devine Nine, have taken an active interest in the 2024 presidential election. The Devine Nine has a long history of political and social activism, so their involvement in the 2024 election is part of that history. 

The Divine Nine refers to the nine historically Black Greek-letter organizations that have been pillars of excellence, leadership, and community service for over a century. Officially, they form the National Pan-Hellenic Council.

Two recent articles in Politico detail how the Devine Nine is expanding voter outreach programs and forming PACs to educate people about the importance of the 2024 presidential election. Here are the links:

https://www.politico.com/news/2024/08/25/divine-nine-harris-black-sororities-fraternities-00176279

https://www.politico.com/news/2024/08/12/kamala-harris-sorority-pac-00173726

Joining one of these fraternities or sororities is an incredibly enriching experience, and here’s why you should consider joining:

-Lifelong Brotherhood/Sisterhood: Becoming a member of a Divine Nine organization means gaining a family for life. These bonds go beyond just college; you’ll have a network of supportive and successful individuals who will lift you up and provide lifelong friendships. Together, you’ll navigate the highs and lows of life, creating memories that will last forever.

-Leadership Development: Divine Nine organizations are renowned for fostering leadership skills within their members. Through various positions and opportunities, you’ll gain valuable experience in leading teams, organizing events, and making a positive impact on your community. These skills will undoubtedly benefit you in your personal and professional life.

-Academic Excellence: Don’t be fooled by the social aspects; Divine Nine organizations place a strong emphasis on academic achievement. Many offer scholarships, resources, and mentorship programs to ensure their members excel academically. You’ll find yourself surrounded by motivated individuals who will inspire and support you in reaching your educational goals.

-Service to the Community: Giving back is at the core of the Divine Nine organizations. Whether it’s through community service projects, mentorship programs, or philanthropic endeavors, these groups are committed to making a positive impact. Joining a Divine Nine organization gives you the opportunity to serve and uplift your community, creating meaningful change.

-Professional Networking: The Divine Nine boasts a vast network of accomplished alumni who excel in various fields, from business and politics to entertainment and academia. By joining, you’ll gain access to this influential network, opening doors for internships, job opportunities, and mentorship. The connections you make will undoubtedly enhance your professional journey.

So, if you’re seeking brotherhood/sisterhood, leadership development, academic excellence, community service opportunities, and professional networking, then joining a Divine Nine fraternity or sorority could be the perfect fit for you.

Be sure to research each organization, attend informational sessions, and connect with current members to find the one that aligns best with your interests and values. Embrace the chance to grow, empower others, and leave a lasting legacy.

Here are the nine organizations that make up the Divine Nine, along with their mottos:

1. Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. – “First of All, Servants of All, We Shall Transcend All.”
2. Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. – “By Culture and By Merit.”
3. Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. – “Achievement in Every Field of Human Endeavor.”
4. Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. – “Friendship is Essential to the Soul.”
5. Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. – “Intelligence is the Torch of Wisdom.”
6. Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. – “Culture for Service and Service for Humanity.”
7. Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. – “A Community-Conscious, Action-Oriented Organization.”
8. Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. – “Greater Service, Greater Progress.”
9. Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc. – “Building a Tradition, Not Resting Upon One!”

Each organization holds its own unique values and traditions, but they all share a commitment to leadership, service, and making a positive impact in their communities.

The initiation processes for each organization within the Divine Nine are unique and specific to their respective organizations. However, the details of initiation processes are typically kept private and only disclosed to members. These processes often involve rituals, ceremonies, and teachings that are designed to instill the values, traditions, and principles of the organization into new members.

It’s important to note that the initiation processes are considered sacred and are meant to be a meaningful and transformative experience for individuals joining these organizations. Respecting the privacy of these processes is crucial, as they are integral to the identities and histories of each organization.

If you are interested in joining any of these organizations, reach out to the local chapters or national headquarters for more information on their membership intake processes.