In Search of Sisterhood

1. Delta Sigma Theta: A Sisterhood Forged in Activism and Scholarship

When, in 1913, those twenty-two students organized Delta Sigma Theta, they added an important and vital dimension to the “Black sorority idea”—an idea that filled such a compelling need, that gained such wide currency among college-educated women, it became a full-fledged social movement.

A legacy of leadership. Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., founded in 1913 at Howard University, emerged as a powerful force in the Black community, driven by a commitment to sisterhood, scholarship, and social action. Its early members included prominent figures like Mary Church Terrell, who penned the Delta Oath, and Sadie T.M. Alexander, the first Black woman to earn a Ph.D. in economics. These women set a precedent for leadership and service that continues to inspire Deltas today.

Education as empowerment. Recognizing the limited opportunities available to Black women in the early 20th century, Delta Sigma Theta emphasized education as a means of empowerment and uplift. The sorority provided scholarships, mentorship, and a supportive network for its members, enabling them to excel academically and professionally. This focus on education distinguished Delta from other Greek-letter organizations and solidified its role as a social movement organization.

Activism from the start. From its inception, Delta Sigma Theta was committed to addressing the pressing social and political issues of the day. The sorority's first public act was participating in the 1913 Women's Suffrage March in Washington, D.C., demonstrating its commitment to women's rights and racial equality. This early activism laid the foundation for Delta's long history of advocacy and social justice work.

2. Navigating Identity: Black Greek Life in a Segregated America

However, the particular needs of Black students in general, and women in particular, made the history of Black Greek-letter groups distinct both in degree and kind from those of their White counterparts.

Distinct needs, distinct organizations. Black Greek-letter organizations, including Delta Sigma Theta, arose to address the unique challenges faced by Black students in a segregated America. These organizations provided a sense of community, support, and empowerment in an environment often marked by discrimination and exclusion. They also served as training grounds for leadership and activism, preparing Black students to become agents of change in their communities.

Scholarship and achievement. Black Greek-letter groups placed a strong emphasis on scholarship and achievement, reflecting the importance of education as a tool for advancement in a society that doubted Black intellectual capabilities. Membership in these organizations became a symbol of academic distinction and a source of pride for Black students. This emphasis on scholarship distinguished Black Greek life from its White counterparts, which often focused more on social activities.

Racial uplift and community service. Black Greek-letter organizations were deeply committed to racial uplift and community service. Members saw themselves as having a responsibility to use their education and skills to improve the lives of other Black people. This commitment to service shaped the activities and priorities of Black Greek-letter groups, making them vital institutions in the Black community.

3. The Seeds of Change: Dissatisfaction and the Drive for a New Vision

A group of us felt that it was time for another sorority,” recalled Naomi Richardson. “We had broader views. We wanted to reach out in the community. We wanted to be more than just a social group. We wanted to do more, when we graduated, for the community in which we were going.

A desire for greater impact. In 1912, a group of young women within Alpha Kappa Alpha (AKA), the first Black sorority, felt a growing dissatisfaction with the organization's focus. They sought a sorority with a broader vision, one that extended beyond social activities to encompass community service, political activism, and national outreach. This desire for greater impact fueled the movement to establish Delta Sigma Theta.

Key areas of divergence:

• National scope: The founders of Delta envisioned a national organization with chapters across the country, while AKA was primarily a local group.
• Political engagement: Delta sought to be more politically active, addressing issues such as woman suffrage and racial justice.
• Name and symbols: The founders of Delta wanted a name and symbols that reflected their unique identity and purpose, rather than simply imitating those of White Greek-letter groups.

A bold move for change. Driven by their vision for a more impactful sorority, the twenty-two young women made the courageous decision to break away from AKA and establish Delta Sigma Theta. This act of self-determination set the stage for Delta's future as a leading force for social change.

4. From Local to National: Building a Purposeful Organization

Realizing that there was no true sorority in Howard University, and desiring to form one which would measure favorably with any secret organization, anywhere, the active members of an existing club by unanimous consent reorganized into a chartered organization to be known as the Alpha Chapter of the Delta Sigma Theta sorority of Howard University.

A new beginning. With its official founding on January 13, 1913, Delta Sigma Theta embarked on a journey to create a new kind of Black women's organization. The sorority's early focus was on establishing a strong foundation, defining its purpose, and attracting members who shared its vision. The founders emphasized scholarship, leadership development, and a commitment to serving the Black community.

Expanding the vision. Delta quickly expanded beyond Howard University, establishing chapters at other colleges and universities across the country. This national outreach allowed the sorority to connect with Black women from diverse backgrounds and to address a wider range of social and political issues. The establishment of Beta Chapter at Wilberforce University in 1914 marked a pivotal moment in Delta's growth.

Defining the mission. As Delta grew, it refined its mission and objectives, emphasizing the importance of public service, political activism, and support for Black women in the arts. The sorority's early activities, such as participating in the Women's Suffrage March and providing scholarships for Black artists, reflected its commitment to these values. The creation of graduate chapters further solidified Delta's commitment to lifelong service and sisterhood.

5. The Power of Unity: Black Women's Organizations as Catalysts for Change

Throughout its seventy-five-year-old history, Delta Sigma Theta has maintained a stable yet dynamic organization that has consistently rendered service to its community.

A force for progress. Black women's organizations, like Delta Sigma Theta, have played a crucial role in advancing the rights and well-being of Black people in America. These organizations have provided a platform for Black women to exercise leadership, advocate for social justice, and address the specific challenges facing their communities. They have also served as a vital source of support and empowerment for Black women, who have often been marginalized and excluded from mainstream institutions.

Addressing multiple challenges. Black women's organizations have historically addressed a wide range of issues, including education, healthcare, economic development, and civil rights. They have also been at the forefront of efforts to combat racism, sexism, and other forms of discrimination. By addressing these multiple challenges, Black women's organizations have made a significant contribution to the progress of Black people and the advancement of social justice.

A legacy of collaboration. Black women's organizations have often worked in coalition with other groups, including civil rights organizations, labor unions, and women's rights groups. This collaborative approach has allowed them to amplify their impact and achieve greater success in their advocacy efforts. The National Council of Negro Women (NCNW), founded by Mary McLeod Bethune, is a prime example of a collaborative organization that has brought together Black women's groups to address pressing social issues.

6. Balancing Act: Maintaining Sisterhood Amidst Societal Transformation

The challenge of the sorority, one made all the more difficult by the pathos of the Black women’s experience in North America, is to maintain that sense of sisterhood while striving, organizationally, for a more general purpose: aiding the Black community as a whole through social, political, and economic means.

The core of sisterhood. At the heart of Delta Sigma Theta is a strong sense of sisterhood, a bond that connects its members across generations and geographical boundaries. This sisterhood provides a source of support, encouragement, and inspiration, enabling Deltas to overcome challenges and achieve their goals. Maintaining this sense of sisterhood is essential to the sorority's continued success.

Evolving priorities. As society changes, Delta Sigma Theta must adapt its priorities and strategies to remain relevant and effective. This requires a constant balancing act between maintaining its core values and responding to the evolving needs of the Black community. The sorority must also navigate internal debates and disagreements, ensuring that all voices are heard and that decisions are made in a democratic and inclusive manner.

The challenge of relevance. In times of rapid social and political change, Delta Sigma Theta must confront the challenge of remaining relevant to its members and the broader community. This requires a willingness to embrace new ideas, adapt to changing circumstances, and address the pressing issues of the day. The sorority must also be mindful of its history and traditions, ensuring that its actions are guided by its core values and principles.

7. The Movement Years: Delta's Role in Civil Rights and Social Justice

From a self-contained group of college students, the sorority took on the goals of public service and support for those organizations that sought political change.

A call to action. The Civil Rights Movement of the 1950s and 1960s presented Delta Sigma Theta with a new set of challenges and opportunities. The sorority responded by becoming more actively involved in the struggle for racial equality, supporting civil rights organizations, and advocating for legislative change. This period marked a significant turning point in Delta's history, as it solidified its commitment to social justice and its role as a force for change.

Supporting the movement. Delta Sigma Theta played a vital role in supporting the Civil Rights Movement. The sorority provided financial assistance to civil rights organizations, organized voter registration drives, and participated in protests and demonstrations. Individual Deltas, such as Daisy Bates, became leaders in the movement, inspiring others to join the fight for equality.

Advocating for legislative change. Delta Sigma Theta actively lobbied for the passage of landmark civil rights legislation, including the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965. The sorority's members testified before Congress, organized letter-writing campaigns, and mobilized public support for these crucial laws. Delta's advocacy efforts helped to ensure that these laws were passed and that Black people were granted equal rights under the law.

8. Redefining Service: From Charity to Systemic Change

Its mandate for the next century, following its own evolutionary path, is to continue its ever-increasing abilities to render public service, and to enlarge its concept to embrace and directly impact on public policy.

Beyond traditional philanthropy. As Delta Sigma Theta matured, it began to shift its focus from traditional charitable activities to more systemic approaches to addressing social problems. This involved advocating for policy changes, promoting economic development, and empowering individuals to become agents of change in their communities. This shift reflected a growing understanding that lasting progress required addressing the root causes of inequality, not just treating the symptoms.

Empowering communities. Delta Sigma Theta recognized the importance of empowering Black communities to take control of their own destinies. The sorority supported initiatives that promoted economic self-sufficiency, educational attainment, and civic engagement. By empowering individuals and communities, Delta sought to create lasting change from the ground up.

Impacting public policy. Delta Sigma Theta has increasingly focused on influencing public policy to address systemic inequalities. The sorority has lobbied for legislation, advocated for policy changes, and worked to elect officials who are committed to social justice. By engaging in the political process, Delta seeks to create a more equitable and just society for all.

9. The Modern Era: Delta's Enduring Legacy of Empowerment

This can’t be done by fiat, but rather must be accomplished through a transformative vision internalized by the membership—a vision that will allow it to realize its extraordinary potential and continue to attract committed women.

A transformative vision. Delta Sigma Theta's enduring success lies in its ability to inspire a transformative vision within its membership. This vision, rooted in sisterhood, scholarship, and service, empowers Deltas to make a meaningful difference in the world. By attracting and nurturing committed women, Delta ensures that its legacy of empowerment will continue for generations to come.

Adapting to new challenges. As the 21st century unfolds, Delta Sigma Theta faces new challenges and opportunities. The sorority must adapt to changing demographics, technological advancements, and evolving social and political landscapes. By embracing innovation and remaining true to its core values, Delta can continue to be a leading force for positive change.

A beacon of hope. Throughout its history, Delta Sigma Theta has served as a beacon of hope for Black women and the Black community as a whole. The sorority's commitment to empowerment, social justice, and sisterhood has inspired countless individuals to overcome obstacles and achieve their dreams. As it looks toward the future, Delta Sigma Theta remains dedicated to building a more just and equitable world for all.

Last updated: March 8, 2025