First Sorority for African American Women Established

January 15th, 1908

January 15th, 1908

First Sorority for African American Women Established
How Long Ago?

117 years, 2 months ago

Location

Washington, D.C., United States

Category

Social Movements & Civil Rights

People
  • Ethel Hedgeman Lyle
  • Minnie Beatrice Smith
  • Lillie E. Burks
  • Margaret E. Flagg
  • Anna Easter Brown
Links & References
Tags

First Sorority for African American Women Established

Founded at Howard University, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. was established by a group of college women led by Ethel Hedgeman Lyle. Their aim was to provide support, sisterhood, and scholarship among African American women in higher education. The founding members sought to promote academic excellence, community service, and activism, addressing the unique challenges faced by African American women in the early 20th century. This organization became the first of its kind, paving the way for future Greek-letter organizations. Alpha Kappa Alpha’s founding marked a significant advance in fostering leadership and outreach within the African American community.

Founded at Howard University, D.C.

First Greek-letter sorority for Black women.

Promotes academics and community service.

Continues to impact social justice today.

What Happened?

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated was established as the first Greek-letter organization for African American college women at Howard University in Washington, D.C. This initiative took place during a time of severe racial discrimination and segregation in the United States, which severely limited opportunities for African Americans, particularly women. The sorority was founded by Ethel Hedgeman Lyle and a group of her peers who recognized the necessity of creating an organization that would empower women through academic and social support. The founding members aimed for their sisterhood to foster civic engagement, cultural awareness, and community service, addressing prevalent social issues in the African American community.

The sorority officially began on January 15, 1908, with a mission to promote high scholastic standards and encourage unity and sisterhood among African American women. Alpha Kappa Alpha’s initial activities included organizing educational programs and community service projects that would uplift their communities and provide support to college women. As the organization grew, it developed into a national sorority, establishing many chapters across the United States and supporting myriad initiatives concerning social justice, healthcare, and education.

Even today, Alpha Kappa Alpha continues to influence the lives of countless women through its commitment to excellence and community service. The principles set forth at its inception remain a bedrock of its mission, allowing it to adapt to contemporary issues while preserving its rich heritage. Each chapter upholds the tenets of leadership and empowerment, fostering a sense of community and purpose among its members. This initial gathering of women sparked the creation of numerous other sororities and organizations aimed at supporting African American women in academia and beyond, showcasing the enduring impact of this momentous occasion.

Why Does it Matter?

The establishment of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority heralded a new era for African American women in education and social activism. It opened doors for countless women and inspired similar organizations, thus creating a rich legacy of cultural empowerment. The sorority has played a pivotal role in advocating for civil rights, education reform, and health awareness, marking its importance in U.S. history.

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