Delta Sigma Theta: A Legacy of Sisterhood, Scholarship, and Service

Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. (ΔΣΘ) stands as a beacon of sisterhood, scholarship, and service, deeply rooted in the principles of African American heritage and dedicated to uplifting communities worldwide. Founded on January 13, 1913, by twenty-two visionary women at Howard University in Washington, D.C., the sorority has blossomed into an international organization boasting over 350,000 members and more than 1,000 chapters spanning the globe. From its historic beginnings advocating for women's suffrage to its contemporary initiatives addressing critical social issues, Delta Sigma Theta has remained steadfast in its commitment to empowering individuals and transforming lives.

The Genesis of a Sisterhood

The seeds of Delta Sigma Theta were sown when a group of women, some of whom were former members of Alpha Kappa Alpha, sought a new direction for their sorority. Driven by a desire to effect change in the organization's name, symbols, and overall purpose, these women believed that Alpha Kappa Alpha lacked a clear charter and a strong legal foundation. In 1912, they proposed a vote to alter the organization's name, but their efforts were met with resistance. Undeterred, these twenty-two women convened on January 13, 1913, and established Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., embarking on a mission to reorganize and incorporate. The Alpha chapter was officially incorporated on February 18, 1913, solidifying the sorority's foundation. Years later, on January 20, 1930, the Grand Chapter achieved national incorporation, paving the way for Delta Sigma Theta's continued growth and impact.

Early Actions and Expansion

Immediately following its inception, Delta Sigma Theta members wasted no time in establishing infrastructure and implementing programs. One of their first endeavors was the creation of an oath, penned by Mary Church Terrell in 1914, which encapsulated the sorority's values and aspirations. Delta Sigma Theta quickly expanded its reach, establishing the Beta chapter at Wilberforce University on February 5, 1914, followed by the Gamma chapter at the University of Pennsylvania in 1918. Recognizing that membership extended beyond undergraduate studies, the sorority established alumnae chapters to cater to the needs of its growing network of members.

A Decade of Development and Uniformity

The 1920s marked a period of significant development for Delta Sigma Theta, characterized by the standardization of programming and enhanced communication among chapters. In 1920, the sorority introduced May Week, an initiative designed to encourage Black women to pursue higher education. That same year, "The Delta" was established as the official publication of the sorority, providing a platform for sharing news, insights, and perspectives. Additionally, the Omega chapter was created to honor deceased members, ensuring that their contributions would never be forgotten. Delta Sigma Theta's expansion continued westward with the chartering of the Kappa chapter at the University of California in February 1921. In 1925, the sorority established geographical regions to facilitate better coordination and support among chapters. The Jabberwock, a scholarship fundraiser featuring cultural expression and talent, was also introduced during this period.

Incorporation and National Initiatives

Faced with potential challenges to its name, Delta Sigma Theta sought national incorporation to secure its legal standing and facilitate the expansion of chapters. With national incorporation achieved in 1930, chartering new chapters became more streamlined for regional leadership. The sorority launched the National Library Project in 1937, aimed at providing access to books for Black communities in rural areas of the South where library services were limited or inaccessible. During World War II, Delta Sigma Theta organized the National Victory Book Drive in 1943 to provide reading materials to servicemen. In 1945, the sorority demonstrated its commitment to education by donating its first $1,000 to the United Negro College Fund.

International Outreach and a Centralized Focus

Recognizing the global struggles faced by people of African descent, Delta Sigma Theta established its first foreign chapter in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, in 1950, extending its reach beyond the borders of the United States. As the sorority's programming expanded and its membership grew, Delta Sigma Theta leadership recognized the need for a central location to house its properties and records. In 1953, the sorority dedicated its first National Headquarters, providing a hub for its operations and activities. To ensure that all chapters focused their programming around a unified theme, the Five-Point Thrust was implemented in 1956 by the 10th National President Dorothy Height. This framework encompasses Educational Development, Economic Development, Physical and Mental Health, Political Awareness and Involvement, and International Awareness and Involvement, guiding Delta Sigma Theta's initiatives to address critical needs within the African American community and beyond.

Advocacy and Social Action

Delta Sigma Theta has consistently championed social justice and equality throughout its history. In 1960, the sorority co-sponsored the National Organization of Women for Equality in Education conference, underscoring its commitment to gender equality in education. During its 50th anniversary in 1963, Delta Sigma Theta participated in the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom, demonstrating its solidarity with the civil rights movement. The sorority also established the Social Action Commission at its 27th National Convention, solidifying its role as an advocate for social change. In 1966, Delta Teen Lift was established, providing opportunities for youth development and empowerment. In 1967, the Delta Sigma Theta Executive Board was received in the White House by President Lyndon B. Johnson to discuss community issues and concerns, highlighting the sorority's influence and engagement in policy matters.

A Golden Anniversary and Continued Progress

Delta Sigma Theta celebrated its Golden Anniversary in 1963, coinciding with the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. The Golden Anniversary Luncheon was graced by the presence of President John F. Kennedy, who commended the sorority on its anniversary and emphasized the importance of equal education opportunities for all Americans. Vice President Lyndon B. Johnson and Supreme Court Justice William O. Douglas also attended the luncheon, underscoring the significance of the occasion.

Addressing Educational Disparities

Recognizing the persistent de facto discriminatory practices in schooling and public accommodations, Delta Sigma Theta understood the importance of education in eradicating discrimination. In 1971, the sorority co-sponsored National Policy Conferences on Education for Blacks with the Congressional Black Caucus, addressing disparities and deficiencies in schools with high Black populations. The right-to-read program was established in 1973 to combat functional illiteracy, further demonstrating Delta Sigma Theta's commitment to educational empowerment.

Commemorating Fortitude

In 1979, the Fortitude sculpture was unveiled on the campus of Howard University, serving as a tribute to the founders of Delta Sigma Theta. The sculpture, depicting a woman with short hair, a sleeveless dress, and high heels, embodies the sorority's values of strength, courage, and resilience. The sculpture was surveyed as part of the Smithsonian's Save Outdoor Sculpture survey in 1993, ensuring its preservation for future generations.

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Summits and National Focus

In the early 1980s, Delta Sigma Theta initiated a series of "Summits" to address pressing issues within the African American community. These summits brought attention to issues affecting minorities and women that were often overlooked in the United States. Summit I, held in 1981, focused on issues affecting American women, while Summit II, a call to action in support of single parenting, took place in 1984. In 1987, the Delta Research and Education Foundation sponsored an international conference in Nassau, Bahamas, entitled "Woman to Woman: Single Parenting from a Global Perspective," highlighting the global dimensions of this issue.

Expanding Reach and Impact

With its extensive programming and growing membership, Delta Sigma Theta sought to expand its reach and impact even further. The First Delta Days in the Nation's Capital was held in 1990 in Washington, D.C., providing a platform for Delta members to engage with congressional members and discuss policies affecting minorities and women. In 1992, Delta Sigma Theta became the first African American organization to collaborate with Habitat for Humanity, building homes for those in need and demonstrating its commitment to affordable housing. Summit III, held in 1993, focused on preparing young men for manhood, addressing alarming dropout and incarceration rates among young men. In 1996, Delta Sigma Theta partnered with Habitat for Humanity to build 40 homes in Ghana, expanding its international outreach. The sorority also adopted the Adelaide Tambo School for the Physically Disabled in South Africa, providing support and resources to students with disabilities. In that same year, Delta Sigma Theta received $1.6 million from the National Science Foundation for Project SEE (Science and Everyday Experiences), promoting science education in underserved communities. The sorority also traveled to Swaziland to break ground for the Delta House, providing housing for children orphaned by HIV/AIDS, and dedicated a computer training center in Lesotho, empowering individuals with technology skills.

Centennial Celebration

Delta Sigma Theta launched a year-long centennial celebration on January 1, 2013, marking 100 years of sisterhood, scholarship, and service. The celebration began with Delta Sigma Theta's historic participation in the Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena, California, as the first Black Greek letter organization to have a float in the parade. The float, entitled "Transforming Communities through Sisterhood and Service," showcased the sorority's commitment to positive change. Officials in Pasadena presented a proclamation to national president Cynthia M. A. Butler-McIntyre, recognizing Delta Sigma Theta's contributions. Hundreds of Delta Sigma Theta members gathered in New York City's Times Square for appearances on the Today Show and Good Morning America, followed by a caravan to Washington, D.C., with buses adorned with the Centennial logo. Thousands of Delta Sigma Theta members participated in the annual Delta Days at the Nation's Capital, engaging with members of Congress to discuss issues affecting women and the Black community. The sorority rebuilt a school in Haiti, naming it The Cynthia M. A. Butler-McIntyre Campus, in honor of its national president. The rebuilt school featured larger classrooms, new technologies, an administrative office building, and access to clean water. Designated areas of the school were named in honor of former national presidents, recognizing their leadership and contributions. The sorority celebrated its Centennial Convention in Washington, D.C., with over 40,000 members participating in service activities and recognition events. A 22-city tour of the Delta Torch, symbolizing the sorority's global reach, commenced in Los Angeles and culminated in Washington, D.C., at the 51st National Convention. During the Centennial Convention, the mayor of Washington D.C. honored the work of the sorority by renaming the 1700 block of New Hampshire Ave NW in Washington, D.C. Throughout 2013, Delta Sigma Theta was honored in various ways, including being featured in a Wal-Mart commercial, being recognized by the Cleveland Cavaliers NBA team, and being highlighted by CNN, MSNBC, The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and The Washington Post. A Delta Sigma Theta-themed window was dedicated at Andrew Rankin Memorial Chapel at Howard University, further solidifying the sorority's legacy.

Symbols and Traditions

Delta Sigma Theta's motto, "Intelligence is the Torch of Wisdom," reflects the sorority's commitment to education and intellectual pursuits. Its badge features the Greek letters "ΔΣΘ" with nine jewels on the middle letter. The official Delta Sigma Theta Hymn, written by Florence Cole Talbert and Alice Dunbar Nelson, was adopted in 1924, serving as a source of inspiration and unity for members. Delta Sigma Theta's colors, crimson and cream, symbolize courage and purity, respectively. The sorority's symbol, Lady Fortitude, embodies strength, courage, and resilience. Other symbols include the pyramid and the Delta torch, representing the sorority's foundation and its pursuit of knowledge and enlightenment.

Global Reach and Membership

Delta Sigma Theta has a vast network of chapters located in the United States, Canada, the Caribbean, England, Germany, Korea, Japan, Bermuda, Jamaica, Virgin Islands, West Africa, South Africa, and the Bahamas. With over 350,000 members worldwide, Delta Sigma Theta is the largest African American women's organization in the world. During the membership intake period, initiates are members of the Pyramid Club, learning about the sorority's history, values, and traditions.

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National Headquarters

In 1953, Delta Sigma Theta purchased a national headquarters site in Washington, D.C., providing a central location for its operations. In 1972, the sorority moved its headquarters to New Hampshire Ave. NW in Dupont Circle, further expanding its presence in the nation's capital. The sorority headquarters is currently located at 1701, 1703, 1705, 1707, and 1709 New Hampshire Avenue, N.W., serving as a hub for its activities and initiatives.

Regional Structure and Programmatic Thrust

In 1925, Delta Sigma Theta began organizing its chapters into geographical regions, facilitating better coordination and support among members. Delta Sigma Theta provides public service initiatives through the Five-Point Program Thrust, addressing critical challenges faced by people in the United States and internationally. The Five-Point Programmatic Thrust serves as an organizing structure for Delta Sigma Theta's programs, benefiting the African-American community and beyond. Each program's development and implementation operates cooperatively, coordinated by committees, the national executive board, and national headquarters staff. The Jabberwock, an annual variety show featuring cultural expression and talent, serves as a scholarship fundraiser, supporting Delta Sigma Theta's commitment to education.

Notable Delta Sigma Theta Alumnae

Delta Sigma Theta boasts a distinguished roster of alumnae who have made significant contributions in various fields. These women exemplify the sorority's values of leadership, scholarship, and service, inspiring others to reach their full potential.

Paulette C: A trailblazing actress.
Cheryl W: An accomplished businesswoman.
Dr. : A dedicated educator.
: A visionary leader.
: An influential figure.
: A remarkable athlete.
: An innovative artist.
: A distinguished academic.

A Legacy of L.O.V.E.

Delta Sigma Theta's legacy is one of Leadership, Opportunity, Vision, and Empowerment (L.O.V.E.). The sorority has been recognized for its exemplary programming in voter education and mobilization, outstanding chapter operations, and service to the community. Delta Sigma Theta's commitment to community service has been acknowledged through prestigious awards, including the H. J. C. Award for outstanding contributions to the participants at the H. J. C.

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