Delta Sigma Theta Sorority is a historically Black sorority founded on January 13, 1913, at Howard University, focusing on sisterhood, scholarship, and service. The organization has played a vital role in advocating for civil rights and social justice, particularly among African American women, and has a strong legacy of leadership and activism.
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Delta Sigma Theta was founded by 22 college-educated women who were determined to promote academic excellence and provide assistance to those in need.
The sorority is known for its commitment to public service, with members often engaging in various community outreach programs and initiatives.
Delta Sigma Theta has grown to include over 1,000 chapters worldwide, making it one of the largest Black sororities in the United States.
The sorority's national programs focus on economic development, educational development, international awareness and involvement, physical and mental health, political awareness and involvement, and social justice.
Prominent members of Delta Sigma Theta include civil rights leaders like Shirley Chisholm and activists like Barbara Jordan, highlighting the sorority's legacy in shaping political and social change.
Review Questions
How has Delta Sigma Theta Sorority contributed to the empowerment of African American women in leadership roles?
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority has empowered African American women by providing a platform for leadership development through its educational programs and community service initiatives. By encouraging members to engage in activism and public service, the sorority fosters a sense of responsibility among women to lead and advocate for their communities. This commitment has helped shape numerous leaders who have made significant impacts in various fields.
In what ways did Delta Sigma Theta's founding members respond to the social issues of their time?
The founding members of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority responded to social issues by establishing an organization that focused on addressing the needs of African American communities during a time of racial discrimination and social injustice. They recognized the importance of education and public service as tools for empowerment. Through initiatives that promoted civil rights and community involvement, they laid the groundwork for future activism within the sorority.
Evaluate the impact of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority on contemporary movements for social justice and equality.
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority continues to have a significant impact on contemporary movements for social justice by leveraging its history of activism and community service to address current issues such as racial inequality and women's rights. The organization's established national programs encourage members to engage in advocacy efforts that resonate with modern movements like Black Lives Matter. By fostering collaboration among its members and other organizations, Delta Sigma Theta plays an essential role in mobilizing efforts toward systemic change and social progress.
Related terms
Sisterhood: A bond among women that promotes unity, support, and mutual empowerment, central to the mission of Delta Sigma Theta.
A pivotal social movement during the 1950s and 1960s aimed at ending racial discrimination and securing equal rights for African Americans.
National Pan-Hellenic Council: An umbrella organization of nine historically Black Greek-letter organizations, including Delta Sigma Theta, that promotes collaboration and community engagement.