The ‘Divine Nine ‘ — and How Black Fraternities and Sororities Benefit Communities Long After College

When fraternities and sororities make the news these days, too often it's for bad behavior or controversial antics.How refreshing, then, to see a recent story highlighting the longstanding unity and commitment to service of thousands of North Texas members of the "Divine Nine," five fraternities and four sororities whose good works go back decades.The bond these African-American groups forged — some more than a century ago — has been particularly important through this region's history, when institutional racism and violence plagued Dallas and surrounding cities. It's impressive that these strong lifelines continue today.At a time when racial tensions are still high, understanding the legacy of these organizations can provide needed context to the painful past, and optimism that we can remain strong and productive in the face of struggles.The network includes fraternities Alpha Phi Alpha, Kappa Alpha Psi, Omega Psi Phi, Phi Beta Sigma and Iota Phi Theta, and sororities Alpha Kappa Alpha, Delta Sigma Theta, Zeta Phi Beta and Sigma Gamma Rho. They formed to help students cope with isolation and obstacles on college campuses.  Continue reading...