Things Forgotten and Things Remembered

by Larry Alexander

February 18, 2025

It’s funny how memories long forgotten suddenly jump back into your conscious mind.

For example, one of my early recollections was growing up on the South Side of Chicago in the 1950s and playing Superman in the back yard with my brother, Jack.

As I like to tell the story, I was about 7 or 8-years old, and my brother was about 6-years-old. Jack said, “Take this rope…climb up the tree… and fly!” So I took the rope, climbed up the tree, tied the rope around my neck and a branch, slipped, and started to hang!

I was hanging from the tree and blowing like a leaf in the wind… and blacked out.

Later, I learned that my mom was on the second floor of our home, had a premonition, looked out the window, saw me hanging from the tree, and somehow was able to grab a knife and rush downstairs in time to save my life. All I remember when I became conscious was eating ice cream and being happy.

Another memory recently remembered: At Englewood High School, I was probably a sophomore, and we were in swim class. I recall the instructor removing the divider separating the shallow from the deep water, and a number of the boys yelled their approval and started to swim towards the deep water. I was stroking toward the deep water…when I realized that I couldn’t swim!

I panicked and sank. I came up and went down at least three times before someone was able to grab my struggling butt and drag me to the side of the pool. I learned from that experience not to always follow the crowd to try to fit in. It could have cost me my life!

The last two experiences that have resurfaced in my mind occurred when I was 21-years-old in July of 1970.

I was pledging Theta Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and had to walk from 4432 South Martin Luther King Drive to 47th street to purchase some items. As I was returning to the fraternity house, near 46th and King Drive, about five or six young men surrounded me and someone shouted, “Give us the money!”

Without thinking, my self-preservation instinct took over and I yelled, “I have a wife…I have a baby!”

Someone said, “Shoot that m###@@@f…shoot that m###@@@f!” I opened my hand with the money, and they took it and ran off.

I dusted myself off, and a woman raised her second floor window and said, “Are you okay, baby?” I replied that I was, composed myself, and returned to the Alpha House.

The first words out of my mouth to everyone were, “You are not going to believe this, but I was just robbed!”

Perhaps it was the calm tone of my voice and my composure, but some people expressed skepticism: “Okay, Perfecto, where’s the change?”

And in a recent group chat with Brothers, I told this story and one Brother said, “Okay, Perfecto, where’s the change?”

Exactly one week later, I was returning to my apartment on 59th and Union from a party late at night. Out of the alley, a man approached me, aimed a gun at my head and said, “D’s run it!”

I looked at the gun barrel and said, “I know Goon!” (I had seen the name Goon spray painted on a wall near 63rd and Union one day, and I assumed that Goon was a Gangster Disciple.)

He said, “You know Goon?”

“I know Goon!”

“Lie down on the ground!” My short life flashed in front of me, and I waited for the gunshot.

Then…he walked away. After a few moments, I got up and counted my blessing!!

And fifty plus years later, I am still counting my blessings! Funny the things you thought you had forgotten are still there waiting to be remembered.

The Study of Hip-Hop Music Can Promote Critical Thinking

by Larry Alexander

November 13, 2024

Introduction

This proposal aims to introduce educators to a dynamic and engaging way of teaching self-reflection, critical thinking, and personal development through the lens of hip-hop music, specifically my song “The Self-Knowledge Symphony.” The song conveys the transformative power of hip-hop as a tool for unlocking self-knowledge, which is essential for personal growth and liberation. By analyzing the song’s lyrics, students can be encouraged to reflect on their own identities, understand their roots, and engage in a meaningful exploration of the world around them.

Educational Objectives

The primary objectives of using “The Self-Knowledge Symphony” in the classroom are as follows:

  1. Promote Critical Thinking: Encourage students to analyze the song’s lyrics, identifying themes, metaphors, and messages related to self-knowledge, social awareness, and personal growth.
  2. Foster Self-Reflection: Help students explore their own identities and experiences, encouraging them to think deeply about their personal journey and the role of self-awareness in their lives.
  3. Explore Social Contexts: Investigate how hip-hop music, as a cultural form, can serve as a powerful vehicle for social commentary, introspection, and empowerment, particularly for marginalized communities.
  4. Encourage Discussion: Create a space for students to express their thoughts on the relevance of self-knowledge in today’s world, discussing how hip-hop can contribute to personal and collective transformation.

Structure of the Lesson

  1. Introduction to Hip-Hop and Self-Knowledge
    Begin by discussing the significance of hip-hop as a form of cultural expression, emphasizing its roots in marginalized communities and its potential for social change. Introduce the concept of “self-knowledge” and explain its importance in the context of personal growth and liberation.
  2. Song Analysis
    Break down the lyrics of “The Self-Knowledge Symphony,” paying close attention to:
    • Poetic Imagery: Explore metaphors such as “fifth element’s knowledge” and “symphony of self” to discuss how hip-hop uses vivid language to express complex ideas.
    • Themes of Empowerment: Discuss the line “knowledge of self, let it be decreed,” and prompt students to consider how self-awareness can lead to empowerment and liberation.
    • Cultural Reflection: Analyze how hip-hop serves as a mirror for both individual and collective experiences, encouraging students to reflect on their own lives and society.
  3. Group Discussion and Critical Analysis
    Facilitate a discussion about the song’s themes, guiding students to:
    • Share personal interpretations of the song’s message.
    • Debate the importance of self-knowledge in their own lives and in the broader context of society.
    • Reflect on how hip-hop music can influence their understanding of themselves and the world.
  4. Application to Personal Growth
    Encourage students to journal or create a personal reflection project inspired by the song. They can write about their own self-discovery journey, how they connect with the message of the song, and the ways in which they can use self-knowledge for personal and social empowerment.

Expected Outcomes

  • Enhanced Critical Thinking: Students will develop their ability to critically analyze lyrics and other forms of media, recognizing the deeper messages embedded within cultural expressions like hip-hop.
  • Increased Self-Awareness: Students will gain insights into their own identities, values, and goals, encouraging them to take ownership of their personal growth.
  • Improved Engagement: By incorporating hip-hop into the curriculum, students may feel more engaged in learning, especially those who identify with the culture or enjoy the music.
  • Cultural Understanding: Students will develop a deeper understanding of hip-hop as a positive, transformative force, rather than just entertainment, and learn about its role in promoting social consciousness.

Conclusion

“The Self-Knowledge Symphony” provides a unique opportunity for educators to integrate music into the classroom as a tool for teaching critical thinking, self-awareness, and social reflection. By engaging students with the song’s lyrics and themes, educators can help foster a learning environment that encourages introspection, self-expression, and meaningful discussions on personal and societal issues. This approach not only aligns with the educational goals of promoting intellectual growth but also taps into the cultural relevance and emotional resonance of hip-hop music, making the learning process both impactful and relevant to students’ lives.

Call to Action
I invite educators to consider integrating this song and its themes into their curriculum, whether in language arts, social studies, or personal development classes. The power of music, particularly hip-hop, lies in its ability to speak directly to the heart and mind—creating an engaging platform for learning that transcends traditional educational boundaries.

Disclaimer: Chat GPT was used to assist in the writing and editing of this blog post.

https://larryalexander.bandcamp.com/track/the-self-knowledge-symphony

How Hip-Hop Can Help Teens Understand Themselves Better

by Larry Alexander

July 8, 2024

I recently came across this great little video on YouTube from 2016 called “Finding Yourself Through Hip-Hop.” The video is a reminder of how hip-hop can be used in the classroom to help students write and record different emotional experiences, help them to articulate and analyze their experiences, and help them to understand themselves and the world better. 

Navigating Subject-Verb Agreement: A Practical Guide for College Students

by Larry Alexander

January 3, 2024

Happy New Year, Everyone!!

Introduction

As college students, clear and effective communication is paramount in academic writing. One critical aspect of grammar that often influences the coherence of your sentences is subject-verb agreement. Mastering this rule is essential for conveying your ideas accurately. In this article, we’ll delve into the fundamentals of subject-verb agreement to help you understand this idea better.

Understanding the Basics

Subject-verb agreement is a grammatical rule stating that the subject and verb in a sentence must agree in number. This means that if the subject is singular, the verb must be singular, and if the subject is plural, the verb must be plural. Let’s explore this concept with some examples:

  1. The student (singular) attends the lecture.
  2. The students (plural) attend the lecture.

In the first example, the singular subject “student” is paired with the singular verb “attends.” Conversely, in the second example, the plural subject “students” is matched with the plural verb “attend.”

Common Pitfalls and Solutions

Now, let’s identify some common pitfalls in subject-verb agreement and provide strategies to overcome them.

  1. False Subjects:
    • Incorrect: “The list of ingredients on the recipe sound delicious.”
    • Correct: “The list of ingredients on the recipe sounds delicious.”
    In this example, the true subject is “list,” which is singular. The verb “sounds” agrees with the singular subject.
  2. Compound Subjects:
    • Incorrect: “Peanut butter and jelly is my favorite sandwich.”
    • Correct: “Peanut butter and jelly are my favorite sandwich.”
    When dealing with compound subjects connected by “and,” use a plural verb.
  3. Collective Nouns:
    • Incorrect: “The committee decides on the issue.”
    • Correct: “The committee decide on the issue.”
    Collective nouns, like “committee,” can be tricky. In this case, the plural verb “decide” agrees with the collective noun “committee.”
  4. Indefinite Pronouns:
    • Incorrect: “None of the pizza has been eaten.”
    • Correct: “None of the pizza have been eaten.”
    Certain indefinite pronouns, such as “none,” can take either a singular or plural verb depending on the context. Here, the plural verb “have” is appropriate because it refers to the slices of pizza.

Practical Strategies for Mastery

  1. Listen for the S Sounds:
    • Pay attention to the sounds as you speak and write. This helps you catch instances where the s sounds in verbs might be dropped.
  2. Beware of False Subjects:
    • Ensure the verb agrees with the true subject, not a misleading noun.
  3. Practice with Compound Subjects:
    • When dealing with compound subjects, remember to use a plural verb.
  4. Mind Collective Nouns:
    • Treat collective nouns as singular or plural based on the context.
  5. Navigate Indefinite Pronouns:
    • Be aware of the nuances associated with indefinite pronouns and adjust your verb accordingly.

Conclusion

Subject-verb agreement is a foundational element of effective communication. By understanding the basics, recognizing common pitfalls, and employing practical strategies, you can enhance the clarity and precision of your writing. Regular practice and application of these principles will contribute to improved grammatical proficiency, ensuring your ideas are communicated accurately in the academic realm and beyond.

An Additional Resource

For a more detailed discussion of subject-verb agreement, please see the Paradigm Online Writing Assistant at:

https://www.powa.org/edit/six-problem-areas.html?start=1

##The Self-Knowledge Symphony Challenge

by Larry Alexander

December 13, 2023

Join the #SelfKnowledgeSymphony movement and unlock your true potential!

Hello,

I recently posted a TikTok challenge for my music video. The link is below, and I believe this will get a lot of participation from people.

I appreciate your shares and likes.

Larry

Here’s how to participate in my TikTok challenge.

1. Learn the hook:

Hip-hop’s the melody, fifth element’s the key,

Unlocking minds, setting spirits free,

From the blocks to the sea, to you and me,

Knowledge of self, let it be decreed.

2. Find your own rhythm:

Record yourself reciting the hook with passion and conviction.

Add your own personal flair through dancing, hand gestures, or facial expressions.

Let your unique self-knowledge shine through!

3. Share your symphony:

Post your video on TikTok with the hashtag #SelfKnowledgeSymphony.

Tag your friends and challenge them to join the movement.

Let’s build a community of self-awareness and positive change!

Bonus points for:

Incorporating your own lyrics about self-knowledge into the video.

Creating a visual representation of your self-knowledge concept.

Collaborating with others on a powerful and creative TikTok entry.

www.tiktok.com/@larkaren1906

@larkaren1906

SelfKnowledgeSymphony Challenge

♬ Upbeat Funk – FASSounds

The Self-Knowledge Symphony Music Video

by Larry Alexander

December 4, 2023

Greetings,

My music video on self-knowledge in hip-hop is below, and I appreciate your help in promoting this powerful message.

In YouTube, go to the setting button on the bottom right of the screen, and for quality check 1080p for high resolution viewing of the video.

Larry

#knowledge of self, it’s the guiding light

Message of Song

Employing poetic imagery and a mesmerizing beat, the message of my song is that knowledge of self is essential for personal growth and liberation. Hip-hop music is presented as a powerful tool for unlocking this self-knowledge. The lyrics emphasize the importance of self-reflection, understanding one’s roots, and embracing the journey of self-discovery.

“The Self-Knowledge Symphony” Lyrics

(Verse 1)
Cruising down the street, beats thumping in my chest,
Hip-hop’s the rhythm, wisdom’s the quest,
Fifth element’s knowledge, life’s ultimate test,
In this symphony of self, we manifest.

Knowledge of self, it’s the guiding light,
Ignites our path, makes the world so bright,
In the heart of hip-hop, taking flight,
Every lyric’s a lesson, feels just right.

(Chorus)
Hip-hop’s the melody, fifth element’s the key,
Unlocking minds, setting spirits free,
From the blocks to the sea, to you and me,
Knowledge of self, let it be decreed.

(Verse 2)
Hip-hop based educations not a cop-out, but a vibrant start,
Knowledge of self, embedded in every part,
Soul-searching lyrics, it’s an art,
Hip-hop’s mirror, reflects our chart.

Look within, find your truth, hear it clear,
In every beat, in every cheer,
Knowledge of self, dismissing fear,
In the hip-hop symphony, draw near.

(Chorus)
Hip-hop’s the melody, fifth element’s the key,
Unlocking minds, setting spirits free,
From the blocks to the sea, to you and me,
Knowledge of self, let it be decreed.

(Verse 3)
Crafting our future with wisdom’s rhyme,
In the fifth element, it’s our time,
Knowledge of self, the rhythm and the rhyme,
In the symphony of life, a paradigm.

Explicit content, a bridge to engage,
Understanding roots, breaking the cage,
Knowledge of self, let it guide our stage,
In this hip-hop story, let’s pen a new page.

(Chorus)
Hip-hop’s the melody, fifth element’s the key,
Unlocking minds, setting spirits free,
From the blocks to the sea, to you and me,
Knowledge of self, let it be decreed.

(Outro)

Navigate through life with knowledge as your crown,
Fifth element’s wisdom, never let it drown,

Embrace the journey, wear the self-knowledge gown,

In this hip-hop universe, wear your own crown.

So here’s to the beat, the rhythm, and the flow,
In hip-hop based education, self-knowledge will grow,
Elevating minds, let the wisdom glow,
In the hip-hop symphony, let’s let it show.

The Significance of Self-Knowledge in Hip-Hop Music

by Larry Alexander

September 17, 2025

“Well, hip-hop is what makes the world go around.” Snoop Dogg

“Hip-hop is supposed to uplift and create, to educate people on a larger level and to make a change.” Doug E. Fresh

“Bebop and hip-hop, in so many ways, they’re connected. A lot of rappers remind me so much of bebop guys in terms of improvisation, beats and rhymes. My dream is to see hip-hop incorporated in education. You’ve got the youth of the world in the palm of your hand.” Quincy Jones

“Hip-hop don’t have no fresh energy, none at all. It’s money driven, everybody tryin’ to make that cheque, nobody putting art in their albums any more.” Andre Benjamin (aka Andre 3000)

The Importance of Self-Knowledge

Hip-hop music, at its core, is a powerful medium for self-expression and social commentary. It has always been a platform for marginalized communities to share their experiences, challenge societal norms, and advocate for change. And at the heart of this transformative art form lies the pursuit of self-knowledge.

Self-knowledge, in the context of hip-hop, refers to the ongoing process of introspection, self-reflection, and understanding one’s identity, experiences, values, and emotions. It’s about gaining insight into oneself and developing a deep understanding of one’s strengths, weaknesses, aspirations, and personal growth.

Self-knowledge is not just a theme in hip-hop- it’s a driving force behind the art form’s transformative power. By encouraging individuals to delve into their own experiences and emotions, hip-hop promotes self-awareness and the ability to critically analyze oneself and the world around them.

This journey of self-discovery empowers individuals to harness their talents, work towards personal goals, and build confidence in their abilities. It also enables them to identify and overcome societal barriers and challenges that may hinder their progress.

Hip-Hop Music and Young People

The significance of self-knowledge is particularly amplified for young people, who are in the formative stages of developing their identities and navigating the complexities of life. 

Hip-hop music can serve as a guiding light, providing them with a platform for self-expression, exploration, and personal growth.

Hip-hop music can help young people identify who they are and what is important in life. 

Young people can learn from the resilience, creativity, and social consciousness embodied by many hip-hop artists.

Promoting Self-Knowledge

As we recognize the importance of self-knowledge in hip-hop, it’s crucial for various stakeholders to come together and promote its significance. 

-Music executives can leverage their influence to highlight the positive messages and transformative power of self-knowledge in hip-hop.

-Rappers, as role models and cultural influencers, can continue to incorporate themes of self-discovery, personal growth, and social consciousness into their music.

-Educators can integrate hip-hop into their curriculum, using it as a tool for teaching social awareness, self-expression, and critical thinking skills.

-Media representatives can play a vital role in promoting positive narratives and messages that emphasize the importance of self-knowledge in hip-hop. 

-Religious leaders can encourage self-reflection and personal growth within their communities, drawing parallels between spiritual values and the pursuit of self-understanding.

-Parents can engage in open and supportive conversations with their children about hip-hop, encouraging them to critically analyze the lyrics and messages they encounter.

-Young people can promote and support hip-hop artists who consistently create music that delves into themes of self-discovery and personal growth and can encourage music executives to take notice of these artists and incorporate their work into their mainstream platforms.

– Finally, the public can support artists who promote positive messages of self-knowledge and personal empowerment.

By fostering self-knowledge and encouraging individuals to embrace their true selves, hip-hop music has the potential to empower young people, challenge social norms, and inspire positive change. As we recognize the transformative power of self-knowledge in hip-hop, let’s collectively work to promote its importance and encourage its expression through music, education, and meaningful conversations.

Here’s to the Beat, the Rhythm, and the Flow: Introducing the Self-Knowledge Challenge

by Larry Alexander

November 16, 2023

Are you ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery and self-expression?

The Self-Knowledge Challenge is an opportunity to dive into the lyrics of my song and to share your unique interpretation with the world.

Here’s how it works: Participants will record a short clip, without music, expressing what self-knowledge means to them, followed by reading and recording one of the verses or the outro from my song. Whether you choose to read the first verse, second, third, or the outro, each section holds its own potential for self-expression and reflection.

I will evaluate your recording on various criteria, including delivery, tone, understanding of the lyrics, flow, and emotion. And I will carefully select a diverse group of participants to collaborate on music videos and contribute to an exceptional album on self-knowledge. Age is not a factor to participate.

Why should you participate?

First, it offers a unique platform for self-reflection and exploration, allowing you to connect with your emotions and experiences on a deeper level. It’s an opportunity to embrace your individuality and share your insights with a wider audience.

Second, by participating, you become part of an exceptional community of like-minded individuals who are passionate about personal growth and self-discovery. You’ll have the chance to interact with others and gain valuable insights and perspectives from your interpretation of the lyrics.

Last, by collaborating on music videos and contributing to an album on self-knowledge, you’ll leave a lasting impact on the world. Your voice will join others in creating a powerful and inspiring collection that celebrates the beauty of self-awareness and the transformative power of music.

I will be sharing more specifics of this project soon, and I look forward to working with you on my next music video!

And thank you for your continued support!

You can find a link to the song at: https://larryalexander.bandcamp.com/track/the-self-knowledge-symphony

You can also find registration information at this link for my pre-release party on November 30, 2023: Online Event Page | Eventbrite

Larry

The Self-Knowledge Symphony Lyrics

(Verse 1)
Cruising down the street, beats thumping in my chest,
Hip-hop’s the rhythm, wisdom’s the quest,
Fifth element’s knowledge, life’s ultimate test,
In this symphony of self, we manifest.

Knowledge of self, it’s the guiding light,
Ignites our path, makes the world so bright,
In the heart of hip-hop, taking flight,
Every lyric’s a lesson, feels just right.

(Chorus)
Hip-hop’s the melody, fifth element’s the key,
Unlocking minds, setting spirits free,
From the blocks to the sea, to you and me,
Knowledge of self, let it be decreed.

(Verse 2)
Hip-hop based education not a cop-out, but a vibrant start,
Knowledge of self, embedded in every part,
Soul-searching lyrics, it’s an art,
Hip-hop’s mirror, reflects our chart.

Look within, find your truth, hear it clear,
In every beat, in every cheer,
Knowledge of self, dismissing fear,
In the hip-hop symphony, draw near.

(Chorus)
Hip-hop’s the melody, fifth element’s the key,
Unlocking minds, setting spirits free,
From the blocks to the sea, to you and me,
Knowledge of self, let it be decreed.

(Verse 3)
Crafting our future with wisdom’s rhyme,
In the fifth element, it’s our time,
Knowledge of self, the rhythm and the rhyme,
In the symphony of life, a paradigm.

Explicit content, a bridge to engage,
Understanding roots, breaking the cage,
Knowledge of self, let it guide our stage,
In this hip-hop story, let’s pen a new page.

(Chorus)
Hip-hop’s the melody, fifth element’s the key,
Unlocking minds, setting spirits free,
From the blocks to the sea, to you and me,
Knowledge of self, let it be decreed.

(Outro)
Navigate through life, with knowledge as your crown,
Fifth element’s wisdom, never let it drown,
Embrace the journey, wear the self-knowledge gown,
In this hip-hop universe, wear your own crown.

So here’s to the beat, the rhythm, and the flow,
In hip-hop based education, self-knowledge will grow,
Elevating minds, let the wisdom glow,
In the hip-hop symphony, let’s let it show.

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

by Larry Alexander

September 10, 2024

Photo by Timothy Works on Pexels.com


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.