The historic election of Kamala Harris as Vice President of the United States, the first woman and first Black and Asian American to hold the office, resonated deeply within the Black Greek Letter Organizations (BGLOs), commonly known as Black sororities and fraternities. For these organizations, deeply rooted in community service and activism, Harris’s rise represents a culmination of decades of work and a powerful symbol of progress.
Harris, a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. (AKA), exemplifies the values and dedication ingrained in the BGLO community. These organizations, founded in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, were created to address the systemic racism and discrimination faced by Black Americans. They provided a safe space for Black students to thrive academically and socially, while also fostering a commitment to community upliftment.
“Seeing Kamala Harris become Vice President is a testament to the power of Black sororities and fraternities,” says Dr. Tonya Peeples, a professor of African American Studies and a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. “She embodies the values of service, scholarship, and leadership that we strive to instill in our members.”
The BGLO community has a long history of supporting Black political figures. During the Civil Rights Movement, members played crucial roles in organizing protests, registering voters, and advocating for social justice. Today, their influence remains strong, with many members holding prominent positions in government, education, and business.
Harris’s election has sparked renewed enthusiasm within the BGLO community. “It’s inspiring to see someone who understands our struggles and our aspirations in such a high position,” says Michael Johnson, a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. “It gives us hope for a more inclusive future.”
The BGLO community is not only celebrating Harris’s achievement but also recognizing the significance of her role as a symbol of representation. Her presence in the White House is a powerful message for young Black people, particularly women, showing them that their dreams are attainable.
“Kamala Harris’s election is a turning point for our community,” says Dr. Peeples. “It shows that Black women, and Black people in general, can achieve anything they set their minds to.”
As the BGLO community celebrates this historic moment, they also acknowledge the ongoing fight for racial justice. Harris’s election serves as a reminder that the work of these organizations is far from finished. They remain dedicated to empowering their members and advocating for equality and opportunity for all.
The legacy of Black sororities and fraternities is deeply intertwined with the pursuit of justice and progress. With Kamala Harris as a role model, they are poised to continue their work, inspiring future generations to reach for their full potential and build a more equitable society.