Sphinx Vol.106#2 | Political Issue by Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity

Special Political Edition | Volume 106, No. 2

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

CONTENTS

features 48 A Charge To Keep: Brother Brigadier General Charles McGee

in this special issue 3 Letters

6 To Be Counted & Heard

13 History

24 Servant Leaders

35 Political Ideology & Action

55 International

Brothers On The Move

64 Literary

67 Chapter News

76 The Brand

81 Omega Chapter

97 Leadership Directory

CONTENTS

SPHINX

Official Publication of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. SPECIAL POLITICAL EDITION | Volume 106, No. 2 apa1906.net INTERIM EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Eric Christopher Webb., DDiv., CPLC ewebb@apa1906.net LAYOUT EDITOR AND CREATIVE DIRECTOR Malik Whatley CONTRIBUTORS Everett B. Ward, Milton C. Davis, Joseph G. Paul, Eric Christopher Webb, Nehemiah Bester, Steven Horsford, Bryan L. Evans, Austin Cooper, Robert L. Harris, Jr., Rawn James, Jr., Donald Ross, Vic Carter, William J. Barber, Eugene B. Robinson, Adrian Stratton, Walter T. Tillman, Jr., Horace Dawson, Gerald Sherman, Christopher G. Ellis, Jr., Paul C. Webster, Robert Stewart, Morris Autry, Lawrence Davis, Bryan L. Evans, John S. Kendall, Mark S. Davis, Ii, Steven D. Carter PHOTOGRAPHERS Malik Whatley, Nehemiah Bester, E. Martin Labat, Jamal Hardman, Calvin Roberts

PUBLICATIONS COMMITTEE Ramon E. Peralta, Jr., L.H.D., Chair Paul E. Brown, Donald Ross, Vic Carter, LeMarcus Hall, Steven Misher, Jeffrey E. Sterling, Charles Curtis EDITORIAL OFFICES Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. 2313 St. Paul Street Baltimore, MD 212I8-5211 www.apa1906.net ADVERTISING AND SALES ads@apa1906.net COVER DESIGN BY: peraltadesign.com and Malik Whatley DESIGN AND PRINTING Mercury Publishing Services, Inc. (800) 634-9409

ON THE COVER This Special Edition Of The Sphinx Examines Political Thought And Representative Government. Credit: peraltadesign.com and Malik Whatley

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CONTENTS

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FROM THE GENERAL PRESIDENT

Letter from the General President My Brothers of Alpha: It seems like only yesterday that I watched my father lead the voting process as a precinct chairman and my mother register voters in the 1960’s and 1970’s. I knew their collective actions, in concert with countless other citizens, were dedicated to realizing a better day for me and future generations. Their political and civic engagement is reflected in the Greek Proverb which reminds us that “a society grows great when old men (and women) plant trees whose shade they know they shall never sit in.” As a lifelong son of the American South and as a student of leadership, I recognized that positive change for our communities occurred only after a strategically directed political and civic engagement. Unfortunately, the struggle for justice and equality continues and we must fight some of the same battles as our elders and ancestors. Everett B. Ward, Ph.D. General President Twitter: @AlphasforWARD

It is through this lens that I experienced my earliest attraction to Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. I witnessed Alpha men in my community courageously speak truth to power — without apology — in the public square. Their voices served for the collective benefit of our people. Brothers, the current political landscape demands our unified and organized engagement at the local, state and federal levels. While COVID-19 has dramatically altered our lifestyles, adjusted our social norms, influenced our physical interactions and impacted our economic conditions, we must still stand tall together. As Alpha men, we have confronted the pandemic with Alpha resilience, focused on protecting our families and our communities. Throughout Alphadom, Brothers have utilized their positions to advocate for marginalized citizens, especially those citizens with underlying health issues such as high blood pressure, diabetes and heart disease. From distributing care packets to the homeless, preparing meals and serving frontline and medical professionals, to managing food bank centers, visiting elderly neighbors, and advocating in legislative chambers, Alpha Brothers continue to live our motto, “First of All, Servants of All, We Shall Transcend All.” Regardless of the challenges we continue to face with COVID-19, as well as the human insensitivity, and politically motivated decisions negatively impacting the African American community, we must intensify our political and civic engagement. It is imperative that we elevate our leadership roles in the decision- making process concerning health disparities, the 2020 Census, local and state education management, and the economic disparities within the African American community. The 2020 election cycle requires that we remain focused on voter education and mobilization to the polls. As African American men, we must register and vote like never before to show our collective power and influence. Our power as African American men must be realized at the ballot box, city halls, state legislative chambers and the corridors of the state capitals and in Washington, D.C. Between now and election day on November 3rd and beyond, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., will lead the charge to fight against injustice and discrimination. Men of Alpha never take backward steps. That is why we refuse to be victimized by “old political traditions” that racially divide a nation. The Alpha 7 Point Plan will serve as the fraternity’s clarion call to arms. This Political Issue of the Sphinx magazine will serve as the initial publication focused on political and civic engagement and public policy. I am confident you will gain valuable insight and information from this and future publications. Feel free to utilize critical information, these insightful interviews and this informative public policy material in your ongoing mission to provide Alpha Advocacy in Action. Onward and Upward Always. S

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FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Letter from the Executive Director My Dear Brothers of Alpha, It is an honor and indeed a privilege to serve as the 29th Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Brothers, it is from a place of purpose and humility that I pledge myself as a servantleader to the betterment and upliftment of this Brotherhood. Throughout my career, the collective experience I have gained marshaling organizations and businesses into positions of optimum primacy has led me to this moment in Alpha’s present to accelerate Alpha into the future. With high expectations, my mission is to progress Joe Paul Executive Director & COO joepaul@apa1906.net

this House into an exceptional era of civic engagement, academic excellence, advocacy and brotherly companionship, with no backward steps. This is a path into destiny that we must traverse together, for no Brother is too heavy upon the strength of our collective shoulders. I believe we have a duty, as Brothers of the Fraternity, to sustain what our forwardthinking Jewels built. The Seven Jewels were the architects of this House, and every Brother who enters, holds a brick, as well as the capacity to either build up or tear down. It is our responsibility to attract Brothers, staff, and volunteers, who can help build and sustain our beloved Fraternity. As Alpha men, we have been embedded with a responsibility to rise in the face of depravity and tribulation. We cannot stand idly by while the threat of regression attempts to seep its way into our society in this new decade. The current social and political atmosphere of our country demands that we invoke the resolute nature that was bestowed on us all by our Jewels in 1906. This election year alone has presented many challenges for us to endure, but Alpha men have never been strangers to diligence. As the nation’s now impeached President persists in his dogmatic rhetoric and oppressive temperament amid this global crisis, I know history will bear witness to the uncompromising resolve this Fraternity upheld in the fight against racism, voter suppression, discrimination, economic inequality and heath disparities. Together, we will be the change we seek in our society. As your Executive Director, it is my mission to elevate the Fraternity I love to its peak potential guided by the stimulating words of Jewel Henry Arthur Callis, “Our tasks are endless.” I believe Alpha’s best days are ahead of us and I look forward to maximizing the use of our resources to secure our place in history for the next 114 years. S

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FROM THE INTERIM EDITOR

Letter from the Interim Editor-In-Chief Dear Brothers, Since our founding in 1906, birthed from the echoes of the Niagara Movement and the establishment of the National Association of Colored People, the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., has played an integral role in the formation and advocacy of political ideologies, political and social movements, and in seizing the mantle of political leadership in uncertain times. Therefore, it is especially apt, that General President Everett B. Ward, Ph.D. had Eric Christopher Webb, DDiv., CPLC Interim Editor-In-Chief ewebb@apa1906.net

the brainchild to publish this Special Issue dedicated to political thought and representative government. At this time, the country, and especially our community, is desperate for knowledgeable and trusted leadership amid a continuing global pandemic, which has exacerbated joblessness, economic strife, and the vulnerability of the African American community. Within these pages, the Fraternity has assembled and compiled a collection of various Alpha voices, not indebted to any political party, but rather indebted to scholarly expression and to advance the causes of the communities, in which we so humbly serve. Aside from a selection of our traditional departments, this edition is divided into special sections, including: TO BE COUNTED & HEARD, HISTORY, SERVANT LEADERS, and IDEOLOGY & ACTION. Among the articles contained explore the importance of voting and participation in the 2020 U.S. Census; highlight a sampling of Alpha Brothers who currently hold or are seeking political office; provide context for the Fraternity’s historic Education for Citizenship Program and our involvement in political action; announce the Fraternity’s newest social justice initiative; revisit a case of the legendary Brothers Charles Hamilton Houston and Thurgood Marshall; as well as offer a plea for equity, democracy, and social justice from the leader of the Poor People’s Campaign, Brother Rev. William Barber, and more. In addition, Brother Vic Carter offers a special profile on 100-year-old, Brother Brigadier General Charles Edward McGee, one of the last living Tuskegee airmen, who flew a three-war total of 409 combat missions in WWII, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War, one of the highest combat totals and longest active-duty careers by any Air Force fighter pilot in history. Finally, the Sphinx also specifically highlights, in CHAPTER NEWS, our chapters’ efforts in their demonstration of Alpha Advocacy in Action, as well as bids farewell to our dear, Brothers, who have transitioned to Omega Chapter. S

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TO BE COUNTED & HEARD

BY BROTHER CONGRESSMAN STEVEN HORSFORD

2020 U.S. CENSUS: HELP US BE COUNTED!

y Dear Brothers of Alpha, my name is Brother Steven Horsford and I serve in the House of Representatives representing Nevada’s 4th Congressional District. I am asking for your help. In addition to the ways that our fraternity has cultivated leaders, organizers, and advocates, we must now turn to the communities around and ensure that our family, friends, and neighbors do not go uncounted in the 2020 Census. We have an opportunity to leave our mark on history. Since 1790, our Constitution has called for the counting of every person in our country. However, more than 200 years later, we are still unable to have a complete count in the Census, and the Black community is among those that are the most historically underrepresented. This year, I am working to ensure that every community is properly counted to receive the funding and representation they are owed as the Chairman of the Congressional Black Caucus’s 2020 Census Taskforce. Last year, that taskforce succeeded in securing approximately $5 billion in additional funding for

the Census. Now, I’m working to ensure those funds are being properly allocated and that the bureau is prepared for the count beginning next month and to address the needs of historically undercounted communities. Undercounting Black Americans in the Census is a legacy dating back to the first count. And to this day, Black Americans are still undercounted in the census in current times. According to the Decennial Statistics Studies Division of the Department of Commerce, in 1990, the agency estimated “a net undercount of about 4 percent for African Americans.” This number was lowered to two percent—around 800,000 people—in the 2000 and 2010 Census. In 2020, projections by the Urban Institute indicate that 1.7 million Black residents may be uncounted. That’s hundreds of millions of dollars and possible representation in our government that would be DENIED to the Black community. This Administration has taken coordinated action to discourage and frighten people away from participating

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in the 2020 census, and now we are fighting back. The Trump Administration thinks it can dissuade the Black community and other minority communities from participating in the census, denying our constituents access to representation in Congress and federal aid programs. I will NOT let that happen. I am working to push back against the Trump administration’s threat to the value of the census and its importance to upholding our democracy. Data gathered by the census is used to determine how many congressional seats and electoral college votes each state receives, as well as the drawing of federal, state, and local government legislative boundaries. Furthermore, this data is also used to direct over $800 billion annually in federal dollars to states and local communities that impact health care services, housing, schools, businesses, and economic development plans among other priorities. By standing up and being counted in the 2020 Census, Brother Horsford it ensures that our state has access to the funding it needs for our police and fire departments, our schools, our health care clinics, and Medicaid programs, and many other vital programs. YOU can make a difference in our community this year and respond to the 2020 Census, whether online, by

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mail or by phone. Mail invitations to participate in the Census will be received in March—but, for the first time, people will be able to respond to the Census online in addition to by phone and by mail. If a response is not receive from the first invitation, it will be followed by a reminder postcard,and possibly an in- in-person Census taker visit. Data collected by the U.S. Census Bureau can only be used for statistical data, which helps our government make important decisions about federal funding and representation. By law, the U.S. Census Bureau CANNOT release any information that identifies you. I am proud to be a Brother of Alpha Phi Alpha. I am proud of the work our Brotherhood does in the community. I am proud of the great men that our fraternity inspires us to become. But with the 2020 Census count, you don’t need to be a Member of Congress, a councilmember, a scientist, or a doctor to shape the future of your community. You just need to be someone who cares. Brother Rev. Dr. King declared that “anyone can be great, because anyone can serve.” Brothers, this is a way that we all can serve. This is your chance to not only shape YOUR future, but the future of our fraternity, and the future of our country. I hope you will join me in participating in the 2020 Census. S

TO BE COUNTED & HEARD

BROTHER BRYAN L. EVANS

The African American Electorate and Partisan Loyalty: A Path Forward

ince the Reconstruction era, disenfranchised African American citizenry’s foray into partisan politics has been complicated, at best.

Initially, they aligned themselves with the Party of Abraham Lincoln, as its most recognizable forebearer since it is often credited with the abolition of slavery. However, this alliance proved to be unstable at best and willfully fraudulent at worst, when the Republican Party struck a deal with southern Democrats in 1877 to accept Republican Rutherford B. Hayes’ contested presidential election in exchange for ending Reconstruction, and thereby withdrawing federal troops from the American south (Roger D. Bridges). The presence of the U.S. military protected the franchise of African Americans, preserved their 14th amendment equal protection rights and shielded them from the violent wrath of those who propagated and profited from slavery just 12 years prior to the President Hayes’ inauguration.

Arguably, Hayes was not unaware of the devastating impact this policy would have on Black people in the south. Troop withdrawals had already occurred in states like Mississippi and Alabama and the scourge of disenfranchisement and racial violence was already spreading. What ensued, following the final withdrawal of federal troops from the south, can be described as nothing less than racial terrorism, which would relentlessly and violently haunt African Americans for the next 100 years. Despite the Republican Party’s betrayal of its most vulnerable constituency, African Americans largely remained loyal. After all, the alternate would be to support a Democratic Party whose leadership, as well as rank, and file included members of the Ku Klux Klan. The Democrats maintained their southern stronghold throughout much of the 20th century because of its fierce opposition to integration and civil

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rights and because of southerners’ general view that the Democratic Party was the preserver of white supremacy and what was left of the bygone Antebellum era. This stronghold of support remained impenetrable until President Harry Truman of Missouri introduced a party platform that was supportive of civil rights in 1948. But the death knell of the Democratic Party’s southern fortress tolled when the Democratic President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the subsequent Voting Rights Act of 1965 (Little, 2017). Reportedly, after signing the legislation, President Johnson remarked to his aide, “I think we just delivered the south to the Republican Party for a long time to come.” Though the transition was gradual, it began immediately and consistently. Republican Presidential candidate Richard B. Nixon infamously employed the explicitly racist southern strategy, which spoke to the racial fears of the southern white electorate. The remaining vestiges of southern Democratic support dissipated with Ronald Regan’s presidential campaign that was rife with racial overtones, including his “tough on crime” agenda and his exploitation of the “welfare queen” narrative. Meanwhile, African Americans, having celebrated the passage of two key pieces of civil rights legislation, rewarded the Democratic Party by becoming the Democrats key voting constituency. That unwavering support has remained largely steadfast with the Democratic Party until today. According to the African American Research Collaborative, the Democratic Party’s sweeping 2018 midterm victories were largely fueled by the African American electorate with 90% of Black voters supporting Democratic House candidates, compared to 53% of the total electorate and just 45% of white voters (Ray Block, 2018). Almost monolithically, African Americans threw the weight of their electoral strength to the Republican Party during the Reconstruction era, only to be betrayed by the Republican Party just 12 short years after slavery was abolished. Today, the Republican Party has doubled down on its southern strategy by endorsing and authoring legislation whose sole intent is to suppress the African American vote. According to the National Council of SPRING 2020

State Legislatures, of the 19 states that require photo identification to vote, 11 are southern states (Underhill, 2020). (Of note, 16 of the 19 states with photo identification requirements were states won by Donald Trump in the 2016 presidential race. Six of those states were won by President Barack Obama, just four years prior.) White nationalists and Neo-Nazis have found safe harbor within its ranks. Then, again, African Americans threw the weight of their electoral strength to the Democratic Party after the passage of the Civil Rights Act in 1964. Despite this overwhelming support, even as recently as 2019, the Democratic Party has been credibly accused of exploiting black support, while silencing black candidates. Prominent voices of color such as former Presidential candidate Julian Castro has lamented that granting states like Iowa and New Hampshire first caucus and primary status, gives states with an overwhelmingly white population, disproportionate weight in choosing the party’s presidential nominee. The burning question in 2020 that must be asked and definitively answered is: what tangible benefit has the black community garnered in exchange for its ironclad loyalty to either party? Is the measurable benefit enough to justify continued unwavering support for either party or any candidate, for that matter? Perhaps the time has come to no longer seek a party or a candidate to fall in love with, but to fall in love with an agenda. In this vein of thought, politicians simply become conduits through which a greater aim is achieved. A man who builds a house does not become affectionately attached to the hammer he uses to build it. He is in love with his ultimate purpose and the hammer is simply a tool to achieve that end. The African American electorate must reshape its voting strategy to be explicitly intentional about candidates earning its most powerful possession -the vote. A transactional approach that trades electoral support for a candidate’s endorsement of a welldefined, actionable agenda, shifts the conceptual framework of voter strategy from the desire to connect with a candidate and be inspired by political speech, to meaningful steps toward policy, action and results. What tangible, actionable items should the black vote be leveraged for? 9

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VOTING RIGHTS: In 2013, The Unites States Supreme Court struck down a key section of the Voting Rights Act that required states with a history racialized voter suppression to submit to a federal review of any suffrage related legislation. Since the Supreme Court decision, laws and rule changes have resulted in the disenfranchisement of African Americans. The reinstatement of the full weight of Voting Rights Act is key to the future of the African American electorate. HOUSING: The issue of homeownership, affordable rents, housing, and homelessness in the urban core has become front and center in many cities across the United States as gentrification has reshaped neighborhoods that have been inhabited by African Americans for decades. As the wealth of many Americans is tied into the value and equity of their homes, directing policy towards equity and affordability could be an impactful initial step towards building wealth for African American families. CRIMINAL JUSTICE REFORM: Progress in correcting the harm that “tough on crime” policies inflicted upon African Americans have been slow-moving. Federal support and policy for alternatives to the cash bail system, the elimination the private prison industry and initiatives to rehabilitate and employ non-violent offenders without the use of the prison system will reduce recidivism, keep families together and help to break the cycle of joblessness and poverty. EDUCATION: Federal action against states that employ unequal funding formulas that disproportionately impact black schools and HBCUs will finally begin to correct the issue of inequity in education and ensure that black students have equal access to curriculum, opportunities and ultimately equal access to the American economy.

ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT: A foundational component of equality in American society is economic opportunity and empowerment that goes beyond job-training and empowerment zones to access to capital and representative ownership across sectors from agriculture and manufacturing to banking. By no means is this an exhaustive agenda. The barriers to equality for African Americans in The United States cannot be fully examined in a condensed space. Certainly, it is a place to begin a conversation concerning a set of policies, around which the black electorate could coalesce. The value of engagement cannot be understated, and the stakes could not be higher for vulnerable communities and communities of color. Blind allegiance to either party has not yielded social and economic equality. However, nonparticipation is a dangerous sport. Nonparticipation as an electorate strategy ushered in a White House occupant in the 2016 election cycle, who referred to neo-Nazi white supremacists as very fine people. The power of the black vote was evidenced in the 2018 midterm election and is on full display again in 2020. The power of that vote should be strategically harnessed to deliver a transformative agenda that will finally allow African Americans to fully enjoy the elusive freedoms and promise of America that slaves, freedmen and Civil Rights workers so desperately fought for, but never attained. The 2020 presidential election season is a remarkable opportunity for African American voters to pursue a new path forward. S

Works Cited 1. Little, B. (2017, August 18). How the ‘Party of Lincoln’ Won Over the Once Democratic South. History Channel. Retrieved February 21 , 2021, from https://www.history.com/news/how-the-party-of-lincoln-won-over-the-once-democratic-south 2. Ray Block, J. R. (2018). 2018 NAACP Mid-Term Election Survey. African American Research Collaborative. Retrieved from africanamericanresearch.us 3. Roger D. Bridges. (n.d.). Betrayal of the Freedman: Rutherford B. Hayes and the End of Reconstruction. Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Library and Museum. Retrieved from https://www.rbhayes.org/hayes/betrayal-of-the-freedman-rutherford-b.hayes-and-the-end-of-reconstruction/ 4. Underhill, W. (2020). Voter Identification Requirements | Voter ID Laws. National Conference of Satet Legislatures. Retrieved February 21, 2020, from https://www.ncsl.org/research/elections-and-campaigns/voter-id.aspx#Laws%20in%20Effect 10

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BY BROTHER AUSTIN COOPER

VOTE LIKE YOUR LIFE DEPENDS ON IT, BECAUSE IT DOES “We’re gonna slit that nigger preacher’s throat!”

his threat was directed at my father, the late Brother Austin R. Cooper, Sr. He was initiated into the Gamma Psi Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., at St. Augustine’s University in 1956. I was initiated into the same chapter in 1980. My uncle, the late Clement T. Cooper, pledged the Nu Chapter at Lincoln University in 1952.

Throughout his life, Brother Cooper, my father, was a proponent of the importance of voting and protecting the civil rights of our race. While a teenager growing up in segregated Coconut Grove, Florida, he participated in protests at segregated pools. As the rector of a parish in Dallas, Texas, in the early 1960s, he was fired by the bishop of the diocese for registering parishioners to vote and leading literacy classes. Brother Cooper was also a founder of the Union of Black Episcopalians (UBE) in order to combat rampant racism in the Episcopal Church. While serving as the Rector of Saint Andrew’s Episcopal Church in Cleveland, Ohio, he was elected President of the Cleveland Branch of the NAACP. During his tenure, he led the organization through the controversial period of court-mandated busing to desegregate public schools. Death threats over the phone and in the mail were frequent. I vividly remember as a teenager answering the phone and hearing death threats, as previously referenced, against not only Brother Cooper’s life, but that of my family. I recall getting the mail and immediately learning how to identify envelopes containing death threats. They were easy to identify because the anonymous authors displayed their ignorance and illiteracy with misspelled words on the envelope, as well as in the always profanity-laced letters. In July 1978, my father was sitting in the living room when the Ku Klux Klan fired shots into our home. Luckily, he was not injured or killed. Thankfully, nor was my mother, sisters, or I injured. The assassination attempt on Brother Cooper that night did not make him shrink from his commitment and dedication to civil rights. Rather, it made him stronger. He fought discrimination and encouraged African Americans to always vote in each and every election. Until his death in February 2001, he instilled the same conviction to voting in my mother, sisters, and myself. We continue to exercise this constitutional responsibility.

Brother Austin R. Cooper, Sr.

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The right to vote is at the very core of a democracy. Yet, perhaps more importantly, is to exercise that right. 11

TO BE COUNTED & HEARD

Indeed, exercising that right, for African Americans, remains one of the main tenants of the Civil Rights Movement. Nationwide, voting rights are under attack as states pass voter suppression laws. These laws lead to significant burdens for eligible voters trying to exercise their most basic constitutional rights. For example, since 2008, states across the country have passed measures to make it harder for African Americans to exercise their fundamental right to cast a ballot. These measures include cuts to early voting, voter ID laws, and purges of voting rolls. Traditionally, it has been Republicans suppressing votes. Last December, a re-election advisor to President Donald Trump, Justin Clark, was caught on video in Wisconsin admitting that the GOP has “traditionally” relied on voter suppression to compete in battleground states. African Americans, particularly women, are the most loyal base of the Democratic Party. Consider the recent contests on Super Tuesday, March 3rd. African American voters across eight states captured in exit polls for former Vice President Joe Biden once again provided decisive he wins. Indeed, he won doubledigit victories in ten of the fourteen contested states. Without our vote and the endorsement of House Majority Whip Congressman Jim Clyburn, prior to South Carolina primary, Biden would no longer be in the race. (Congressman Clyburn is only the second African-

American to serve in this capacity. The late Brother William H. Gray, III of Pennsylvania was the first.) In 2016, then-candidate Trump posed the question to African Americans, “What do you have to lose?” That demeaning question is challenged by the fact that we have everything to lose. Remember, he is the president who the Ku Klux Klan endorsed; saw “good people on both sides” in Charlottesville; is not committed to strengthening voting rights, but instead weakening them; believes he is above the law; appoints ultra-rightwing conservatives to the Supreme Court; and lacks or failed to demonstrate knowledge, compassion, or humanity in any aspect of his presidency. Our great Fraternity will be at the forefront of efforts to not only register citizens, but also getting people to the polls on Nov. 3. Voting is an integral part of our legacy, and it upholds the ideals and life work of Brothers Cooper, Gray, Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., U.S. Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall, and countless others. Vote like your life depends on it, because it does! S

Brother Austin R. Cooper, Jr., is a member of the Mu Lambda Chapter. He is the President of Cooper Strategic Affairs, Inc., where he provides government relations and communications counsel to clients. He also writes a bimonthly political column for the Washington Informer.

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HISTORY

BY BROTHER DR. ROBERT L. HARRIS JR., NATIONAL HISTORIAN

THE EDUCATION FOR CITIZENSHIP CAMPAIGN

o this very day, African Americans have had to wage a sustained struggle to secure and to maintain the right to vote. As enslaved and quasifree inhabitants of the United States, African Americans were not recognized as citizens of this country. It was only with ratification of the Fourteenth Amendment in 1868 after the Civil War that African Americans gained recognition as United States citizens. And it took ratification of the Fifteenth Amendment in 1870 for Black men to gain the right to vote as well as ratification of the Nineteenth Amendment a hundred years ago in 1920 to secure the right to vote for women. In 1933, Brother Dr. Rayford W. Logan, future General President (1941-1945) became Director of Education for the Fraternity. He developed the “Education for Citizenship” program out of which grew the slogan, “A Voteless People Is a Hopeless People.” Brother Karl Downs, a member of Beta Zeta Chapter in Elizabeth City, North Carolina, recommended the slogan to the Education Foundation. The Education for Citizenship campaign was designed to inform and to familiarize African Americans with their rights as citizens of the United States and to educate them about practicing their rights. The program sought to train Black youth as citizens of tomorrow and to keep Black adults informed about their citizenship responsibilities.1 Dr. Logan developed the Education for Citizenship program at Atlanta University where Brother Dr. John Hope had offered him a position as head of the History Department for fall, 1933. He worked with Lugenia Burns Hope, wife of Brother Dr. John Hope, to develop a School of Citizenship supported by the Atlanta NAACP branch to train African Americans in the effective use of the ballot. Brother Logan sought to challenge the disfranchisement of African Americans by preparing them to vote. Six-week sessions were held at the Butler Street YMCA with an initial session of 150 students and subsequent sessions of close to 300 participants. Students participated in mock voter registration and were taught to stand their ground when challenged by instructors acting as voting registrars. Individuals, who completed the program, mostly domestic servants, received certificates. Brother Logan later reflected that this was one of the most gratifying moments of his career. He sought to expand the Fraternity’s work beyond the more privileged sectors of the African American community.2 SPRING 2020

Alpha chapters throughout the South established programs similar to what Brother Logan had started in Atlanta. The 1934 NAACP National Convention endorsed Citizenship schools. Walter White, NAACP executive director, sought to cooperate with and to learn from Alpha Phi Alpha about voting rights programs. Five years into the program, Brother Logan announced that based on reports about voting rights projects by the chapters that Alpha had reached over one hundred thousand African Americans. Most of the Fraternity chapters worked in conjunction with local ministers, NAACP branches, and the Urban League.3 The Fraternity used auto bumper stickers, door placards, and yard signs to encourage African Americans to register to vote. They organized essay contests and forums to discuss the importance of the vote. Chapters sent speakers into schools and churches to discuss the ballot. Twenty-Sixth General President, Brother Ozell Sutton (1981-1984) remarked that Alpha Phi Alpha made African Americans conscious of the power of the ballot. It was not just a matter of casting a ballot but for what purpose. Through “Education for Citizenship” and “A Voteless People Is a Hopeless People” campaigns, chapters emphasized civic engagement for knowledge of the U.S. political system, how it functions, and the role of citizens in maintaining freedom, justice, and equality in principle and practice. Twenty-Second General President Brother Dr. Lionel H. Newsom (1965-1968), who served as Director of Educational Activities in 1959, observed that: “the vote is still America’s greatest equalizer.”4 13

HISTORY

To curtail the right to vote and to limit Black political participation, southern states, then and now, have used various devices of which intimidation and violence were last resorts. The “Grandfather Clause” stipulated that white men could vote if their forefathers had voted prior to 1867. It was a means to keep poor whites, who could not pass literacy tests on the voter rolls. One of the NAACP’s first Supreme Court victories was Guinn v. U.S. in 1915, which overturned the “Grandfather Clause.” Another means to disenfranchise African American voters was the “White Primary,” which limited voting in the Democratic Party primary in southern states to white citizens. Given that victory in the Democratic Party primary prior to the 1960’s was tantamount to election, exclusion from the primary was a means to nullify the Black vote. In Smith v. Allwright, 1944, a case argued on behalf of the NAACP by Brother Thurgood Marshall, the Supreme Court invalidated the “White Primary.”5 It still required massive protest throughout the South, culminating in the Selma to Montgomery march, 1965, which persuaded Congress to pass the Voting Rights Act of 1965. The Voting Rights Act banned literacy tests and the 24th Amendment in 1966 barred use of poll taxes. The Voting Rights Act provided for federal supervision of voter registration in areas where fifty percent of the non-white population was

not registered to vote. In 1965, while about seventy percent of whites in the South were registered to vote, only about twenty-five percent of African Americans were registered to vote. In the state of Mississippi, only about seven percent of African Americans were registered to vote.6 These gains in the right to vote have consistently been under assault. In 2013, the U.S. Supreme Court in Shelby County v. Holder, ended the preclearance provision of the Voting Rights Act that required federal approval before making changes in election laws. Opponents of Black voter participation have come up with more subtle ways to suppress the African American vote such as voter I.D. laws, which are almost another form of poll tax given that the burden usually falls on the elderly and poor African Americans to take the time and expense to secure a “valid” I.D. Disinformation about felony disfranchisement for individuals who have served their time is another means of suppressing the Black vote. In some states, individuals are purged from the voter rolls if they have not voted within a certain period. States also redraw voting districts to dilute the Black vote and provide less equipment in Black voting precincts usually resulting in long lines.7 Brother Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. reminded us that: “change does not roll in on the wheels of inevitability, but comes through continuous sruggle.”8 S

References 1. Charles H. Wesley. The History of Alpha Phi Alpha: A Development in College Life. Baltimore, Md.: The Foundation Publishers, 2012, p. 210-212. “Citizenship Campaign in Seventh Year.” The Sphinx Magazine. (May, 1940), p. 3. 2. Jacqueline Anne Rouse. Lugenia Burns Hope, Black Southern Reformer. 3. Athens: University of Georgia Press, 1989, and Kenneth Robert Janken, Rayford W. Logan and the Dilemma of the African American Intellectual. Amherst: U. of Massachusetts, Press, 1993, pp. 89 & 102-105. 4. Ibid., p. 105. 5. The Sphinx Magazine (Dec., 1959), p. 8. 6. Patricia Sullivan. Lift Every Voice: The NAACP and the Making of the Civil Rights Movement. New York: The New Press, 2009. 7. https://images.search.yahoo.comyhs/search:_yt 8. “What is Voter Suppression?” https://www.demandthevote.com 9. Martin Luther King, Jr. Quotes. BrainyQuote.com, BrainyMedia Inc, 2020. https://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/martin_ luther_king_jr_121065, accessed March 9, 2020. 14

THE SPHINX

HISTORY

BY BROTHER RAWN JAMES, JR.

DECADES BEFORE BROWN: CHARLES HAMILTON HOUSTON, THURGOOD MARSHALL AND MURRAY V. THE UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND

rother Thurgood Marshall had grown anxious at wind of a rumor. For about a year now, the fraternity to which Brothers Marshall and Charles Hamilton Houston belonged had been strategizing on a lawsuit to integrate the University of Maryland. Led by its Assistant General Brother Counsel Belford V. Lawson, Jr, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. had received help from the NAACPâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Washington chapter

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in conducting research and searching for a suitable plaintiff. Maryland state law did not require its flagship university to be segregated. The university excluded African Americans as a matter of policy. That the case was winnable accentuated the imperative that it be won. Nine black applicants had been rejected between 1933 and 1934, nine potential plaintiffs from whom Lawson

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soon would have his client. Swarmed with work at Howard Law School and for the NAACP, however, Brother Houston had not responded to Brother Marshall’s entreaties about filing a case against the university. By the opening months of 1934, Brother Marshall’s tone had become stressed: “Dear Charlie, Trust you had a good Christmas, etc. I hate to worry you so much about this University of Maryland case. When are we to get together on it? Things are very slow just now and I would like very much to get started as soon as possible.” A few months later, Alpha Phi Alpha allocated sufficient money to try the case. As Lawson began to wind down his preparations, Brother Marshall implored Brother Houston: “What about the University of Maryland case? (Brother) B.V. Lawson has been writing me and seems to think that the fraternity is going to try the case along with the local branches of the NAACP. I am up a tree as to just what is going to be done.” As if sensing his fraternity brother’s anxiety, Brother Lawson invited Brother Marshall toa strategy planning session in Washington. By telegram Brother Marshall consulted Brother Houston, who was in Augusta, Georgia on an NAACP mission.

Marshall’s resolute belief in both the cause and their superior ability to affect its victory. Nearly every biographical account of Brother Thurgood Marshall’s life describes him as lead counsel for the plaintiff in Murray v. Maryland. This nearly unanimous misrepresentation ignores Marshall’s own account. “I worked the case out on the ground and I drew the pleadings since there was some intricate old Maryland common law involved, but outside the legwork I did very little. The court presentation was [Houston’s] doing. The fact is, I never was chief counsel in a case that Charlie took part in.” The Chicago Defender concluded its trial report with this note: “Assisting Attorney Houston in the Maryland University case was Attorney Thurgood Marshall of Baltimore.” These accounts buttress the recollections of others who practiced law with Houston, who was not a lawyer given to second chair. When time came for appeal, Brother Houston instructed Brother Marshall to “be sure to look up biographical data on all the judges of the Court of Appeals with special reference to the places and schools where they took their education. I am anxious to know how many attended unsegregated schools.” Such was his attention to detail.

“ATTEND LAWSON’S MEETING,” Brother Houston replied by wire. “GET FACTS BUT BE CAREFUL ABOUT COMMITMENTS.” Brother Marshall would be more than careful; he disregarded Brother Houston’s advice and respectfully declined to attend the meeting. A week after his Washington strategy meeting, Lawson identified his plaintiff. Donald Gaines Murray was an eminently qualified recent graduate of Amherst College and the scion of a widely respected Baltimore family who wanted to attend the University of Maryland School of Law. Brother Lawson agreed to represent him and would proceed without the NAACP.

Having signed with counsel, Murray applied to law school at the University of Maryland. The registrar promptly returned his application and accompanying fee. “President Pearson instructed me today to return to you the application form and the money order, as the University does not accept Negro students, except at the Princess Anne Academy.” Princess Anne Academy, on Maryland’s rural Eastern Shore, was more high school than university, and it had no law school. The State of Maryland, therefore, offered no legal education to its African American citizens.

Or so he thought. With an impeccable plaintiff now identified, Houston told Marshall that the NAACP would try the case. Brother Lawson’s efforts were laudable but, even supported by the nation’s oldest black fraternity, he was outmatched in resources. Murray signed to be the NAACP’s client and Brother Lawson angrily became one of the first activists to learn of Houston’s and 16

On April 20, The Washington Post reported, “Donald G. Murray, Negro graduate of Amherst college, filed mandamus proceedings [in Baltimore] today in an effort to compel the University of Maryland Law School to admit him as a student.” The complaint filed by Murray’s “Negro attorneys” asserted that “alleged refusal of the institution to THE SPHINX

HISTORY

accept Murray as a student was not supported by the law or the constitution of Maryland and it violated the fourteenth amendment to the United States Constitution.” The lawyers filed suit against university President Raymond A. Pearson, but the case would become famous as Murray v. Maryland. Judge Eugene O’Dunne’s Baltimore courtroom was nearly empty on this June morning. Brother Marshall’s parents, Willie and Norma, arrived proud and early to watch their son’s first civil rights trial. But they nearly had the gallery to themselves. “Negroes did not take more interest in the case,” Marshall recalled, “because they felt it was hopeless.” Brother Houston rose to deliver the plaintiff’s opening statement. His deep voice resounded against the wooden chamber’s walls. Plaintiff Donald Murray had applied to the University of Maryland School of Law with an academic record far exceeding the school’s admission requirements. And the school had rejected him for the sole reason that it did not accept Negro applicants. The University of Maryland thereby violated the rights guaranteed to Murray by the Fourteenth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. Neither state law nor the university’s charter enjoined Murray’s enrollment. Only the “race prejudice” of the school’s administration stood between Donald Murray and a legal education. Maryland assistant attorney general Charles T. LeViness III rose to offer the defense’s opening statement. Before LeViness could speak, however, Judge O’Dunne had a question: Was the plaintiff’s race the university’s acknowledged reason for rejecting his application? Yes, your honor; it was a matter of public policy. What did this public policy have to do with the state of the law? Well, the State of Maryland presented its colored citizens with a sophisticated array of educational options, including a junior college and over two-dozen $200 scholarships for colored students to attend colleges outside the state. Suppose, the judge wondered, a Negro student didn’t want to leave the state to pursue his studies? LeViness bristled. Your Honor, one must be practical about these sorts of things. The State could not be expected to build a new separate graduate school every time a young Negro got the notion to become a professional. SPRING 2020

Was the State willing to stipulate for the record that, but for his race, the plaintiff was qualified to be admitted to the law school? Yes, your honor. Brothers Houston and Marshall managed to mask their elation. Although his academic record should have placed it beyond dispute that Murray was qualified for admission to the law school, they had been prepared to spend hours litigating that very point. Murray’s qualifying for admission was a question of fact and if the court found that he was not qualified, then his case would be moot. That the state’s counsel conceded the point in the trial’s opening minutes was a welcome surprise. Judge O’Dunne allowed the state to present its opening argument before instructing the plaintiff to call his first witness. Houston called his client, Donald Gaines Murray. The plaintiff stood about average height, shorter than both Brothers Houston and Marshall, and wore a tapered mustache similar to Brother Marshall’s. That he leaned back comfortably in the witness’s chair was as much a testament to his self-assuredness as it was to his having been well-prepared by his attorneys. How long had Mr. Murray lived in the State of Maryland? All his life. Murray answered his lawyer’s questions to describe his desire to become a lawyer, his academic record, and his attempts to gain admission to the University of Maryland Law School. Next Brother Houston called university president Raymond A. Pearson as a hostile witness, which meant that Brother Houston could “lead the witness” by asking him yes or no questions. The plaintiff Mr. Murray had applied through the proper channels and submitted all necessary paperwork for admission to the law school, hadn’t he? Yes, he had. And, just to confirm, had he been a white applicant, Mr. Murray would have been admitted? In all likelihood, yes, but because Negroes were not eligible for admission to the University of Maryland. The State provided them with scholarships to out of state institutions. These scholarships were not available when Mr. Murray applied to the law school, were they? No. In fact, the State created them only after Murray’s application was rejected, correct? Yes. 17

HISTORY

And in fact the funds allocated for the scholarships had already proven insufficient to meet the demands of Maryland’s colored citizens? Yes, but this was why the State offered higher education to Negroes at the Princess Anne Academy. Did the two-year course at Princess Anne Academy for Negroes offer the same caliber of education as, say, just the first two years at the University of Maryland? Yes, of course, and even the faculty members were comparable “in some instances.” But wasn’t it true that the faculty at Princess Anne had only one instructor with a master’s degree and did not have even one professor with a doctorate degree? Well, yes. Was Dr. Pearson aware that the biology and chemistry lab at Princess Anne consisted entirely of one table, a few test tubes and a glass butterfly case? Yes, he was. Were these facilities adequate? Of course they were. They were? Yes. Then why did the University of Maryland’s science labs offer so much more sophisticated equipment to its students? Because the University offered more advanced classes than did Princess Anne’s. With that admitted Brother Houston switched tacks and asked if Mexicans, Japanese, Filipinos and Indians were eligible for admission to the University’s law school. Yes, they were. Then why were members of the plaintiff’s race not admitted to the university? President Pearson glared at his questioner. Negroes were not admitted because—he personally had no objection to their attending the university. It was not a matter of his imposing any sort of race prejudice on the school. It was a matter of state policy, you understand, beyond his control. It was beyond his control even though he was president of the university and there was not a single law, rule or regulation requiring the exclusion of Negro applicants? 18

Yes. But this is why the State created the scholarships for them to attend out of state institutions. The scholarships that were not created until after Mr. Murray’s application had been rejected. Yes, those scholarships. Brother Houston dismissed the witness after a withering hour and a half examination. Next he called his colleague to the stand—Roger Howell, dean of the University of Maryland’s law school. Brother Houston squeezed from his fellow law school dean a series of valuable concessions. Yes, the University of Maryland’s curriculum focused on Maryland state law, which made it unique among the nation’s law schools. Of the school’s eighteen faculty members, twelve were judges or otherwise prominent Maryland attorneys. The school’s preeminence among members of the Maryland bar could scarcely be challenged. Satisfied that his testimony elucidated the inequality between receiving a paltry scholarship to an out of state institution and studying law at the University of Maryland, Houston dismissed Dean Howell. He called several more witnesses, all state officials, who described in detail the inequalities in the education Maryland provided to its Black and white citizens. With the latitude granted by Judge O’Dunne, Brother Houston elicited testimony regarding race-based differences in teachers’ salaries, gross inequalities in the size and condition of the actual school buildings, and the fact that the school year for Maryland’s Black students was one month shorter than that for white students, a fact that Houston’s young co-counsel knew first-hand. With no small amount of satisfaction did Brother Thurgood Marshall work at counsel’s table in Murray. He had attended Maryland’s abysmal schools for black children and for years was dismissed from the classroom a month earlier than his white friends. As an adult, his family had dissuaded him from applying to the University of Maryland’s law school because it did not consider black applicants. Brother Marshall watched the state’s highest ranking education officials answer Houston’s questions under oath, answer for their having sent him to a high school that had no cafeteria, no library and no gymnasium, answer for sending him on a train ride to Washington for law school. Brother Houston allowed Brother Marshall to deliver closing arguments. In his Baltimore accent that wasn’t THE SPHINX

HISTORY

quite Southern and wasn’t quite not, Brother Marshall declared that the Supreme Court of the United States had never ruled on a case such as this, where no separate school for blacks existed. He assured Judge O’Dunne that he would not contravene any existing precedent by ruling that the University of Maryland had to admit Murray to its law school, because it provided no other law school for him to attend. Instead, Judge O’Dunne should rule for Murray’s admission, Marshall argued, because Plessy v. Ferguson demanded it. When it established a law school for its white residents, Maryland incurred a constitutional responsibility to provide a separate and equal legal education for its black citizens. By refusing to admit Black applicants to its law school in the absence of a separate and equal state law school for

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them to attend, Maryland violated Plessy’s well-settled constitutional demands. BrotherMarhsall returned to his seat filled with the fight of a man who had finally hit back. Shortly after the Maryland’s assistant attorney general argued his closing, Judge Eugene O’Dunne took the rare step of issuing his ruling from the bench. To the nearly empty courtroom, he announced his decision to issue a writ of mandamus compelling the University of Maryland School of Law to admit Murray to its incoming class. S

Adapted from Root and Branch: Charles Hamilton Houston, Thurgood Marshall and the Struggle to End Segregation (Bloomsbury 2010)

HISTORY

BY BROTHER DONALD ROSS

THE LIGHT OF ALPHA IN AMERICAN POLITICS

rom the earliest days of Alpha Phi Alpha, the American political landscape has been peppered with men who either were members, or soon would become members, when they endeavored to serve as agents of change. The light of the old gold and black burned bright and shined on many with each passing decade. Among the earliest was 1909 National Association for the Advancement of Colored People co-founder, Brother Dr. W.E.B. DuBois. His time in Alpha began in 1912 with Epsilon Chapter, but he was known for his activism on the national landscape and in Alpha. Brother George Edmund Haynes, who along with Ruth Standish Baldwin, in 1910 was a co-founder of the 20

National League on Urban Conditions Among Negroes. He served as its first Executive Director and by 1918 was an honorary initiated of Beta Chapter. The organization would evolve into todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s National Urban League, which no enjoys 110 years of advocacy for more humane treatment in business and life. Upon his death, he was active with Eta Zeta Lambda Chapter. The next decade introduced the nation to what was then known as the Great War. As the United States became a leader in resolving the international conflict, Alpha Phi Alpha was engaged in ensuring that Negro Americans were not just sideline participants, but active leaders. In 1917 Congress approved the establishment of THE SPHINX

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Brother Thurgood Marshall

Brother Lloyd Gaines

an Officers Training Camp at Fort Des Moines in Iowa. Others had been discussed, but only one was approved. Spearheading the fraternal role in recruitment was Beta Chapter initiate, Brother William A. Pollard, who was aiding in the endeavor on behalf of U.S. War Department Secretary Newton D. Baker. In addition to Brother Pollard’s enlistment in April, on May 5, 1917, the soon to be 8th General President, crafted a letter that he sent to Brothers at “Howard, Lincoln, (Virginia) Union, Fisk, Atlanta and other schools” to help secure the desired number of enlistments to justify facilitating the camp. A total of 56 brothers were photographed that year, at the new facility. Among the first forays of Alpha into the national political landscape, according to The Sphinx, was the 1920 selection of 3rd General President, Brother Fred Miller, to serve as one of Mississippi’s delegates to the Republican National Convention for that summer. The www.politicalgraveyard.com lists him also as a delegate in 1932, 1936, 1940, 1948 and 1956. He was an alternate in 1952.

Brother Adam C. Powell, Jr.

Brother William L. Dawson

get educated on voting opportunities and rights, while Brothers increased their awareness of and willingness to seek elected office. In 1938 Brother Charles H. Houston and Brother Sidney R. Redmond, NAACP attorneys, appeared before the U.S. Supreme Court on behalf of Brother Lloyd Gaines. Three years earlier the plaintiff was denied admission to the University of Missouri Law School because of his being a Negro. Citing 14th Amendment rights to equal protection under the law, it was argued the state had an obligation to either integrate the law school or provide equal educational accommodations for Gaines and others of color pursuing such degrees. The victory in this case laid the foundation for the 1950 Sweatt v. Painter decision argued and won by Brother Robert L. Carter and Brother Thurgood Marshall. These two cases, won by Alphamen, were instrumental in American politics, especially considering many politicians are also attorneys.

Many Alphamen were noted for affiliations in the “Party of Lincoln.” 1924 was the year Brother George Epps Cannon, a New Jersey delegate to the Republican National Convention, gave the seconding nomination speech for Calvin Coolidge. Prior to his death, The Sphinx notes how Brother Cannon’s efforts led to Jersey City, New Jersey hiring its first three Negro police officers. They guarded his coffin during his funeral services.

Sandwiched between those court cases was the decade where men of Alpha would take seats in the nation’s capital and never again miss having a member in Congress. On January 3, 1943, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity would see its first Brother be sworn in with the 78th United States Congress. Brother William Levi Dawson, a charter member of Theta Chapter, would become the third African American in the 20th century elected to a House of Representatives seat. In 1945, he would be joined by Brother Adam Clayton Powell, Jr.

In the decade of the 1930s programming within the fraternity and court actions argued by men of Alpha, would lay the foundation for reshaping the nation’s political landscape. In the decade’s second half, the Education Activities Committee developed the “Voteless People is Hopeless People” campaign, which was introduced in 1937 by Alpha Omicron Chapter at Johnson C. Smith University. It would soon become a stand-alone national program. The community began to

Following the Sweatt case at the open of the next decade, issues of race would bring protests to the streets, bloodshed against civil rights seekers and federal interventions on a scale not seen since the Civil War. In 1954, Brother Marshall and Brother Carter successfully argued the Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka case the overruled the “separate but equal” policies in accommodations established in the 1896 Plessy v. Ferguson decision.

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HISTORY

V.P. Hubert Humphrey

Brother Dr. Ozell Sutton

School systems were now forced to integrate students and some systems took over 15 years to comply. It was the decade of the notable Montgomery Bus Boycott that gave rise to minister and Alpha man, Brother Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. His leadership in a non-violent movement, opened doors across the nation, while subjecting him and his followers to unimaginable acts of violence. One example of when the Brown decision and King movement collided was at Central High School in Little Rock, Arkansas in 1957. Brother Dr. Ozell Sutton, 26th General President told the story of how he was one of several decoys who took abuse at the front of the school building, so that nine Negro students could safely be brought into the school through rear and side entrances. There was even military intervention ordered to aid in keeping the peace.

Brother Edward Brook

Brother Samuel Pierce

There would be no respite in the tumultuous 1960s. Brother King would expand his challenges to the once status quo of Jim Crow laws, but now he would do so while working with leadership including the sitting American president. He was among those present July 2, 1964, when Pres. Lyndon Johnson signed into law the Civil Rights Act, which provided an avenue for securing fair employment, housing, and commerce accommodations. In 1965, a leader who was already a fierce advocate for fair treatment for all citizens, Vice President Hubert Humphrey, would become an Honorary Life Member at the General Convention that year. Ever since his days as mayor of Minneapolis, Minnesota, Humphrey included Negroes in his administration and as his advisors. Another Washington addition was Brother Edward Brooke, who in 1967 became the first Negro elected to the U.S. Senate since Reconstruction.

1964 Civil Rights Act Becomes Law.

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When he took office in 1969, Brother James Thurman Henry, Sr. became the first Black mayor of Xenia, Ohio. Over the next decade, mayoral men of Alpha would include: Bro. James Ford in Tallahassee, Fla.; Brother Theodore M. Berry in Cincinnati; Brother James H. McGee in Dayton, Ohio; Brerth. Maynard Jackson in Atlanta; Brother Lionel Wilson in Oakland; 23rd General President Brother Ernest “Dutch” Morial in New Orleans; and Brother Richard Arrington in Birmingham, Ala. Two Brothers received appointments to federal cabinet posts in the 1980s. Brother Samuel Pierce was tapped by U.S. President Ronald Reagan to be Secretary of Housing and Urban Development in 1981. Eight years later, Brother Louis W. Sullivan would become Secretary of Health and Human Services under Pres. George H.W. Bush. A monumental idea that was conceived in the early 1980s, received Congressional approval to become a reality in 1996. Brother George Sealey of Iota Upsilon Lambda Chapter in Silver Spring, Md., proposed a national Civil Rights memorial, to fellow alumni chapter members Alfred Bailey, Oscar Little, Eddie Madison and John Harvey, in 1983. After some procedural hiccups, the idea was approved at that year’s General Convention. Few

could have imagined that it would take 13 years and a White House meeting between Brother Ozell Sutton and U.S. President William Jefferson “Bill” Clinton to get land approved for the project. The originally proposed $2 million project became a $120 million achievement for Alpha Phi Alpha. No private organization in history has ever completed so vast a financial undertaking. The Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial is the only monument in the Washington, D.C. Mall, that is dedicated to neither a war nor a dead president. Our Brother King sits in an area along a diagonal between the memorials to U.S. President Thomas Jefferson, who declared our nation’s independence, and Pres. Abraham Lincoln, who proclaimed our emancipation. The fraternal legacy of leadership and service continues in the halls, capitals and courts that house our members give their best to their communities in municipal, legislative, and legal positions of power. S

Top Right: 1996 Clinton MLK Site Letter Bottom Left: Alpha 1917 Training Camp Letter

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SERVANT LEADERS

BY BROTHER VIC CARTER

CITIZEN REPRESENTATIVE ALPHA MAN MAKES HISTORIC RUN FOR U.S. SENATE

he life of Brother Raphael Warnock is a great story. Born and raised in public housing, Brother Warnock propelled himself from the King’s Home Housing Projects in Savannah, Georgia - to Dr. King’s pulpit in Atlanta. If all goes well, the next chapter in this stellar life will include another milestone. In late January, Pastor Warnock announced he is seeking to become the first African American elected to the United States Senate from the state of Georgia. Anyone who has heard the cadence and timbre of his preaching voice becomes mesmerized and wrapped in a message of promise and hope. The eloquence of his prose punctuates a well-researched, biblically based, poignant message to a people searching for answers

and solace in troubling times. For the past fifteen years, his is a voice that emanates from the pulpit at the Ebenezer Baptist Church, just feet from the tomb of the man who greatly influenced his life, Brother Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Brother Warnock has never been one who shies away from issues that affect his congregation, the greater environs of Auburn Avenue, the City of Atlanta, the State of Georgia, the nation, and the world. Bathed in the notion that the church has a rightful place in bringing about change in communities, Warnock looks to the laws of the land combined with the laws of his Lord as a remedy to the social ills that plague our nation. “My entire life has been about service,” says Brother Warnock. “I’ve been long committed to the work 24

of ministry. And for me as a preacher of the gospel, the authenticity of the gospel that one preaches is determined by the depth of your commitment to the most marginalized number of the human family. And so the basic principle embodied, I think, in Scripture and demonstrated in the life of Martin Luther King Jr., in his pulpit I’m privileged to serve, has led me to always work far beyond the church doors and so over the course of the 15 years I’ve served as pastor of the Ebenezer Baptist Church, we’ve been engaged in the work of fighting for voter rights, expanding access to health care for all. We were very involved locally in advocating for the Affordable Care Act, and for fighting and encouraging Georgia to accept the Medicaid expansion, which, our state sadly did not. We left hundreds of thousands of Georgians in Medicaid debt, mostly the working poor. I have been involved with criminal justice reform. I spent my life really fighting for the dignity of workers, that they may have a living wage and access to benefits and human dignity in the richest country in the world. I know that America is capable of that. The issue is not resources. It’s really priority. And, so it’s time we have somebody in Washington who will fight for all people.” For many, the lines of separation between church and state are as vivid as black and white. While Brother Warnock respects those opinions, he sees no reason for a man of God, and a pastor of a church, to automatically toss themselves out of the realm of politics. Further, he sees a need for a different path to political leadership rather than the traditional route from local office ascending the ladder to The Congress. “I think that we have, over the course of the years, developed a culture of professional politicians who spend their entire lives moving from one office to another,” he says. “That’s one route, but that’s not the only route. There is another great tradition in American history of the citizen representative, which I think speaks to the essence of what it means to be a democracy, and that means that ordinary citizens represent their fellow citizen. Whether they are preachers or teachers or social workers or business people or physicians or engaged in ordinary, everyday life, they bring the perspective of that kind of life work to the conversation in Washington. And I think for anybody that’s paying attention to the gridlock that we witnessed over the decades to the deep dysfunction that does not allow us to move on things that even a THE SPHINX

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majority of Americans agree on, you can clearly see that the class of politicians who are focused only on the next election and not necessarily the next generation, has served as well. So we’ve got plenty of politicians who are focused on politics. And a move in the back rooms of Washington and the board rooms of that exercise enormous influence over our politics. I think we’re in a fight right now for the soul of our country, and the Senate could use a pastor in Washington and could use the voice of a faith leader.” Alpha Phi Alpha, as much as any other entity, has shaped the life of Raphael G. Warnock. If he wins, Brother Warnock will join the elite ranks of 22 Alpha men, who have served in the Congress of the United States. Among them, Brother Senator Edward Brooke, and Brother Senator Roland Burris; Brother Representatives Emmanuel Cleaver, Ron Dellums, Julius Dixon, David Scott, Charles Rangel, and Robert Scott, to name a few. Besides following in the footsteps of Brother Dr. King, Brother Warnock is guided by the friendship and mentorship he has found in Brother Andrew Young, the late Brother Joseph Lowery, and many others. However, no one will find no preeminent influence on his life more significant than that of his father and mother. “I grew up in South Georgia, Savannah, Georgia, 1 of 11 children,” Brother Warnock says. “We didn’t have much money in my family, but we have a lot of love and a lot of faith and a great sense of humor. I grew up in public housing. My father was literally a junkman and a preacher. He spent the week picking up old junk cars that other people have thrown away. And then on Sunday morning, he (took) off those work clothes and put on his church clothes, and he would preach to the poor and working-class people who had been thrown away. He saw the value in them. He inspired me and convinced me that I could be whatever I wanted to be. My mother grew up in Waycross, Georgia, rural South Georgia, in the 1950s. She spent her summers picking tobacco and cotton. But they instilled in us a deep sense of confidence. I took that and became the first college graduate in my immediate family.” Graduating from Morehouse College, he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology, a Master of Divinity degree from Union Theological Seminary in New York. He also holds a Master of Philosophy Degree and a Doctor of Philosophy degree both from Union. Brother Warnock has never been one to run away from challenges. Even as he launches his campaign for Senate, he knows the difficulty of winning a statewide election in the State of Georgia. This Southern preacher is opposing a wealthy businesswoman, Republican SPRING 2020

Senator Kelly Loeffler, who was appointed to fill the unexpired term of Sen. Johnny Isakson, who resigned while battling Parkinson’s disease. He has, however, received a key endorsement from Stacey Abrams, who made a strong showing in the race for Governor of Georgia. He also is being supported by former Atlanta mayor, Ambassador Andrew Young. For Brother Warnock, the tentacles of this race reach farther than the city of Atlanta and the state of Georgia. In running, he hopes to send a clarion call to other people of color, that as a people, we have to become even more engaged in the political process, especially now. He speaks directly to Alpha men about the summon to serve. “I think we need more Alpha men to run,” says Brother Warnock. “First of all, servants of all, we shall transcend all.” I think we need to take that kind of commitment into the public square. It is sorely needed in this American moment. We are witnessing, in tragic fashion right now, ways in which leadership matters. And you might not like politics, but politics is unavoidable. Some would ask why would a pastor get engaged in something as treacherous and messy as politics. Well, you know, I live in my faith but I live under the law. So, whether you like politics, like faith, it impacts the lives of all of us. And so I’d like to see more Alpha men run. And those who don’t run, I’d like to see them get engaged. Don’t simply elect people into office and then go away. Keep engaging them. Call their office, write them letters, hold them accountable. Don’t let them show up at your church at election time and never show up again. Hold their feet to the fire. And then I’m so proud of the ways our fraternity has led in voting rights, voting education, and voter mobilization. I still remember ‘A Voteless People is a Hopeless People,’ and we need to take that spirit into 2020. These are challenging times, but when I look at leaders who are emerging all over our country, some of whom don’t get attention because they’re doing their work locally without a lot of fanfare. I’m still deeply hopeful about America. I love this country. I’m a great patriot like Doctor King, and the best patriots are the people who challenge the country to be better. And the great thing about our country is that at least we all had a path to make it better. So I refuse to give up on the nation, and Alpha men have always been at the center of the great conversation about what kind of country we want to be. And we need Alpha men at the center of the conversation now as much as ever before.” S

Brother Vic Carter is television news anchor for CBS, WJZ-TV Baltimore, MD.

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ALPHA ELECTED OFFICIALS AND THOSE SEEKING OFFICE Please note this is a partial list of Alpha elected officials and those seeking public office. Any omission is based on response and is unintentional.”

Members of Congress

Georgia

Brother David Scott, a Fall 1964 Beta Nu Chapter initiate, represents Georgia’s 13th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives. Brother Scott was born in Aynor, South Carolina and earned his bachelors degree at Florida A&M University and his MBA at Wharton School of Finance at the University of Pennsylvania. Brother Scott serves on the Committee of Agriculture and the Committee on Financial Services. Election day is November 3, 2020. Visit: www.davidscott.house. gov/

Illinois

Brother Danny Davis, a Fall 1984 Mu Mu Lambda Chapter initiate, represents Illinois 7th Congressional District in the U.S, House of Representatives. Brother Davis was born in Parkdale, Arkansas and earned subsequently earned both his Masters and Doctorate degrees respectively from Chicago State University and Union Institute in Cincinnati, Ohio. Brother Davis currently serves on the Ways and Means Committee. Election day is November 3, 2020. Visit: www.davis.house.gov/

Missouri

Brother Emanuel Cleaver II, a Fall 1964 Delta Theta Chapter initiate and member of Beta Lambda Chapter, represents Missouri’s 5th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives. Brother Cleaver III was born in Waxahachie, Texas and received his bachelor;s degree from Praire View A&M and his masters from St. Paul’s School of Theology. Brother Cleaver III serves on the Financial Services Committee, Committee on Homeland Services, and the Select Committee on the Modernization of Congress. Election day is November 3, 2020. Visit: www.cleaver.house.gov/

Nevada

Brother Steven Horsford, a Spring 2011 Eta Lambda Chapter initiate and member of Theta Pi Lambda Chapter, represents Nevada’s 4th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives. Brother Horsford was born in Las Vegas, Nevada and earned his degree from the University of Nevada, Reno. Brother Horsford serves on the Ways and Means Committee, The Budget Committee and the Committee on Natural Resources. Election day is November 3, 2020. Visit www.horsford.house.gov/

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Members of Congress

New York

Brother Gregory Meeks, a Spring 1989 Zeta Zeta Lambda Chapter initiate, represents New York’s 5th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives. Brother Davis grew up in East Harlem, New York and later graduated from Adelphi University with a bachelor’s degree in history before attending Howard Law School in D.C. Brother Meeks serves on both the Financial Services Committee and the Foreign Affairs Committee. Election day is November 3, 2020. Visit: www.meeks.house. gov/

Texas

Brother Alexander “Al” Green, a Spring 1968 Beta Nu Chapter initiate and member of Alpha Eta Lambda Chapter, represents Texas’s 9th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives. Brother Green was born in New Orleans, Louisiana and earned his Juris Doctorate from the Thurgood Marshall School of Law. Brother Green serves on the Financial Services Committee and the Committee on Homeland Services. Election day is November 3, 2020. Visit: www.algreen.house.gov/

Virginia

Brother Robert “Bobby” Scott, a Spring 1966 Sigma Chapter initiate and member of Zeta Lambda Chapter, represents Virginia’s 3rd Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives. Brother Scott grew up in Newport News, Virginia before graduating from Harvard College and Boston College Law School. Brother Scott currently serves on the Budget Committee and is Chairman for the Committee on Education and Labor. Election day is November 3, 2020, Visit: www.bobbyscott.house. gov/

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Other Offices ALABAMA Brother Ernest E. Newton II, a Fall 1975 initiate of Beta Iota Chapter at Winston Salem State University and member of Zeta Phi Lambda Chapter serves as Deputy Majority Leader of the Bridgeport City Council in Connecticut. Election is in 2021. Visit: https://www.bridgeportct. gov/content/341441/341399/ 343386/343397.aspx

Brother William Cooper, Sr., a Spring 1971 initiate of Theta Gamma Lambda and a member of Rho Upsilon Lambda Chapter, is seeking re-election for Mayor in Enterprise, Alabama. Election day is August 2, 2020. Visit: www. enterpriseal.gov Brother Janasky Fleming, a Spring 1993 initiate of Xi Beta at Troy University and a member of Rho Upsilon Lambda Chapter, is seeking re-election as City Commissioner – District 2 in Dothan, Alabama. Election day is August 2021. Visit: www.dothan.org Brother Randall Woodfin, a Spring 2002 initiate of Alpha Rho at Morehouse College serves as Mayor of Birmingham, Alabama. Election is in 2021. Visit: https://www. randallwoodfin.com/

Brother Wendell Saxon, a Spring 1977 initiate of Beta Upsilon at Alabama State University and member of Alpha Upsilon Lambda Chapter, serves on the Board of Education – District 2 in Elmore County, Alabama. Election is in 2024. Visit www. elmoreco.org

CONNECTICUT Brother Brandon McGee Jr., a Spring 2005 initiate of Beta Upsilon at Alabama State University and member of Beta Sigma Lambda Chapter serves as State Representative in Connecticut. Election is November 3, 2020. Visit: https:// www.housedems.ct.gov/McGee 28

Brother Shawn Wooden, a Spring 1990 initiate of Kappa Delta at the University of Connecticut serves as the State Treasurer in Connecticut. Election is in 2022. Visit: https://portal.ct.gov/ott

FLORIDA Brother Wayne Messam, a Spring 1994 initiate of Iota Delta at Florida State University and member of Beta Beta Lambda Chapter, serves as Mayor of Miramar, Florida. Election is 2023. Visit: www.miramarfl. gov/293/Mayor-Wayne-MMessam Brother Gordan Murray, a Fall 1981 initiate of Eta Delta at the University of Miami and member of Beta Beta Lambda Chapter, serves as CountyJudge – 11th Judicial Circuit in Miami-Dade County, Florida. Recently re-elected in April 2020. Visit: https://www.jud11.flcourts.org/ Brother Daryl Trawick, a Spring 1980 initiate of Eta Delta at the University of Miami and member of Beta Beta Lambda Chapter, serves as Circuit Court Judge – 11th Judicial Circuit in Florida. Recently re-elected in April 2020. Visit: https://www. jud11.flcourts.org/ THE SPHINX

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Other Offices (continued) GEORGIA

ILLINOIS Brother Paul Bronson, a Fall 2017 initiate of Epsilon Beta Lambda Chapter is running for Commissioner – District 2 in Macon-Bibb County, Georgia. Election day is May 19,2020. Visit www.paulbronson.com

Brother Corey Dixon, a Fall 2018 initiate of Mu Alpha Lambda serves as Councilman in Elgin, Illinois. Election day is March 2021. Visit www. coreyddixon.com

Brother Anthony Ford, a Spring 1977 initiate of Iota Xi and member of Rho Sigma Lambda serves as Mayor of Stockbridge, Georgia. Election is 2021. Visit: www. cityofstockbridge.com

Brother Dr. Eric Wallace, a Spring 2011 initiate of Theta Mu Lambda Chapter, is running for State Senator – District 40 in Illinois. Election is November 3, 2020. Visit: www. wallaceforillinois.net

Brother Juawn Jackson, a Fall 2014 initiate of Mu Gamma and member of Epsilon Beta Lambda Chapter, is running for School Board Member in Macon, Georgia. Election day is May 19, 2020. Visit https://www.facebook.com/ jackson4schools/?modal=admin_ todo_tour Brother Reverend Darryl Langford, a Spring 1987 initiate of Beta Sigma and member of Sigma Omicron Lambda Chapter, serves as Councilman in Fayetteville, Georgia. Election is November 2023. Visit www.votedarryllangford. com Brother Jasper Watkins, III, a Fall 1977 Beta Nu initiate at Florida A&M University and a member of Rho Kappa Lambda Chapter, is running for County Commissioner – District 3 in Gwinnett County, Georgia. Election day is May 19, 2020. Visit: www.watkins3for3.com

MARYLAND Brother Calvin Ball, a Fall 2017 initiate of Kappa Phi Lambda Chapter, serves as County Executive in Howard County, Maryland. Election is in 2021. Visit: https:// www.howardcountymd.gov/ Branches/County-Executive

Brother Dr. John Bullock, a Spring 1998 initiate of Gamma Iota at Hampton University and member of Delta Lambda Chapter, serves as City Councilman – District 9 in Baltimore, Maryland. Election is November 3, 2020. Visit: http:// www.baltimorecitycouncil.com/ john-bullock Brother Opel Jones, a Spring 1998 initiate of Gamma Iota at Hampton University and member of Kappa Phi Lambda Chapter, serves as Councilman - District 2 in Howard County, Maryland. Election is November 3, 2023. Visit www.opeljones.com (continued next page)

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Other Offices (continued) MARYLAND

(continued)

Brother Charles Sydnor III, a Fall 1996 Delta Lambda initiate, serves as a Senator – District 44 in Baltimore County, Maryland. Brother Sydnor was born in Baltimore, Maryland and earned his bachelors at John Hopkins University, his masters at the University of Maryland Baltimore County and his J.D from The University of Maryland Law School. Brother Sydnor III serves on the Committee on Judicial Proceedings, Joint Committee on Cybersecurity, Information Technology and Biotechnology and the Joint Committee on Ending Homelessness. Election is in 2024. Visit www.charlessydnor3d.org/

NORTH CAROLINA Brother Dr. Justin Harlow, a Spring 2007 initiate of Mu Alpha at Emory University and member of Beta Nu Lambda Chapter City Councilman – District 2 in Charlotte, North Carolina. Election is in 2021 (won’t be seeking reelection). Visit: www.facebook. com/HarlowforCharlotte/

OHIO Brother N.J. Akbar, Ph.D., a Spring 2004 Epsilon Eta initiate at Eastern Michigan University and a member of Eta Tau Lambda Chapter, serves as Vice President of the Board of Education in Akron, Ohio. Election is in 2023. Visit: www. njakbar.com

MICHIGAN Brother James Tate, Jr., a Fall 2014 initiate of Gamma Lambda Chapter serves as City Councilman – District 1 in Detroit, Michigan. Election is in 2021. Visit: www.detroitmi. gov/government/city-council/ city-council-district-1

Brother Basheer Jones, a Spring 2008 initiate of Delta Alpha Lambda Chapter serves as City Councilman – Ward 7 in Cleveland, Ohio. Election is in 2021. Visit: https:// clevelandcitycouncil.org/aboutcity-council

MINNESOTA Brother Melvin Carter III, a Spring 1999 initiate of Beta Nu and member of Gamma Xi Lambda Chapter serves as Mayor of St. Paul, Minnesota. Election is in 2021. Visit www. stpaul.gov/departments/ mayors-office

NEW YORK Brother Byron Brown, a Spring 1980 initiate of Delta Epsilon and member of Rho Lambda Chapter serves as Mayor of Buffalo, New York. Election is in 2021. Visit www.buffalony.gov/

Brother Fanon A. Rucker, a Spring 1992 initiate of Gamma Iota at Hampton University and member of Delta Gamma Lambda Chapter is running for Hamilton County Prosecutor in Ohio. Election is November 3, 2020. Visit https://fanonrucker. com/meet-fanon-rucker/

TENNESSEE Brother Torrey Harris, a Spring 2018 initiate of Nu Eta Chapter is running for the House of Representatives – District 90 in Tennessee. Election day is August 6, 2020. Visit www. torreyharris.com

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Other Offices (continued) TEXAS

VIRGINIA Brother Justin Fairfax, a Spring 1997 initiate of Kappa Omicron at Duke University and member of Xi Alpha Lambda Chapter serves as Lieutenant Governor for the Commonwealth of Virginia. Election is in 2022. Visit www.ltgov.virginia.gov/

Brother Christopher Bates, a Fall 2013 initiate of Gamma Tau Lambda Chapter is seeking re-election for a 3rd term as County Constable – Precinct 2 in Jefferson County, Texas. Election day is November 3, 2020. Visit www. BatesForConstable.com Brother Anthoni Hanson, a Spring 1991 initiate of Eta Gamma at Prairie View A&M University, serves as Board Trustee – Pflugerville ISD, in Pflugerville, Texas. Election is May 2021. Visit: www. hanson4pfisd.com

Brother Borris Miles, a Spring 1986 Theta Mu initiate and member of Alpha Eta Lambda Chapter serves as a Senator – District 13 in Texas. Brother Miles is a lifelong resident of Houston, Texas and earned his bachelor's degree at Sam Houston State University. Brother Miles serves on the Justice Committee, Health and Human Services Committee, Natural Resources and Economic Development Committee, and Nominations Committee. Election day is November 3, 2020. Visit https://senate.texas.gov/member.php?d=13 Brother Quinton Phillips, a Fall 2018 initiate of Beta Tau Lambda serves on the Board of Education Trustee in Fort Worth, Texas. Election is in 2023. Visit www. quintonphillips.com

INTERNATIONAL BERMUDA Brother David Burt, a Spring 1998 initiate of Nu Beta at George Washington University and member of Epsilon Theta Lambda serves as the Premier of Bermuda. Bermuda does not have fixed election dates. Visit: https://www.gov.bm/Premierof-Bermuda Brother Wayne Michael Caines, a Spring 1993 initiate of Rho Chi at the University of Alabama, Huntsville and member of Epsilon Theta Lambda Chapter, serves as the Minister of National Security in Bermuda. Bermuda does not have fixed election dates. Visit: http:// parliament.bm/about/view/7 Brother Diallo Rabain, a Spring 2002 initiate of Epsilon Theta Lambda serves as Minister of Education and Workforce Development in Bermuda. Bermuda does not have fixed election dates. Visit: http:// parliament.bm/cabinet/view/45 Brother W. Lawrence Scott, a 2009 initiate of Epsilon Theta Lambda Chapter serves as Government Whip in Bermuda. Bermuda does not have fixed election dates. Visit: http:// parliament.bm/parliament/ view/24

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SERVANT LEADERS

BY BROTHER NEHEMIAH BESTER

BROTHER DR. CAMERON WEBB EMERGES AS A FORWARDING-THINKING CANDIDATE FOR VIRGINIA’S 5TH CONGRESSIONAL SEAT IN AN ERA OF UNCERTAINTY, BROTHER WEBB HOPES TO PROVIDE RELIABILITY IN VIRGINIA’S LARGEST DISTRICT

rowing up in Spotsylvania, Virginia, Brother Dr. Cameron Webb’s parents always taught him to take an active role in his community and to serve those in need. His mother, a public speech therapist and father a human resources manager with the DEA, instilled in a model of leadership that began with being a good listener and a hard worker.

Today, he plans to use those lessons and the experience he’s gained throughout his life to channel a groundbreaking movement to make the Commonwealth of Virginia’s 5th District the best it can be. Brother Webb first announced his candidacy to serve as the representative for Virginia’s 5th District in the U.S. House of Representatives in August of 2019.

hopes that his unifying vision and mission for equity throughout all of Virginia will elevate his campaign’s momentum through the primaries which are being held on June 23rd. “I’m running to reflect all of the voices across Virginia’s 5th District who are committed to common sense, fairness and serving the best interests of working families,” Brother Webb says. “In Washington, I will be a fierce advocate to ensure opportunities for health

“From my announcement of this campaign last August up through today, I have been committed to be a consensusbuilder, equity advocate, and a leader who outlines meaningful actions to ensure that everyone has opportunities for health and success. That vision has been consistent and has been sufficient,” Webb says “In a time when our society is so bitterly divided, of course I encounter the negativity and contempt of a few, but Brother Dr. Cameron Webb that pales in comparison to the widespread expressions of hope for a fair chance and and success for all Virginians. When we win this race, the desire to simply be heard.” I will not only be the first Black representative for this district, but I will be the first Black physician to be a Virginia’s 5th district is the largest in the state. Its area voting member of the United States Congress. A true man of Alpha, I aim to be first of all, a servant of all, and spreads over 10,000 square miles and is larger than I believe we can transcend all.” six U.S. states; Vermont, Rhode Island, Connecticut, Delaware, New Hampshire and New Jersey. The district Brother Webb uniquely works as a practicing physician, itself runs from Northern Virginia in Fauquier County all lawyer, and professor at the University of Virginia in the way down to the North Carolina border in Danville. Charlottesville, where he attended college and was The district has long been GOP-held but Brother Webb 32

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initiated into the Iota Beta Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc., in 2003. In addition, he serves as the Director of Public Health Policy and Equity at the UVA School of Medicine. After completing law school, medical school, and residency training, Brother Webb gained the attention of President Obama and received a White House Fellowship in 2016, where he served on the White House Health Care Team and President Obama’s My Brother’s Keeper Initiative. Brother Webb’s time as a White House Fellow was spent tackling key issues in education, criminal justice reform and workforce development. “As a practicing internal medicine doctor, I have a service-oriented vocation, a craft, in which I am very proud,” he says. “As a lawyer focused on health law and policy, I have an area of expertise where I can add value. As a university educator, I have opportunities to engage, to expose and to shape minds. It’s a very rewarding process for me. Through prayer, I knew that my focus on fixing our healthcare system and working for equity and justice would be critical for a time such as this. This has become even more apparent through our current coronavirus pandemic.”

As a Black physician, Brother Webb has seen how the novel coronavirus pandemic has been impacting communities most vulnerable to the virus. He plans to use his platform to advocate for those who are disproportionately being afflicted and close the gap on health care inequality. “I’m running a campaign centered on healthcare expertise at a time when the failure to lean into science and expertise has only exacerbated the pain of our global pandemic,” says the father of two, whose wife of 10 years, Dr. Leigh-Ann Webb, is an emergency physician at UVA and woman of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. “In healthcare, we have widespread disparities in access to care and life expectancy across the district—issues we can address through expanded access and improved affordability. I feel that my campaign is built for such a time as this.” Within the Fraternity, he is a proud member of Gamma Alpha Lambda Chapter, and also served as the Assistant Director for VACAPAF prior to completing his Interdisciplinary Studies major in the distinguished Echols Scholars program at UVA in 2005. S

BY BROTHER NEHEMIAH BESTER

NEW YORK NATIVE BROTHER MICHAEL BLAKE’S GRASSROOTS MOVEMENT TO BETTER THE BRONX BROTHER BLAKE HOPES TO BE FIRST AFRICAN AMERICAN CONGRESSMAN FOR DISTRICT

rom his humble beginnings selling chocolates and meals throughout his community to help his single-parent mother pay bills to his early volunteer efforts at Calvary United Methodist Church to give back to those in need, Brother Michael Blake continues to work tirelessly to help others and his community. He is now attempting to channel that same spirit in his run for New York’s 15th congressional district. Blake first announced his intentions to run for the congressional seat in the New York Bronx district back in 2019. “Running in a district where I could become the first African American Member of Congress, we have been working tirelessly to build the momentum SPRING 2020

of a grassroots field organization and collecting endorsements along the way,” says Brother Blake. “Despite the challenges, I have continued to be present in my community, from serving thousands of meals to Bronxites in need in collaboration with World Central Kitchen to helping support The Bronx Community Relief Effort. We are showing once more that goodwill is the monarch of this House.” Brother Blake, who currently serves as both the ViceChair of the Democratic National Committee and New York State Assemblyman from the 79th district, was born in the Bronx to parents who had migrated from Jamaica. As a child, he was raised by a single mother who was homeless at one point in her life. 33

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After graduating from DeWitt Clinton High School in the New York City public school system, Brother Blake studied at Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois where he graduated with a degree in journalism. He is also a 2001 initiate of the Alpha Mu Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. and a life member in the Rho Psi Lambda Chapter in the Bronx.

provided economic education and financial literacy to youth and adults. His career in politics began when he worked in the Michigan House of Representatives as well as for Illinois State Senator Jeffrey Schoenberg. Subsequently, his career led him to serve as the Iowa deputy political director for President Barack Obama in the 2008 United States presidential election. In the years following President Obama’s election, Brother Blake would serve as the associate director of the Office of Intergovernmental Affairs and as the national deputy director of Operation Vote for President Obama in his 2012 re-election. Additionally, he was the national director for African American and Minority Women Business Enterprises outreach at the White House and created the White House Urban Entrepreneurship series. “My vision for New York’s 15th Congressional District is BELIEVE IN THE BRONX so that we become a thriving urban metropolis in the world. In the most diverse, most Democratic congressional district in America, we will show what is possible when you invest in urban communities,” he says. “In Congress, I plan to focus on Equity and Economic Justice, transform housing, invest in public hospitals, community colleges, and Veterans’ groups, all of which have been underserved for far too long.”

Brother Michael Blake

“We as Alpha Men understand that our heads may be bloodied but they are unbowed. These moments where we turn pain into promise reminds us that all politics are local and how we help people today will determine if they believe in us tomorrow.” Following his graduation, Brother Blake began working for organizations such as Green for All, whose goals to build a green economy while lifting citizens out of poverty and Operation Hope, a non-profit that

Throughout his career, Brother Blake has also worked on the My Brother’s Keeper program to support young men of color, secured a $100 million in additional funding for the NYC Housing Authority, and ensured the employees of Women and Minority-owned Business Enterprises were paid fairly and on time. Ultimately, Brother Blake believes that it matters who represents the Bronx in Washington, and that he will be able to offer transformational legislation. “I believe that your block won’t block your blessing, and your zip code won’t deny your destiny. I am running for Congress because I BELIEVE in the Bronx.” S

THE SPHINX

POLITICAL IDEOLOGY & ACTION

BY 29TH GENERAL PRESIDENT BROTHER MILTON CARVER DAVIS, ESQ.

CHAOS OR COMMUNITY: A REPRISE

ore than 53 years ago, the African American Baptist minister, Nobel Peace Prize laureate, social justice campaigner and Alpha Man, Brother Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. completed his last book published in 1967 before his assassination on April 4, 1968. Dr. King spent a long period in isolation, living in a rented residence with no telephone to distract him in Jamaica as he contemplated the profound question – Where Do We Go From Here: Chaos or Community? That question continues to resonate with us today. In 1967 the United States was at war internally and externally. The Civil Rights Movement dramatically forged ahead dismantling the brutal American Apartheid System of racial segregation, the denial of basic constitutional rights of due process, equal protection of the law and access to public accommodations; removing barriers to equality of opportunity and the right to vote for people of color.

in “Bloody Sunday” is but one example. Riots claimed hundreds of lives and destroyed major portions of our urban cities. Externally, the Viet Nam War raged on claiming over 47,000 young American soldiers with another 304,000 wounded. Millions protested the involvement and motives of the United States in this devastating war thousands of miles from our shores and the value of expending lives and treasure on such a protracted war. Chaos reigned and the concept of community seemed a distant fantasy in the minds of many. Dr. King pondered where do we go from here? In the year 2020, the era which will be defined by the Coronavirus Pandemic, we find ourselves quarantined and isolated from others with time to contemplate anew who are we; what are our priorities and how shall be spend our lives, energy and resources when we can finally emerge from this period of social distancing and

Resistance to this peaceful movement by those in power led to confrontations marked by violence Brother Davis and domestic terrorism particularly against African Americans and their allies of all races. The assassinations of civil rights activist Medgar Evers in Jackson, MS in 1963; President John F. Kennedy in Dallas, TX in 1963; The 16th Street Baptist Church bombing in Birmingham in 1963 killing four young girls and injuring 22 others attending Sunday School; and the subsequent assassinations of Malcolm X in New York in 1965; Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. in Memphis in 1968; Senator Robert Kennedy in Los Angeles in 1968, underscored the fact that no one was safe. Hundreds more were martyred because of their race and their beliefs in equality and justice for all. Millions of people protested, and thousands were arrested and jailed for exercising their constitutional rights of free speech and assembly. Peaceful protest was often met with brutal police repression and violence. The Selma to Montgomery March resulting SPRING 2020

POLITICAL IDEOLOGY & ACTION

hopefully serious contemplation? The entire world is paused and focused on a single issue. How do we survive? We cannot survive alone. We need other people to survive. Community is the only option for our individual survival, our families’ future and the sustainability of the world. At the beginning of the pandemic crisis we used terms such as “essential” and “non-essential.” We see that first responders in the field of public safety namely, police, fire-rescue, emergency medical technicians, ambulance drivers, medical professionals and health care personnel of every description are labeled essential. We also readily see as essential long haul truck drivers who transport food, medicine and equipment; food preparers and grocery store workers who resupply bare store shelves and those who provide utility services, safe water, electricity and communications; those who pick up and dispose of our garbage and refuse. So too are those who make home delivery of mail, packages, food and necessities; those who teach our children in schools and the school support staff; those who provide daycare for children and care for the elderly in nursing homes are all essential. We find that we absolutely need government at every level to be knowledgeable and proficient and provide for the whole of society that which we cannot do individually. As we list who and what we need to survive, we quickly conclude that all are essential, and no one is “non-essential.” We see that community (all of us together) is the only reasonable path to survival of the planet earth. The pandemic demonstrates to us anew that race, creed, color, ethnicity, social status, religious or cultural background are artificial, irrelevant barriers and that we must judge only on the basis of conduct and behavior – seeing every person as a valued human being worthy of life, respect and opportunity. It is not so much what you say that is important but rather what you do is the most important thing. Respect for life is the core value we see as medical professionals valiantly fight to save those afflicted with this plague at the risk of their own safety. Our challenge is to eliminate the politics which devalues life and says that those of a certain age are expendable and should be left to die so that others may survive. We see cynical

politics now prevailing which provides trillions of dollars public money labeled for the support of workers and small businesses only to be doled out to those large businesses and companies who already have millions of dollars in reserve while some cannot make application for funding due to the back log of applications in the system. Trillions of dollars to the rich and no money for the minimum wage workers. Some who are unjustly enriched are being shamed by public social commentary into returning the money which should never have been disbursed to them in the first place. The cynical politics, which governs America today; which blatantly promotes racial discord, class division and economic disparity for the gain of the rich and powerful should be removed from our society. We have the power to begin that process of removal in November 2020. Building community is fundamental to that goal. Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity’s mission and legacy is the building of community. Our greatest strength lies at the local level with our member and chapter involvement in the community. We provide leadership and service where it matters most at the local level. We provide role models and advocacy in the community which uplifts and strengthens the ability of people to collectively impact their circumstances and change the outcome of things. Where do we go from here? Back to the basics of instilling hope and building relationships at the local level which are key to the success of any movement and these components have well served the mission of our fraternity for over 113 years. We cannot afford to give just our spare time, our spare change, and our small talk to the affairs of our fraternity, our community, our nation, and the world. Our great commission is that we undertake to give quality time, strategic resources, and profound thought to these affairs and that we inspire others by our example. This is the mission passed down from our Founders. This is the motivation and focus of where we go from here. This is the cause we have championed and to which we have devoted our energies and strength since 1906. This is the essence of the brotherhood of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. May it be so forever. S

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POLITICAL IDEOLOGY & ACTION

BY BROTHER REV. DR. WILLIAM J. BARBER

Reviving The Heart & Soul of Democracy

he United States is the wealthiest nation in the history of the world, yet millions of American families every year set up crowdfunding sites to raise money for their loved ones’ medical bills. Millions more can buy unleaded gas for their car while they can’t get unleaded water in their homes. Almost half of America’s workers—whether in Appalachia or Alabama, California or Carolina—work for less than a living wage. And as school buildings in poor communities crumble for lack of investment, America’s billionaires are paying a lower tax rate than the poorest half of households.

This moral crisis has come to a head as the coronavirus pandemic lays bare America’s deep injustices. While the virus itself may not discriminate, it is the poor and disenfranchised who will experience the most suffering and death. They’re the ones least likely to have health care, most likely to lose work hours, and least likely to have paid sick leave from their jobs. And though children are less vulnerable to the virus itself than adults, America’s nearly 40 million poor and low-income children are at serious risk of losing access to food, shelter, education and housing in the economic fallout from the pandemic. In short, the pandemic of poverty was killing 700 of us a day in the world’s wealthiest country long before anyone heard of the coronavirus. The moral crisis of poverty amid vast wealth is inseparable from the injustice of systemic racism, ecological devastation, and our militarized war economy. It is only a minority rule sustained by voter suppression and gerrymandering that subverts the will of the people. To redeem the soul of America we must have a moral fusion movement that cuts across race, gender, class, and cultural divides. The United States has always been a nation at odds with its professed aspirations of equality and justice for all—from the genocide of original inhabitants to slavery to military aggression abroad. But there have been periods in our history when courageous social movements have made significant advances. We must learn from those who’ve gone before us as we strive to build a movement that can tackle today’s injustices—and help all of us survive. In the aftermath of the Civil War, African Americans who had just escaped slavery joined hands with white allies to form coalitions that won control of nearly every southern legislature. These Reconstruction-era political alliances enacted new constitutions that advanced moral agendas, including, for the first time, the right to public education. During the Great Depression, farmers, workers, veterans, and others rose up to demand bold government action to ease the pain of the economic crisis on ordinary Americans. This led to New Deal policies, programs, and public works projects that we still benefit from today, such as Social Security and basic labor protections.

Brother Reverend Dr. Barber II

SPRING 2020

Pushed by these movements, President Franklin Delano Roosevelt even called in 1944 for an economic bill of rights, 37

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declaring: “We cannot be content, no matter how high that general standard of living may be, if some fraction of our people—whether it be one-third or one-fifth or onetenth—is ill-fed, ill-clothed, ill-housed, and insecure.” During what I like to call the “Second Reconstruction” over the following decades, a coalition of blacks and progressive whites began dismantling the racist Jim Crow laws and won key legislative victories, including the Civil Rights Act, the Voting Rights Act, and the Fair Housing Act. With each period of advancement has come a formidable backlash. This is how we find ourselves today, in the year 2020, with levels of economic inequality as severe as during the original Gilded Age a century ago. Since the Supreme Court’s 2013 Shelby decision, Americans have had fewer voting rights protections than we did fifty-five years ago, while thanks to the earlier Citizens United ruling, corporations can invest unlimited sums of money to influence elections. In response to fair tax reforms, the wealthy have used their economic clout to slash their IRS bills, cutting the top marginal income tax rate from more than 90 percent in the 1950s to 37 percent today. In response to the hard-fought wins of the labor movement, corporate lobbyists have rammed through one anti-worker law after another, slashing the share of U.S. workers protected by unions nearly in half, from 20.1 percent in 1983 to just 10.5 percent in 2018. Decades after Depression-era reforms, Wall Street fought successfully to deregulate the financial system, paving the way for the 2008 financial crash that caused millions to lose their homes and livelihoods. And the ultra-rich and big corporations have also managed to dominate our campaign finance system, making it easier for them to buy off politicians who commit to rigging the rules against the poor and the environment, and to suppress voting rights, making it harder for the poor to fight back.

The only ones who benefit are the millionaire CEOs of military companies, who are getting richer every year on the more than $350 billion—half the military budget—that goes directly to their corporations. In the meantime 23,000 low-ranking troops earn so little that they and their families qualify for food stamps. Key to these rollbacks: controlling the narrative about who is poor in America and the world. It is in the interest of the greedy and the powerful to perpetuate myths of deservedness—that they deserve their wealth and power because they are smarter and work harder, while the poor deserve to be poor because they are lazy and intellectually inferior. It’s also in their interest to perpetuate the myth that the poverty problem has largely been solved and so we needn’t worry about the rich getting richer—even while our real social safety net is full of gaping holes. This myth has been reinforced by our deeply flawed official measurements of poverty and economic hardship. The way the U.S. government counts who is poor and who is not, frankly, is a 60-year-old mess that doesn’t tell us what we need to know. It’s an inflation-adjusted measure of the cost of a basket of food in 1955 relative to household income, adjusted for family size—and it’s still the way we measure poverty today. But this measure doesn’t account for the costs of housing, child care, or health care, much less twenty-first century needs like internet access or cell phone service. It doesn’t even track the impacts of anti-poverty programs like Medicaid or the earned income tax credit, obscuring the role they play in reducing poverty. In short, the official measure of poverty doesn’t begin to touch the depth and breadth of economic hardship in the world’s wealthiest nation, where 40 percent of us can’t afford a $400 emergency.

Our military budgets continue to rise, now grabbing more than 53 cents of every discretionary federal dollar to pay for wars abroad and pushing our ability to pay for health care for all, for a Green New Deal, for jobs and education, and infrastructure, further and further away.

In a report with the Institute for Policy Studies, the Poor People’s Campaign found that nearly 140 million Americans were poor or low-income—including more than a third of white people, 40 percent of Asian people, approximately 60 percent each of indigenous people and black people, and 64 percent of Latinx people. LGBTQ people are also disproportionately affected.

The wars that those military budgets fund continue to escalate. They don’t make us safer, and they’ve led to the deaths of thousands of poor people in Afghanistan, Syria, Somalia, and beyond, as well as the displacement of millions of refugees, the destruction of water sources, and the contamination of the environments of whole countries.

Further, the very condition of being poor in the United States has been criminalized through a system of racial profiling, cash bail, the myth of the Reagan-era “Welfare Queen,” arrests for things such as laying one’s head on a park bench, passing out food to unsheltered people,

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BY BROTHER EUGENE B. JOHNSON

Technological Exploitation of Social Movements, A Case Study: Black Lives Matter

n July 13, 2013, George Zimmerman was acquitted of second-degree murder in Florida vs. George Zimmerman. Zimmerman had an altercation with Trayvon Martin on February 26, 2012; the altercation resulted in the death of Trayvon Martin. After seeing the news coverage of George Zimmerman on television all day, Alicia Garza typed on Facebook “Black people. I love` you. I love us. Our lives matter.” After seeing Garza’s post, Patrisse Cullors, typed “I start loving on black people, saying, ‘I hope y’all are loving on yourselves today.” She hashtagged this post with the phrase, “black lives matter.” The hashtag then became something they used with people they loved, and it eventually moved them to team with a third woman, Opal Tometi, to start a movement. Thus, the #BlackLivesMatter movement and organization began.

the political process. McAdam explains the declining importance of cotton in the national economy; alongside the demand in the north for extra laborers, who were often black, this split the economic alliance that had existed between the North and South. The great migration allowed for collective action for black people, which started in black churches, black colleges, and the NAACP. Based on the resource mobilization theory, it would make sense that a contraction of resources would result in movement

In the following years, the #BlackLivesMatter movement has dominated the media while also building coalitions both locally and nationally. The Civil Rights movement is not genealogically linked to the #BlackLivesMatter movement, but due to the aims being similar, comparisons are apt. Doug McAdam’s, Political Process and the Development of Black Insurgency, 1930 – 1970, presents a model of the political process that explains the rise and fall of black protest movements in the United States. He presents empirical analysis and theoretical concerns. For his research, McAdams focuses on black churches, black colleges, and Southern chapters of the NAACP. He estimates that political opportunities, more political efficacy, and the development of these three institutions played a central role in shaping the civil rights movement. McAdam argues that three factors are essential to the success of social movements: (1) opportunities in politics, threats, and constraints confronting challengers (2) The forms of organization (both informal and formal) available to protestors (insurgents) as sites for mobilization, and lastly, (3) The collective processes of interpretation, attribution and social cognition that mediate between opportunity and action. McAdam provides historical context to offer some background to the social movements that helped SPRING 2020

decline. There was a decline in organization strength, a lack of consensus over goals and issue proliferation, and there was a rise in inner-movement conflict, geographic diffusion, and much more (McAdams, 1982). In today’s Black Lives Matter movement, social media has begun to fill this void. Previous research has addressed this void by contextualizing the spread of the hashtag and by researching the role social media plays in connecting activists and disseminating information (Mundt et al.). Social movements are “collective challenges, based on common purposes and social solidarities, in sustained interaction with elites, opponents, and authorities”(Tarrow 2011). Movements are dynamic and hard to control because they are a loose association of individuals. Through societal evolution, collective action began to encompass large-scale demonstrations and boycotts, which led to cosmopolitan repertoires with 39

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“modular” tactics (Staggenborg 2016; Tarrow 2011). This means that they could be easily transplanted to other locations and situations instead of being tied to one situation and place. This change in the nature of repertoires is useful in contemporary social movements as the members of these movements are almost always spatially dispersed. The nature of social movements, however, is not set in stone and could, therefore, change as political conditions change (Tilly and Wood 2013). For example, social movements are becoming increasingly global and this has resulted in greater reliance on Internet-based protests (Bennet and Segerberg 2013; Rheingold 2002). In the age of the internet, “e-tactics” like online-based petitions or viral posts on Twitter are useful and involve very little costs for participants (Earl and Kimport 2011). As technology continues to be innovative, it is also becoming increasingly more affordable (Rheingold 2002), this means that it is likely for individuals of varied classes to have the ability to participate in movements through devices. Even those which rely on technology to mobilize need to use these tools to get people on the streets for face-to-face protests (Staggenborg 2016). The internet allows for quick and inexpensive ways of reaching a large number of potential supporters, especially in situations where these supporters are quite spatially spread out (Rheingold 2002; Schulz 1998; Staggenborg 2016). It is important to distinguish between the types of movements made possible through the use of the internet (Earl and Kimport; 2011). E-mobilizations use online tools but result in face-to-face protests by providing potential supporters with information, motivation, and organization (though this last one is not necessary). A recent example of large-scale E-mobilization was the March for Science in 2017, which was caused by the Trump administration’s views on climate change and science. Conversely, an E-movement is organized strictly online and often lacks formal organization (Earl and Schussman 2003). An example of an E-movement is the signing of a petition and though there are more involved internet-based movements, these involve the lowest cost for participants. Whether it be E-mobilization or and E-movement, digital media is allowing organizers to bypass mainstream mass media and creates support for networks that allow movements to spread rapidly (Staggenborg 2016). Technology can be exceptionally useful in engendering a politicized collective identity (Rheingold 2000; 2002). It can create what Rheingold terms “smart mobs,” these mobile ad hoc social networks and require more 40

explanation. Smart mobs are mobile in that cell phones and other devices make communication possible, which allows for informal, “on the fly” organizing. Social networks in this concept of smart mobs are created through people who serve as nodes with links to other individuals. Much like the individuals in traditional forms of collective action, smart mobs are made up of individuals who must make the decision to act. With the age of technology comes the concern for privacy assurances and individuals hesitate to make a move until a threshold is met. Meeting a certain threshold can tip the crown into widespread cooperation (Rheingold 2002). There is multi-faceted nature to technology. While it can be conducive to a modern form of collective action for the good, it can also be a collective action to achieve a less than optimal end. With the heightened accessibility and exploitability of technology, we move further away from the possibility of using it for a common good and closer to its being a means to an individualistic end. In the case of mobilizing protests with the help of technology, we recognize the ease with which counter-protests can also be organized. This accessibility of technology, thus, also dampens its utility to collective action efforts. Every great instrument known to man has an inevitable malignant form of abuse. Technology is no stranger to this. The anger and anxiety found in the American political landscape have been simmering in the background for years. In politics alone, policy and elections can be injected with implicit connotations to create in- and out- groups through which anxiety and resentment can sway voters. In a pre-Trump era, Banks (2014) found that campaigns in which anger is featured prominently led to those who scored higher in symbolic racism to emphasize what they perceived to be racial cues. He shows that anger plays a powerful role in activating out-group prejudice among different groups and in different contexts in the United States. He discusses the growth of immigrant populations and other countries and the anti-immigrant sentiment in Europe. Here anger over austerity measures also plays a role: he argues that anger is detrimental to achieving racial equality. These implicit cues and the evasion of overtly racially/ethnically charged have ceased to be the norm in our Trump-era. Digital networks allow protestors to broadcast to the world; this raises the costs of repression through attention from a sympathetic global public. Technology gives accessibility to people on the ground, it creates access to viral videos of extreme measures of repression, and the immediacy of the internet should THE SPHINX

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cause a pause in the actions of authority figures. Freelon et al., demonstrate abstract concepts of how power developed in offline social movements and how it shows itself and changes over time in social media.

in which the Black Lives matter movement predicts the response that the mainstream media has of police brutality, which in turn is the most reliable driver of elites giving the issue attention.

The authors also present evidence that these forms of power can help further movements’ policy goals directly. Freelon et al. (2018), find that by studying retweets, that there is a model of social media efficacy

Thus, technology has filled this void by creating organizational strength through unity, numbers, and commitment to the objectives of the Black Lives Matter movement. S

References: Banks, Antoine. 2014. Anger and Racial Politics: The Emotional Foundation of Racial Attitudes in America. New York: Cambridge University Press. Bennet w. Lance and Alexandra Segerberg. 2013. The Logic of Connective Action: Digital Media and the Personalization of Contentious Politics. New York: Cambridge University Press. Earl, J. S., & Schussman, A. (2003). The new site of activism: on-line organizations, movement entrepreneurs, and the changing location of social movement decision making. Research in Social Movements, Conflicts and Change, 24: 155-187. Earl, Jennifer and Katrina Kimport. 2011. Digitally Enabled Social Change: Activism in the Internet Age. Cambridge: MIT Press. Freelon, D., McIlwain, C., & Clark, M. (2018). Quantifying the power and consequences of social media protest. New Media & Society, 20(3), 990–1011. https://doi-org.libezp.lib.lsu.edu/10.1177/1461444816676646 McAdam, Doug. 1996. “The Framing Function of Movement Politics: Strategic Dramaturgy In the American Civil Rights Movement.” Pp. 338-355 in Comparative Perspectives on Social Movements: Political Opportunities, Mobilizing Structures, and Cultural Framings, edited by D. McAdam, J. D. McCarthy, and M. N. Zald. Cambridge, UK: Cambridge University Press. Marcia Mundt, Karen Ross, & Charla M Burnett. (2018). Scaling Social Movements Through Social Media: The Case of Black Lives Matter. Social Media + Society, Vol 4 (2018). https://doi-org.libezp.lib.lsu.edu/10.1177/2056305118807911 Rheingold, Howard. 2000. The Virtual Community: Homesteading on the Electronic Frontier. Cambridge: MIT University Press. Rheingold, Howard. 2002. Smart Mobs: The Next Social Revolution. Cambridge: Basic Books. Schulz, M. S. (1998). Collective Action across Borders: Opportunity Structures, Network Capacities, and Communicative Praxis in the Age of Advanced Globalization. Sociological Perspectives, 41(3), 587–616. Staggenborg, Suzanne. 2016. Social Movements. New York: Oxford University Press Tarrow, Sidney. 2011. Power in Movement: Social Movements, Collective Action, and Politics (3rd ed.). NewYork: Cambridge University Press. Tilly, Charles and Lesley J. Wood. 2013. Social Movements, 1768-2012, 3rd ed. Boulder, CO: Paradigm.

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and extraordinary fines and fees for misdemeanors such as failing to use a righthand turn signal, and simply walking while black or trans. We are a nation crying out for security, equity, and justice. We need racial equity. We need good jobs. We need quality public education. We need a strong social safety net. We need health care to be understood as a human right for all of us. We need security for people living with disabilities. We need to be a nation that opens our hearts and neighborhoods to immigrants. We need safe and healthy environments where our children can thrive instead of struggling to survive. To address this moral crisis, we need a mass moral fusion movement that builds on and learns from the bold movements of U.S. history. This is why the Poor People’s SPRING 2020

Campaign is organizing the largest virtual gathering of poor and low wealth people, moral leaders and their allies in US history on June 20, 2020. There, the poor and poverty-impacted people of this nation will tell their stories, and there we will demand policies that address the real needs of nearly half the U.S. population. America is an imperfect nation, but we have made important advancements against interconnected injustices in the past. We can do it again, and we know how. Now is the time to come together. Now is the time to fight together for the heart and soul of this democracy. S

The Reverend Dr. William J. Barber II is president of Repairers of the Breach and co-chair of the Poor People’s Campaign: A National Call for Moral Revival. 41

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SPECIAL TO THE SPHINX

WSU LAW SCHOOL ANNOUNCES THE DAMON J. KEITH PRE-LAW SUMMER INSTITUTE

ayne State University School of Law named its first-of-its-kind program for graduates of Detroit high schools interested in studying law after the late Alpha Brother Judge Damon Keith – a United States Circuit Judge of the United States Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit. For more than 50 years, Brother Keith, who transition to Omega Chapter last year while still in office, persuasively and movingly defended the Constitution and helped communities enforce their civil rights.

“We are very grateful to the AccessLex Institute for their support of this unique opportunity at Wayne Law, said Wayne Law Dean Richard A. Bierschbach. “To host this program at the Law School in the Damon J. Keith Center for Civil Rights is particularly meaningful. We look forward to a summer filled with robust programming and opportunities that will give graduates of Detroit Public Schools exclusive insight into law school and the legal profession before they even fill out their applications.” The six-week summer program, which is funded by a grant of more than $59,000 from AccessLex Institute, is free to all participating rising juniors and seniors who are pursuing an undergraduate degree at any institution. Sophomores participating in a 3+3 program at Wayne State or Oakland University are also eligible to apply. Brother Damon J. Keith

Applicants must have graduated from a Detroit Public Schools Community District Public High School. Due to the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic, however, the Damon J. Keith Pre-Law Summer Institute has been postponed until 2021. Applications are accepted and will be reviewed on a rolling basis. To apply, visit: www.go.wayne.edu/ djk-institute S

THE SPHINX

POLITICAL IDEOLOGY & ACTION

BY BROTHER ADRIAN STRATTON

PARLIAMENTARY LAW AND THE DEVELOPMENT OF ORGANIZATIONS, LEADERS, AND ADVOCATES

powerful device for use in advocating ideas and ensuring fairness is parliamentary law.

Used in some form by almost all organized groups, the rules of order that various members adopt to self-govern are critical in determining how business is conducted.

“Rules are necessary because it is dangerous to rely on the inspiration of the moment for standards of action or conduct.”1 Governments, corporations, unincorporated associations, and other groups need structure that procedure and rules provide in order to flourish. “If there are no rules, or established customs that have the force of rules, there is no restraint upon the majority, and no way by which the rights of the minority can be protected.”2 Acquiring a basic understanding of parliamentary law can help ensure organizations are effective in carrying out their stated objectives. Parliamentary law is a useful SPRING 2020

tool in the development of leaders and advocates. Understanding the rules adopted by an organization empowers a member to fully engage in the business of the group and to provide leadership. Parliamentary law is known by several other names including parliamentary procedure, parliamentary practice, and rules of order.3 Subordinate to applicable jurisdictional law (such as federal, state, and municipal laws), parliamentary law is at its core a study of how organizations choose to govern themselves. According to Demeter, “There are five great principles underlying the rules of parliamentary law, namely: (1) Order. That is, there must be orderly procedure. (2) Equality. That is, all members are equal before the rule of law. (3) Justice. That is, “justice for all.” (4) Right of the minority to be heard on questions; (5) Right of the majority to rule the organization.”4 To fully participate in the work of an organization a member must understand how the organization 43

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operates. Understanding how to make a motion, how to amend motions presented by other members, and how to debate ideas are all an expectation of membership. In addition, understanding methods to adopt and amend meeting agendas, election procedures, and how to amend bylaws are additional responsibilities all members of an organization should educate themselves on. An individual who is knowledgeable and aware of such procedures adds value. Influence can be gained by direct input and by helping others process their thinking so that issues are fully explored. Decisions often impact underrepresented parties in unfavorable ways; parliamentary law correctly applied allows for mitigation of unfavorable impacts through fair engagement. Authoritative parliamentary manuals are useful in gaining a more complete understanding of parliamentary law. A parliamentary authority supplements, but never conflicts with, rules it is subordinate to. Developed organizations are governed by many rules. Constitutions, bylaws, and special rules of order can be refined over time to codify organizational understandings. Other rules of order (absent from the documents previously listed) may be adopted which are contained in a parliamentary authority. Only by reading a parliamentary authority in proper context can one fully understand the governance of an organization. Just as multiple dictionaries exist, so do many useful manuals containing rules of order for organizations to reference. Cannon states that “There is no single authority on the subject of parliamentary procedure and never has been, although Robert’s Rules of Order… many times revised, is comprehensive and the best known in America.”5 Many organizations have adopted the latest edition of “Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised” as their parliamentary authority which is a reliable reference for almost every circumstance an organization may encounter.6 Other authorities that an organization or individual may adopt and reference, include: the “American Institute of Parliamentarians Standard Code of Parliamentary Procedure”, “Demeter’s Manual of Parliamentary Law and Procedure: Blue Book edition”, “Cannon’s Concise Guide to Rules of Order”, and “Riddick’s Rules of Procedure: A Modern Guide to Faster and More Efficient Meetings” which are all capable of dealing with procedures for regular societies and organizations.7 The latest edition of “Mason’s Manual of Legislative Procedure” is suitable for reference in municipal legislatures across the United States and the latest 44

published editions of “Erskine May: Parliamentary Practice” and Bourinot’s “Rules of Order…” may be of use for legislative organizations respectively in the United Kingdom and Canada.8 “Parliamentary Practice: An Introduction to Parliamentary Law” and “Parliamentary Law: Bicentennial Edition” both provide further insight and clarity regarding parliamentary subjects.9 The impeachment trial of President Donald John Trump in the United States Senate provided a public display showcasing the significance of parliamentary law and debate. Following rules outlined in their parliamentary authority, “The Senate Manual containing the Standing Rules, Orders, Laws and Resolutions Affecting the Business of the United States Senate”, members of the Senate, managers from the House of Representatives, and the defense team carefully navigated procedures with the assistance of Chief Justice of the United States John Glover Roberts, Jr. (serving as presiding officer of the trial) and Parliamentarian of the United States Senate Elizabeth Coss MacDonough (serving as the parliamentary advisor to the presiding officer). Similar adherence to procedures is followed in meetings each day across the world by nonprofit boards, city councils, homeowner associations, fraternal orders, and many other organizations that use parliamentary law to conduct unique business before them. Often, due to lack of experience or confidence, members of such organizations allow transactions to be processed by more experienced members. This passive delegation of authority and voice is dangerous and counter to true advocacy. Even worse, some members with advanced knowledge may attempt to use their advantage in ways that limits the rights of other members. Leadership, with and without title, should ensure that parliamentary law is not used in a manner that limits the rights of others. “Parliamentary procedure should not be used to awe, entangle, or confuse the uninitiated. The rules should be used only to the extent necessary to observe the law, to expedite business, to avoid confusion, and to protect the rights of members.”10 “The goals of every member in a meeting should be to understand the issues, to debate freely those issues when debate is appropriate, to express their views clearly, and to make certain that their votes are counted correctly.”11 The importance of parliamentary law and procedure to leadership should not be underestimated. Parliamentary law aids leadership that is needed in all areas of our society and assists with the development of leaders. Gaining an understanding of parliamentary law can help ensure organizations are effective in processing business, completing objectives, and advocating on behalf of common interest. THE SPHINX

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Organizations become stronger when members are educated in rules of order; the membership improves internal functioning and can establish a leadership presence externally in a variety of supplementary organizations. “Ignorance of the rules and customs of deliberative assemblies is a heavy handicap to anyone who expects to influence the policy of a society.”12 Parliamentary procedure helps balance membership engagement and ensures diverse opinions and ideas are heard. Leaders who champion goodwill should become more familiar with available parliamentary resources in order to maximize organizational and individual advocacy impact. S

Brother Adrian Stratton, RP, MBA (Omicron Zeta Lambda 2008, Kappa Xi Lambda) is a Partner at GAACC Management Consulting. Brother Stratton is a member of the American Institute of Parliamentarians and is a Registered Parliamentarian credentialed by the National Association of Parliamentarians. He currently serves the Fraternity as Secretary of the AΦ A Standing Committee on Constitution and Parliamentarian of AΦ A Eastern Region, District III (New York State).

Notes 1. George Demeter, “Demeter’s Manual of Parliamentary Law and Procedure: Blue Book edition” (Boston: Little, Brown and Company, 1969), 5 2. General Henry M. Robert, “Parliamentary Practice: An Introduction to Parliamentary Law” (New York: The Century Company, 1921), xii 3. George Demeter, “Demeter’s Manual of Parliamentary Law and Procedure: Blue Book edition” (Boston: Little, Brown and Company, 1969), 5 4. George Demeter, “Demeter’s Manual of Parliamentary Law and Procedure: Blue Book edition” (Boston: Little, Brown and Company, 1969), 5 5. Hugh Cannon, “Cannon’s Concise Guide to Rules of Order” (Boston: Houghton Mifflin Company, 1992), xviii 6. “Robert’s Rules of Order New Revised” is currently in its 11th edition (Henry M. III Robert, Daniel H. Honemann, Thomas J. Balch, “Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised, 11th edition” (New York: PublicAffairs, 2011)), the 12th edition is scheduled for release in August 2020 7. American Institute of Parliamentarians, “American Institute of Parliamentarians Standard Code of Parliamentary Procedure” (New York: McGraw Hill Company, 2012), George Demeter, “Demeter’s Manual of Parliamentary Law and Procedure: Blue Book edition” (Little , Brown and Company, 1969), Hugh Cannon, “Cannon’s Concise Guide to Rules of Order” (Houghton Mifflin Company, 1992), and Floyd Riddick, Miriam Butcher, “Riddick’s Rules of Procedure: A Modern Guide to Faster and More Efficient Meetings” (Lanham, MD: Madison Books, 1991) 8. Paul Mason, “Mason’s Manual of Legislative Procedure” (Sacramento, CA: National Conference Of State Legislatures, 2010), Malcolm Jack, D. Natzler, Thomas May, “Erskine May: Parliamentary Practice 25th edition” (London: LexisNexis, 2019), and John George Bourinot, “Rules of Order Being a Canadian Manual on the Procedure at Meetings of Shareholders and Directors of Companies, Conventions, Societies and Public Assemblies Generally” (Toronto: McClelland & Stewart, 1924) 9. Henry M. Robert, “Parliamentary Practice: An Introduction to Parliamentary Law” (New York: The Century Company, 1921), and Henry M. Robert, “Parliamentary Law: Bicentennial Edition” (New York: Irvington, 1975) are both excellent books to increase general parliamentary knowledge but were not created to be adopted as a parliamentary authority for an organization. 10. American Institute of Parliamentarians, “American Institute of Parliamentarians Standard Code of Parliamentary Procedure” (New York: McGraw Hill Company, 2012), 7 11. Hugh Cannon, “Cannon’s Concise Guide to Rules of Order” (Boston: Houghton Mifflin Company, 1992), 51 12. General Henry M. Robert, “Parliamentary Practice: An Introduction to Parliamentary Law” (New York: The Century Company, 1921), xiii

SPRING 2020

POLITICAL IDEOLOGY & ACTION

BY BROTHER WALTER T. TILLMAN, JR., PH.D.

COVID-19 SHOWS PROMISSORY NOTE LINGERS IN DEFAULT: HBCUS AS A SOLUTION FOR AMERICA’S POLICY AND SOCIAL ILLS

n 1963, Brother Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. went to the nation’s capital to address Congress about a defaulted debt. He asserted that Blacks had been given a “promissory note” that was in fact a bad check. His assertion that the American Dream about inalienable rights and equity had not been made applicable to the progeny of Africans brought to this land of freedom manacled by slavery and subsequent systemic oppression which continues to this day. COVID-19 has made clear that America’s debt is still outstanding. It is often said that: “when America

gets a cold, Black folks get pneumonia.” COVID-19 has demonstrated in stark terms the truth of that statement. Recent Associate Press analysis found that of over 21,500 victims whose demographic data was known and disclosed by officials, more than 6,350 were Black - nearly 30%. This is problematic because Blacks account for only 14.2% of the 241 million people who live in the areas covered. This reality is embedded in the systemic structures and struggles that impede America’s advancement towards equity for all. However, America does

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have some homegrown institutions of opportunity uniquely positioned to address the systemic inequities that create the NSF on America’s promissory note. They are the nation’s 100+ historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). HBCUs remain uniquely positioned to lead the nation in dismantling systemic structures and processes that protect and perpetuate inequities. HBCUs are positioned to utilize cultural capital to promote equitable public health during this pandemic and beyond.

Utilize Cultural Capital Created over 100 years ago to provide opportunity for those legally locked out of education, HBCUs maintain a cultural credibility that uniquely positions them to address systemic struggles and processes that impede equity. These institutions are managed, staffed and serve persons whose recent data makes clear are disproportionately impacted by COVID 19. HBCUs have credibility in Black communities that enable them to identify issues that matter and develop initiatives and remedies that address the particular community’s needs. HBCUs, often located in economically disadvantaged spaces, are members of the communities they serve – not outsiders seeking to make a quick buck nor well-intentioned activists/philanthropists trying to treat the symptoms, but painfully unaware of the underlying problems. Additionally, many Black influencers (teachers, preachers, lawyers, doctors, businessmen, etc.) are HBCU alumni. This provides a built-in network to share and retrieve information. This network when efficaciously, ethically and efficiently used will produce exponential positive outcomes. Also, noting that change is often the activity of the young - students currently studying at HBCUs can be deployed into local communities with minimal cost or disruption.

Promote Public Health COVID-19 is a public health crisis. It disproportionately impacts Blacks. Modern research has made it clear that healing is enhanced when patient and provider share cultural bonds. Nonetheless, there is a dearth of minority healthcare professionals. Noonan, Lindong, and Jaitley (2013) assert that people of color are disproportionately

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represented in health professions – more than 25% of the total population, but only 10% of health professionals. A 2008 study showed that only 4.9 % of registered nurses were Black. As important as addressing the low number of minority healthcare providers is, there is a general shortage in qualified health care professionals, as well. In fact, the Health Resources and Services Administration estimated that the shortage of nurses would reach 29% this year. At the same time the shortage continues healthcare programs are turning away students because of limited training capacity. These realities provide an opportunity for impactful investment in health affiliated programs at HBCUs. As Noonan, Lindong, and Jaitley state (2013) that “we must recognize HBCUs as a valuable resource for educating underrepresented groups as health professionals. Increasing resources and enhancing support for building the capacity of HBCUs to produce health professionals is vital to addressing disparities and achieving health equity for our nation.”

Conclusion Founded before Dr. King went to Washington to ask Congress to pay its promissory note, HBCUs have historically done much with little. According to Brother Reverend Dr. M Christopher Brown II and Dr. Ronyelle Ricard, while constituting less than 5% of higher education institutions in the United States, HBCUs graduate 28% of all Blacks who earn an undergraduate degree and over 50% of Black school teachers in public schools. America has a problem! COVID-19 has made clear the systemic inequities that exist. America also has a solution – Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Significant investment in institutional and individual infrastructures at HBCUs is good for America! S

Brother Reverend Walter T. Tillman, Jr., Ph.D., an empowerment advocate and second generation educator, chairs Alpha Phi Alpha’s Global HBCU Task for and serves as the special assistant to the chancellor of the Southern University Law Center (SULC) and adjunct professor of education policy and advocacy at the Nelson Mandela College of Government and Social Sciences at Southern University and A & M College (SUBR).

FEATURE

BY BROTHER VIC CARTER

A CHARGE TO KEEP

BROTHER BRIGADIER GENERAL CHARLES MCGEE

early 90 years ago, Brother Charles Edward McGee was caught in class doing something he should not have. His behavior earned him a disapproving admonishment from his teacher and, most assuredly, at minimum, a stern lecture from his A.M.E. minister father, the Reverend Lewis Allen McGee. His nimble fingers were stealthily folding, creasing, crimping, and transforming ordinary notebook paper into a whole new creation. With precision and accuracy, he raised his

invention above his head and gave it a quick shove to see if the laws of aerodynamics and velocity would give way to a short flight across the classroom. It did. Little did he know, however, that this classroom prank would one day lead him to the most powerful room in the world, the Oval Office of the White House, but what transpired in between those two events is an even greater story. At 100 years old, Brother Honorary Brigadier General Charles Edward McGee still walks THE SPHINX

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with a soldier’s swagger. He may not move a quickly as he used to, but he has the upright posture of a battle-tested veteran whose eyes have seen the world, often from the cockpit of a fighter jet. Over three decades, this former Tuskegee Airman flew 409 combat missions in three wars. He saw battle in World War II, The Korean War, and the Vietnam War. He is highly decorated. Military records document that he earned the Distinguished Flying Cross, Legion of Merit, Bronze Star, Air Medal, and the Presidential Unit Citation. In 2007, former President George W. Bush presented him with the Congressional Gold Medal. His name appears in the National Aviation Hall of Fame. In January 2020, President Donald Trump elevated him to the level of Brigadier General, pinning silver stars to his lapels in an Oval Office ceremony. That same evening, he rose to thunderous applause that reverberated through the halls and the mighty dome of the United States Capitol as he was recognized during the State of the Union Address. Brother McGee is rightfully proud of his accomplishments. Still, he is equally impressive for the humility he displays and his never-ending desire to make a difference in the lives of most anyone he meets, from the mighty to the meek. Since learning of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. in college, Brother McGee became enamored with the history and the aims of the Fraternity. He sees himself in each of the principles of Alpha and often remarks on how his life mirrors Alpha in thought, words, and deeds. His eyes beheld the brilliant light of Alpha on a cold Sunday, December 1, 1940. He has maintained an unbroken chain of membership across three chapters, which span 80 years. Tau, where he was initiated at the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, Beta Lambda in Kansas City, and now Iota SPRING 2020

Upsilon Lambda in Montgomery County, Maryland. He is Life Member #213, and when asked about his pledge experience at Tau Chapter, he would only say with a slight

chuckle, “I don’t know if I ever really finished counting all the bricks on the wall of the stadium.” Brother McGee’s life, while punctuated with stellar accomplishments and accolades from the highest levels of the United States government, has also been a life of struggle, challenges that faced every black man of his era. Life was not perfect. When Brother McGee was one and a half years old, his mother, Ruth Elizabeth Lewis McGee, died during the birth of his sister. His father was faced with the stark and jarring reality of being a single father who, as an African Methodist Episcopal minister, would be moved from city to city when the denomination demanded. He grew up in the Midwest, where racism was 49

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prevalent, but people there knew how to cope. Their expectations were never really elevated, but they managed to press on, despite the challenges they faced. He lived through the Great Depression of 1929. Regardless of the circumstances, Brother McGee was a survivor. He was inquisitive and loved to learn. Accepted for admission at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, he majored in engineering, which supported his desire to fly. There he joined the Pershing Rifles - a precision drill team, all the while awaiting the call to serve - the draft. His number was never called, and in some ways, he was thankful for that because he knew that had his draft designation been selected, he would not be where he wanted to be. “The draft wasn’t pulling my number,” he says. “Occasionally, they had to pull people’s 50

number, but still skipped me. But had they, I would have been on my belly, on the ground with a rifle in the mud within a month.” America needed more soldiers, more firepower on land, at sea, and in the air as it joined allied forces in the deadliest war on the planet. More than 75 million people lost their lives in the conflict, many of them civilians who died at the hand of Adolph Hitler in The Holocaust. One hundred million fighters were engaged in the war involving 30 countries. Back on the campus of the University of Illinois, Brother McGee learned of a program called “The Civilian Pilot Training Program,” which gave access to women and Black soldiers. It was, in part, in response to a November 10, 1925 memorandum prepared for the Chief of Staff by Major General Hanson Edward Ely, Jr., who was THE SPHINX

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commandant of The War College. The memo was mainly a character assassination of Negro soldiers called to duty in World War I, their combat readiness, their intelligence, and their ability to serve various roles in active duty. Brother McGee remembers it well. “In paragraph 4 on the first page, says facts bearing on the problem Negroes could physically qualify. The Negroes are mentally inferior to the white man and morally inferior to the white man etc., etc. Therefore, could not be relied on to do anything technical... is not capable of maintaining or flying an airplane. We can cook food, dig ditches, wash dishes, build roads, and drive trucks, but maintain and fly airplanes…impossible! They claimed they had studied the issue, but looking back on history; maybe they studied the use of the Negro under white leadership during World War I. But they didn’t include what the Harlem Hell fighters did in France; didn’t look at Bessie Coleman’s history, who had to go to France in the 1920s to get aviation experience.” Coleman, a native Atlantan, was the first African American and first Native American SPRING 2020

woman to become a pilot. After her training, she came back to America and performed aerial stunts at shows to encourage more women to become pilots. The 1925 War College memo was damning to the Negro soldier and had it been believed, would have kept them from ever entering World War II in any capacity other than manual labor. Some of the quotes from the report, include: “Compared to the white man, he is admittedly of inferior mentality. He is inherently weak in character.” “The Negro is physically qualified for combat duty. He is by nature, subservient and believes himself to be inferior to the white man, He cannot control himself in the fear of danger to the extent the white man can.” “In the past wars, the Negro has made a fair laborer, but an inferior technician. As a fighter, he has been inferior to the white man, even when led by white officers.” “Negro officers should not be placed over white officers, noncommissioned officers or soldiers.” 51

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This memo was kindling for the fire that burned and surged through the bones of Charles McGee. Never before was there more determination to prove someone wrong. Still, he was not alone. This courageous soldier took off for Tuskegee, Alabama, to be trained to fly, with what would become a preeminent aerial fighter group that eventually became known as “The Red Tails” - The Tuskegee Airmen - the 99th. The creation of this unit was, some say, a political move by President Franklin Delano Roosevelt, who sought and got support from Negro voters. He did so, defying the War College report that aimed to defile Black soldiers. The first groups of Tuskegee Airmen were mechanics, who were trained at a technical school in Illinois. Their success in mastering skills was ahead of schedule. Brother McGee remembers it well. “They were expected to fail. They didn’t. They had top grades. They even tested twice, because somebody couldn’t believe the scores they made with the first testing. The Army’s top brass saw this and couldn’t believe it. They said, ‘Oh my God. We need an airfield for the pilot training program.’” Because this program was mandated to be segregated, the Tuskegee Airmen could not use any of the dozens of airfields that already existed, nor could the Army allow a Negro pilot to give commands to a white mechanic. This group needed a place of their own. Like many other soon to be army fliers, Brother McGee was astounded at the lengths the military went through to keep black and white soldiers apart, even in a time of war. 52

“They found $4 million to build Tuskegee Army Airfield. So mechanics trained, went south, back to the airfield, waiting for Tuskegee airmen pilots. The 99th started its training in the January time frame of ‘41 and were combat-ready December ‘42. The Army didn’t know what to do because no white commander wanted them.” General Benjamin O. Davis did. He was the Air Force’s first African American general. He fought for his squadrons to be called into combat, to prove that their skills were exceptional and equal to white fighter pilots. The 99th was relegated to missions far from the front lines. Some of them were deployed to North Africa, but even there, they endured the same segregation they experienced at home. Their missions were successful, although it was not air-to-air combat. They were assigned to bombing targets deemed strategic to the enemy. Finally, in May of 1942, the Tuskegee Airmen were called into the service for which they had trained so hard. They were the 99th Pursuit Squadron and 332nd Fighter Group and were tasked to protect bombers that were assigned to destroy ground support for Hitler’s Army. Squadron after squadron of white piloted units was assigned to the bombers escort mission many of them lost their lives, their planes, and the bombers they were assigned to protect. During World War Two, 12,037 attackers were shot down. Every plane lost represented ten American lives. The 99th in their agile P-39 Cobras flew over 1500 missions. Not one of the bombers they escorted was lost. Brother Charles McGee remembers one task where he was assigned to escort. On that morning, several German THE SPHINX

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planes confronted the American airships and were prepared to engage the convoy. Magee was on the far right side of the escort. The Germans saw the P-39 begin to move in to attack them. One of them had penetrated deep into the convoy and was preparing to fire. McGee went after him. The infiltrator tried to dive to escape from their 22-thousand feet altitude. Brother McGee: “…it was really an element of training. And when that happened, he made a wrong turn because it put him right in my gun sight.” In this case, they thought they could dive away from us, and it didn’t work. We were able to dive in behind them.” Brother McGee sent the German fighter hurtling to the ground. It was his first kill. When he was not engaged in air-to-air combat, Brother McGee was assigned to strafe oil fields and airports where enemy planes were at the ready for attack. Time after time, targets were lined up in his sights. Brother McGee was involved in destroying resources on the ground, crippling an airbase, and costing Germany immeasurably. Throughout the conflict, The Tuskegee Airmen destroyed 150 planes, shot down 112, and damaged 148 fighters. They decimated 1000 trains and SPRING 2020

railway cars, motor vehicles and 40 barges and boats. These “Untrainable” pilots proved themselves to be invaluable to the war effort. After the sudden death of President Franklin D. Roosevelt, newly sworn-in President Harry S. Truman desegregated the United States Armed Forces in 1948 based partly on the success of the 99th. It was, however, not the end of racism. Brother Charles McGee does not readily accept praise and recognition for his accomplishments. He says while honored to be recognized, he would much rather have the attention go to the mechanics and other support staff that made it possible for the Tuskegee Airmen to carry out their missions. He does, however, look at his victories as their victories as well. Just recently, some of his missions became declassified, and he can talk about them. He is most proud of his assignment in Yugoslavia. “It was those partisans in Yugoslavia that protected many downed airmen, keeping them out of German hands. Missions to bring them home were designed. First, we stripped-down B-17s, and then they prepared an airstrip unbeknownst to the Germans.” He goes on to 53

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say, “Our group was one of the escort groups, bringing them back home, if you will, out of Yugoslavia.” Thirty-three Tuskegee Airmen were among the thousands of American pilots who shot down. Thousands became prisoners of war others and were concealed in secret locations. Once the war was over, and during the height of the Civil Rights Movement, Charles McGee was abroad, still serving his country at military bases around the world. He was not immune to discrimination and racism but chose to fight it differently. His fellow fliers and other enlisted men and women came home to a country that still treated them as second-class citizens. They had fought for their country, had saved lives overseas and protected American interests, but could not live, eat, or go to the school where they wanted. They joined efforts to change their homeland and were the catalyst for another war, this one for civil rights. Brother Charles McGee worked to also worked to change the lives of others and to inspire them, eventually returning to the United States and holding a variety of jobs, including running the Kansas City Airport. Brother McGee says his nearly 80 years in Alpha are fueled by the tenets which define us as an organization. Also, this former Boy Scout continues to live by the principles of scouting.

Boy Scouts in his home and offering words of wisdom and support. “We need to be mentoring the young folks who are our countries future,” he says. “There’s much out there that they don’t need or sticking them in the wrong direction. And if we have the opportunity, I tell everybody, if there’s nobody in the family, maybe a youngster next door or down the street, just be careful in your approach this day and age, they’re out there, and they needed. And we need to provide it. And I tell my kids there are four Ps. Perceive, prepare, perform, and persevere. Dream your dreams. Find out what your talents are. Find something you like to do. You don’t want to go to work doing something you don’t like. You probably know your talents. Prepare. Get a good education. Learn to read, write, and speak well. I say that because now some kids are coming out, don’t even know how to use a pencil and sign their name. But get that education and develop those talents. Perform. Always doing your best. Excellence is your goal in everything.” When asked if he has words of advice for his Fraternity Brothers, he delivered a powerful message born out of the roots of Alpha. “I’d say stand tall,” he says. “And still, realize that to be first of all, we must be servants of all. And by servants of all, we need mentoring and bringing those along behind us for high ideals.” S

“A Scout is trustworthy, loyal, helpful, friendly, courteous, kind, obedient, cheerful, thrifty, brave, clean, and reverent.”

Brother Vic Carter is the senior anchor for CBS WJZ-TV in Baltimore, MD, a position he has held for 25 years. He is

At 100 years old, Brother McGee is showing no signs of slowing down. He has been crisscrossing the country from the White House to the Super Bowl, to entertaining

a Peabody Award-Winning Journalist who has been of service to Alpha since 1978 and is the owner of Lee-Com Media, L.L.C.

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BY BROTHER AMBASSADOR HORACE DAWSON

TRUMP FOREIGN POLICY REVISITED

n early 2018, two years and slightly more under President Donald J. Trump, the World Policy Council undertook to assess the Administration and its performance in world affairs. The key sentence in the Executive Summary of the Council Report reads as follows, “The Council is concerned that President Trump’s policy initiatives and undiplomatic handling of allies and competitors alike have compromised our country’s international position.” Further on, the President is “viewed negatively by governments and populations . . . around the globe (Israel and Russia are notable exceptions).” And in considering a series of foreign policy initiatives, such as immigration, Middle East peace, climate change, and nuclear energy, the Council Report criticizes the Administration for numerous shortcomings in its dealings with NATO partners and other countries. Especially noted as well was the side-lining of professional diplomats and minimizing the role of the State Department generally in the implementation of foreign policy.

The Novel Coronavirus Crisis The present “update” comes with less than eight months remaining before the general election. This means nearly three and a half Trump years in the White House, a period encompassing a year and a half since the previous evaluation, but also including the impeachment. Although one of the two charges in that event focused on foreign affairs - and will be discussed later - the existing novel coronavirus crisis has its own relevance to Presidential and the Administration’s performance and behavior. The fact that Beijing delayed warning the U.S. of the existence of the virus is well known, even well documented. However, equally well known, and documented also, is U.S. counter-intelligence knowledge of its existence and that Service’s own alert to the USG. Thus, the question is a modification of the one made famous by Senator Baker – when did the President know about the existence of the coronavirus and when did he take action to protect the American public from its spread and impact? As the issue does indeed possess foreign policy implications, it is certainly relevant to the present evaluation as is the broad range of issues mentioned in the opening paragraph above. By all accounts – and by now they are many – U.S. government officials were slow to recognize the SPRING 2020

seriousness of the problem. This was followed by delay in responding to it and even further by the tepid nature of the response. With the virus moving swiftly to this and to several other countries, it was clear to many, not so the U.S., that a crisis was at hand. Tardiness by U.S. government officials in recognizing the seriousness of the problem and even more by a tragic delay in making a response once it became known are well documented facts. Whether greater blame lies with the White House or with lawmakers can be debated. Not at all debatable, however, are the serious damage to the country caused by the delayed recognition and the tepid American response once the crisis was known. Also, attempts in the early stages to minimize the crisis are reflected in President Trump’s claims of the administration having this issue “well under control.” In fact, the President was the trumpeter of this point of view even later with experts on television surrounding him but reluctant to contradict him. The truth is that the U.S. was not prepared for the virus crisis. The President’s prediction in February that the number of virus cases in the U.S. would soon be “down to close to zero” indicates not only the lack of information regarding the nature of the threat but also no hint as to its seriousness. Indeed, the danger was hardly taken seriously at all by Trump, suspicious of information from an intelligence corps he felt out to undermine him, or by his administration. This meant a time-wasting casualness in the pursuit of information and hardly any sense of urgency as storm warnings continued to gather. Indeed, the President’s suggestion of the spread of “something like the flu” as more serious danger-signs circulated created confusion as to what might be expected. By the middle of March, especially in the light of virus-related casualties taking place in Seattle, New York, California, and Italy, the pandemic was drawing attention too serious to be ignored. The task force appointed by the president and headed by Vice President Pence was collecting accurate and useful information on the crisis and reporting on the government response in daily televised news briefings. During one such briefing, President Trump declared the country as at war with the coronavirus and himself as “commander” although he continued to waiver from time to time as to his estimate of its scale and the amount of time and resources needed to devote to it. 55

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For example, although the President led the daily television briefings on the virus, his focus was not on the severity of the pandemic but on the “incredible” job administration officials were performing in getting medical supplies and services to state and local governments. He questioned the size of equipment and supply orders from governors (mainly Democrats), often accusing them of a lack of gratitude; argued with reporters who queried him on information (often wrong) he was providing on government services); and continually insisted that adequate testing and other medical equipment were available “to every American who needs it”. Of course, hospital ventilators were an exception, but they were being located, “borrowed,” purchased, manufactured, and delivered to needed locations with record speed, Trump asserted. For this and other shortcomings, the previous administration was at fault, the president said repeatedly. “They left us in terrible shape. Terrible.” Meanwhile, the virus was spreading relentlessly, increasing the infection rate and with it more and more deaths each day. Strains on hospitals and their anticipated needs, testing, medical equipment and supplies, protective gear, etc., continued throughout the country as the virus began to appear in all states and territories. At the urging of health professionals, a reluctant President finally decreed later in March a closing of schools and businesses. Soon afterward, “social distancing” policies came into effect. As the numbers of the infected and dying persons increased toward the end of March and early April, infectious disease experts on the president’s virus task force began to talk in terms of a death rate of between 150,000 and 240,000 Americans. The President’s hope for a “re-opened America; ready for business by Easter” fell by the wayside under the onslaught of a nationwide “stay at home” policy for all Americans As this is being written (April 4, 2020), the number of virus related deaths in New York has risen to more than 2,800; the number of infected individuals in the U.S. to over 53,000, and the number of coronavirus related deaths in the country to just over 7,000. Schools and businesses are closed, and except in a few instances, individuals in the states are under social distance orders to interact only within six feet of each other and to congregate in groups of no more than ten individuals at a time. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention two days ago reversed itself and advised all individuals in the U.S. to wear face masks when in public. Although he announced the CDC guidance on masks publicly 56

on national television, President Trump noted that the recommended policy is advisory only and that he is not likely to follow it. Failure to recognize the dangers for the U.S. inherent in the novel coronavirus outbreak, and the failure to act on the problem sooner represent glaring U.S, government shortcomings. Attempts for such a long time to minimize its importance were equally devastating. In all, the Washington Post in a carefully researched piece chronicles 70 days of “denial, delays, and dysfunction” on the part of the government as the president continually dismissed the virus as on a level with the flu and the administration scrambled ineptly to contain it. Much of the confusion within the general public is attributed to the president’s uninformed statements on the potential impact of the virus and the increasing evidence and warnings from the professionals of an approaching disaster. As it arrived, first in Seattle and even more devastatingly in New York, the Trump administration was not prepared to deal with it and lost precious time trying to prepare the country to do so. Accordingly, the United States suffered greatly in loss of life, treasure, and reputation as world leader.

The Impeachment Although the novel coronavirus phenomenon at present eclipses in magnitude almost all other events, it is important in this evaluation to review major issues bearing elements of international significance taking place within the administration over the past three plus years. At least two factors place the impeachment in this category: 1) the charge of Russian interference in the 2016 election, and 2) the charge of the president’s attempt to coerce Ukraine into investigating the Biden’s to Trump’s political advantage in the up-coming general election. The election issue requires no further consideration, having been successfully adjudicated in the courts’ incident to the Mueller investigation. Both guilty pleas and verdicts at trial were rendered without serious questioning of authenticity. The impeachment, however, will no doubt go down as one of the most controversial events in American history. Whereas this evaluation is in no position to question the fairness of the senate trial or its verdict - although slightly more than half the country does so - much of the testimony in the trial impinged on international affairs issues and related presidential behavior which must be taken into account. For example, the president ordered members of his administration, including civil servants, foreign service employees, and political appointees not to provide THE SPHINX

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relevant information to or testify before the congress or the courts. The very serious constitutional issues raised here remain unresolved. Another question is what of punishment imposed on those, especially those in foreign service, who refused to carry out the president’s orders? There were “real time” examples of this in the impeachment trial, which led subsequently to firings, transfers, and other forms of punishment. The President’s most recent firing in that regard was that of Michael Atkinson, the Intelligence community inspector general, who informed Congress of a whistleblower complaint which led to the impeachment. At the heart of the impeachment, which failed in the Republican led Senate, was the charge of the President’s attempting to pressure Ukrainian officials to conduct investigations of corruption on former Vice President Joseph Biden and his son, Hunter Biden. The former vice president is expected to be Trump’s opponent in the up-coming general election. Various public officials, notably the U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine and her successor in that position, defied presidential orders and testified before the House committee and at the Senate trial as to Presidential wrongdoing in the matter. By vote, Senate Republicans, on the other hand, prohibited the appearance at trial of other witnesses with direct knowledge of and even participation in the events. They then went on to acquit the President on both counts. Since well before the beginning of his presidency, Trump had shown little respect for the experts (especially including those in the intelligence community) and tended to substitute his own judgment for theirs. Right wing conspiracy theories of “deep state” operatives in the justice and state departments out to “get” him appeared to dominate the Trump mind-set, accounting for the disdain the president holds for those government department although both are now headed by extreme Trump loyalist appointees. In the view of the President, it was a cabal of “Trump haters” in Justice and State who engineered the impeachment “hoax”, which Trump is determined to avenge. At least seven state and defense department officers are believed to have been “reassigned” already in connection with this event. More officers are said to be on President Trump’s retaliation list but with no hope of protection from Secretary of State Michael Pompeo or the Justice Department. SPRING 2020

With Trump now forever to be known as only the third President in U.S. history to be impeached, no matter the verdict in the trial, he can hardly be said to have distinguished himself. Yet to be answered also are the various constitutional issues raised by his conduct at the center of the action. Apart from the heroism of those who risked their careers to testify in the senate trial, this event is likely to become known as one without plaudits.

The Middle East and India In the earlier evaluation referred to in this essay, the midterm, Israel, and Russia were said to be two countries harboring favorable views of the Trump Administration. To those, a third – India – must be added. It is the country which warmly welcomed the American president on an elaborate state visit in March 2020. School children lined the streets of New Delhi; cabinet members and the nation’s elite filled the halls; and the nation generally, with its symbols of modernization on proud display, enthusiastically greeted the president and first lady on this combined red carpet business and pleasure trip. Trump did not, however, accomplish agreement as had been hoped on major trade issues; and with the coronavirus crisis erupting in Washington, resulting in a tanking stock market, the visit ended abruptly with the party taking off somewhat early for home. That less than satisfactory result may well symbolize the situation in the Middle East where the administration came into office anticipating a major victory in accomplishing peace between Arabs, and Israelis. The much-anticipated peace plan drawn up by the special envoy, President Trump’s son in law, Jared Kushner, has yet to surface. That may be just as well as in the wake of the President’s recognizing Jerusalem as Israel’s capital, the Palestinians have refused any discussion of the peace initiative. And there the matter rests but with tensions still high and no meetings scheduled. In that especially volatile part of the world, no issue is more tense than the feud between the U.S. and Iran, with its heavy influence in both Iraq and Syria. Since withdrawing from the nuclear deal with Iran, calling it “one of the worse deals ever”, and accusing Iran even so of violating its terms, President Trump has been imposing heavy economic sanctions on that country, trying in more recent rounds to force Iran to comply with the treaty’s terms or to bring the country to its knees economically. Neither goal has been achieved, and Iran, although suffering economically, has resumed its nuclear explorations and continued its troublesome outreach in neighboring countries. 57

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A more likely success, but still not entirely certain at this point, is another major goal of the administration – ending the war in Afghanistan and bringing home most of the American troops remaining in that country. Although two recent sessions between the U.S. and the Taliban have met with failure, it seems clear that last minute demands of the newly elected Afghan government are at issue. If, and when, these obstacles are overcome, administration can claim credit for ending the longest war in U.S. history. But here again, the matter remains at this point in abeyance.

In Asia The “war” with China is of a very different nature.’ It is a trade war with each country imposing high tariffs on goods from the other, targeting points of greatest vulnerability. Charging that the U.S. was being “ripped off” constantly, President Trump started the conflict over a year and a half ago by clapping high tariffs on a huge assortment of Chinese goods and threatening to go even further. Unexpectedly, China responded in kind, adding agricultural products to the list when President Trump carried out his threat. Although something of a partial and temporary cease fire was negotiated leading up to Christmas 2019, the hoped for major deal with Chairman Xi which President Trump expected prior to the 2020 election has yet to materialize. This, together with the coronavirus debacle, is by no means good news for Trump who had expected to base his re-election campaign on a booming U.S. economy. Nor has the President’s hope for a far more favorable relationship with North Korea come to pass. Such an improvement would have included elimination of Kim Jong Un’s nuclear weapons program in exchange for foreign assistance and favorable trade relations as well as friendlier ties with the South. Trump’s much heralded trip to the DMZ when with a few symbolic steps he became the first American president to “visit” North Korea, was supposed to be a harbinger of things to come. Since then, however, there has been little actual contact between the two countries, and North Korea, while it has not launched any more long ranged missiles, has been highly critical of the U.S. as “arrogant” and a “bully” and as a country without respect for others. There appears to be no present plans for the resumption of negotiations nor even the renewal of contacts.

In the Americas Over the past several months, the United States, Canada, and Mexico finally completed the signing of the new North American Free Trade Agreement which had been in process since President Trump unilaterally withdrew from the original soon after entering the White House. Experts observe that the difference 58

between the two was hardly worth the effort and that the three countries are continuing commercial and trade ties largely as before. The Trump administration focus instead has been largely on immigration where policies and government actions have significantly slowed the flow of illegal immigrants into the U.S. On the other hand, what appears to have been a major Trump Administration miscalculation in a political crisis has led to a serious U.S. setback in Venezuela, among the most virulent of U.S hemispheric neighbors. The prospect of replacing that country’s Russian back socialist leader, President Nicolas Maduro with the more democratically oriented Juan Guaido, National Assembly President, was seen from the start as a promising Trump objective. Various levels of support flowed into Caracas from outside the country, including, unofficially, from the United States. Despite what was seen as widespread unrest within Venezuela, however, Maduro prevailed in the election, which the U.S. and various other nations deemed fraudulent. Nonetheless, with that mandate and the backing of the military, Maduro holds on to power, although the United States and more than fifty other nations regard Guaido as Venezuela’s rightful leader.

Conclusions As the general election of 2020 looms, it is difficult to credit President Trump and his administration for much that is noteworthy in foreign policy and international affairs. The forgoing review chronicles various ambitious efforts but little that has been accomplished. Indeed, the needless loss of so many American lives; the ineptitude on display throughout the ordeal; and, finally, the shameful attempt to cast blame on others for American failings in connection with the novel coronavirus pandemic burden the legacy of a president and an administration already badly damaged by impeachment. It is true, of course, that goals abroad were set at the beginning of the administration; efforts were both envisioned and undertaken; but for the most part, expected results tend to have been either abandoned along the way or are said to be pending. Improvements in U.S. relations in the Middle East and in China are major examples. With six months to go, there is still time for the situation to change, and it is more than likely that President Trump hopes this will be the case, especially in trade with China and in the nuclear disarmament area with North Korea. However, time is running out, especially with the coronavirus disrupting all planned scheduled developments, and with that “enemy”, as Trump has termed it, showing no disposition to depart the stage. In short, where international affairs and foreign policy are concerned, President Trump and his administration score negatively or hardly at all in the realm of accomplishments. THE SPHINX

INTERNATIONAL

BY BROTHER GERALD SHERMAN

BUILDING A MORE PERFECT CONTINENT: THE AFRICA WE WANT

continent” characterized by starvation, diseases, horrible epidemics, tribal anarchy, war, poverty, flagrant corruption, incompetent leadership, managerial ineptitude, as well as political instability.

Bold descriptions of the “Hopeless Continent,” proliferates coverages and provokes commentary that the new millennium has brought more disaster than hope. Africa is labeled as the needy, “dark

This dominant representation of Africa usually ignores the actualities and specificities of social, political, and economic processes that are deployed to address the challenges, albeit with mixed results. The success stories nonetheless which represent the Africa we want are often ignored or drowned out by the louder conversations in the global public square. For some in the global public square many of the 54 countries across the continent are a lost cause; not worth their time; and cannot be a valuable part of a global decision making.

frica today is still widely portrayed by a lack of in-depth and nuanced reporting on the continent and beyond. Much of the continent’s portrayal is characterized by problematic stereotypes that still dominate the perception of the continent across all its 54 countries. This depiction has persisted since the late 19th Century during the era of slavery and colonialism. The centuries-old representation is not only a loss to the more than 1.3 billion Africans across the continent; it is also a loss to the world at large.

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INTERNATIONAL

The legacy of building a more perfect Africa pre-dates the 21st Century with notable standouts: • Emergence of the first kingdom Aksum (Axum) in the 2nd century AD making Ethiopia the oldest independent country in Africa. • The ancient civilization of Egypt which emerged 5000 years ago and reached its peak in the 16th century. • Africa’s oldest constitutional republic modeled after the United States – founded in Liberia, West Africa in 1847 – over 170 years ago with the country’s first 9 Presidents, all being of African American descent and born in America. • The first sub-Saharan African country to gain its independence from European colonization – Ghana, in 1957. • The formation of a democratic government in South Africa that ended Apartheid, the country’s harsh, institutionalized system of racial segregation and gave us a President Nelson Mandela and the 2nd largest economy in Africa. • The Africa we want must be drawn to things that stand out, not things that fit in: • Despite being a continent portrayed as war ravaged, only 15 of the 54 countries are involved in war or experiencing post-war conflict and tension. • Significant progress over the years have bolstered constitutional and political changes and reforms in many countries compelling the holding of elections and granting of civil, economic, social, and political freedoms. • During 1996 till 2006, about 44 elections were conducted in sub-Saharan Africa; and between 2005 and 2007, about 26 presidential and 28 parliamentary elections were held. In most of the 54 countries, elections are being held in keeping with elected terms. • The world’s second-fastest growing economy – 2017, the African Development Bank • Over the last twenty years, tripled GDP; doubled real average incomes; almost halved infant mortality rates; increase literacy rates by 8 percentage points – accounting for 136 million more being able to read and write. • Life expectancy has increased by more than 10 years and is expected to increase by another five years by 2030. • Combined GDP likely to surpass $2.2 trillion,

making it equal to the eighth largest economy in the world. • Newly minted Africa Continental Free Trade (AFCTA) expected to increase intra-African trade upward of 50 percent within just a few years. • Predicted USD $2.1 trillion in consumer spending within the next 5 years by 2025 – fueled by a young consumer class that is as highly prized as ever. • The world’s youngest population with almost 60% of Africa’s 1.3 billion population under the age of 25. The portrayal of Africa from centuries-old representation has outlived its usefulness given the social, economic, and political growth and development across the continent. It is a cliché to say nobody is perfect. This holds true for politics and governance in the rest of the world as it does for Africa. Aligning Africa’s politics and governance to address the imperfections across the continent, instead of hiding them, does not drive people from Africa. It draws people to Africa. The imperfections are relatable. They humanize Africa and they encourage people to connect with countries across Africa in ways they will never connect with other countries. Politics and good governance in Africa ensure for all of us – the Africa we want. S

Brother Gerald Sherman is member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. Joined December 2, 1984 – Gamma Psi Chapter – Saint Augustine’s University, Raleigh, North Carolina – serving as then Chapter’s Reporter to The Sphinx Magazine. He is also a charter member of Rho Phi Lambda Chapter – Johannesburg, South Africa and a re-charter member of Eta Epsilon Lambda – Monrovia, Liberia – West Africa. He has advised and worked with Presidential and Legislative campaigns across Africa – in Liberia, Malawi, and South Africa respectively. He is President and Chief Executive Officer of The Raising Africa Group LLC., a wholly Liberian owned holding company which holds portfolio companies in businesses across Media, Advertising & Entertainment; Strategic Communications; Management Consulting; Advisory Services and Government Relations.

THE SPHINX

BROTHERS ON THE MOVE

BROTHER DAVID TYSON SETTLES VOTING RIGHTS ACT LAWSUIT CHANGES HOW BOARD MEMBERS ARE ELECTED

ormer Richardson ISD school board member, Brother David Tyson Jr., the only Black man ever elected to the board, sued the district two years ago saying the at-large system disadvantaged people of color, and won. Last year, the Dallas Morning News recognized him as one of Texas’ ‘top citizen watchdogs.’

at-large seats. And the board agreed to take further open government training. In the settlement a November 2019 election was called by the board to fill one of the opportunity district places for District 4, and an African American female was elected. She currently serves on the RISD

“The newly drawn districts will hopefully result in a board that is a closer reflection of diverse and inclusive communities and families that the RISD serves,” Tyson said in a prepared statement. “At the end of the day, we now have a political system that better serves voters of color, communities, schools and all RISD students.” Brother Tyson, a 1973 Beta Sigma Chapter initiate and member of Xi Tau Lambda Chapter, filed two lawsuits against the district. The first lawsuit was to create single-member districts rather than at-large seats on the school board. The board was made up of seven at-large members, elected by voters districtwide. Courts have ruled for decades that at-large positions, in which all voters cast ballots for the same pool of candidates, marginalizes minority voices by favoring white majorities. In the second, he accused his former colleagues of a pattern of open meeting violations. He accused them of sending – deleting – emails, texts and voice messages to deliberate illegally, off the grid, instead of in public as state law requires. According to a study, the board voted unanimously 443 out of 444 board votes. In settling both lawsuits, the district agreed to pay Tyson’s lawyer $385,000 in taxpayer (or insurance) money. Five single-member districts will replace

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School Board. He also explained that there would be subsequent opportunities for District 2 and District 3 for persons of color to be elected in May 2020 as well. Brother Tyson’s attorney’s law firm has brought a series of Voter Rights Act cases regarding at-large voting school board members, including several in North Texas. The Brewer Storefront, a pro-bono affiliate of national law firm Brewer, Attorneys and Counselors, resolved Voting Rights Act cases involving the Carrollton-Farmers Branch, Irving and Grand Prairie school districts. All now use remodeled voting systems. S

BROTHERS ON THE MOVE

BROTHER DEDRIC R. DENNIST, SR. ASSIGNED TO NAVY PENTAGON POST

rother Dedric R. Dennist, Sr. will start a detail at the Pentagon working as the Action Officer for the Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Ship Programs (DASN(Ships)). He has spent the last two years, traveling across the world gaining knowledge on the operations and management of our U.S. Navy Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA). He was involved with the deployment of an undersea surveillance system and new construction of navy

U.S. Armed Services Committee and the U.S. Senate Committee on Appropriations. In 2018, Brother Dennist was competitively selected into Vice Admiral Thomas Moore’s Executive Fellowship Program, which is the highest developmental program for NAVSEA. As part of this program, he was afforded the opportunity to spend time in Europe, working with the Forward Deployed Regional Maintenance Center. During this time, he was at the very tip of the spear assisting our Navy sailors to expand our advantage, ensuring ships operating there were always ready to defend the American people and values. Prior to his selection, he served as the Lead Engineer on the DDG-1000 and spent 16 years in several positions at the Naval Surface Warfare Center – Crane Division; most notably as the Branch Head for three (3) different areas. In this new role as Action Officer, he will be supporting the principal advisor to the Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Research, Development and Acquisition (ASN(RDA)) on issues involving surface ships, submarines and associated weapons systems. Brother Dennist has nearly 20 years of experience in engineering, and program management in various sectors, including the Department of Defense (DoD), and Defense Finance and Accounting Services (DFAS).

vessels in San Diego, CA. He also worked in the NAVSEA Comptroller’s office in Washington, DC. In his new position, he will be working in conjunction with the Office of Legislative Affairs (OLA) as well as Congressional Representatives that serve on the

A Spring 2006 Iota Lambda initiate, Life Member and Charter Member of Sigma Kappa Lambda Chapter, Brother Dennist was the 2011 National Alumni Brother of the Year and in 2017 became a charter member of the Sigma Kappa Lambda Chapter in Bloomington, IN, which in its first year was awarded the District of Indiana Alumni Chapter of the Year. S

THE SPHINX

BROTHERS ON THE MOVE

BROTHER JUDGE ROBERT MOLLOY CONFIRMED AS DISTICT COURT JUDGE FOR VIRGIN ISLANDS

he U.S. Senate today (show actual date ) confirmed the nomination of Brother Judge Robert A. Molloy to serve as a District Court Judge in the U.S. Virgin Islands. The Senate voted 88-1 to invoke cloture, a procedure by which the Senate can vote to set an end to a debate without also rejecting the bill, amendment, conference report, motion, or other matter it has been debating. With the successful cloture, the Senate was cleared to easily confirm Judge Molloy today with a unanimous vote of 97-0. Judge Molloy, a 1998 Zeta Omicron Lambda Chapter initiate and member of Iota Sigma Lambda Chapter, replaces Judge Curtis Gomez who had been on the bench since January 1, 2005. The 97-0 confirmation of Superior Court Judge Robert A. Molloy to the federal bench is one of the few bipartisan votes taken by the current United States Senate this year — and quite possibly the last nearunanimous vote this bitter 2020 presidential election year. The United States Senate escalated Judge Molloy to the 10-year U.S. District Court post in February. Judge Molloy earned his Bachelor of Science degree from Hampton University, his Juris Doctor from American University’s Washington College of Law, and his Master of Business Administration from the American University Kogod School of Business.

ERAVP BROTHER TRAVIS D. NELSON ACCEPTED TO COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY’S ACCELERATED MASTER’S PROGRAM HIGHLY COMPETITIVE PROGRAM ACCEPTS 10-15 STUDENTS EACH YEAR

astern Region Assistant Vice President Brother Travis D. Nelson was recently accepted to Columbia University’s highly competitive School of International and Public Affairs (SIPA) 5-Year Joint Degree Program. The SIPA 5-Year Program is an accelerated joint master’s program allowing accepted Columbia students to earn a BA or BS and MPA or MIA in five years. The program, which is only for exceptionally advanced students – academically and experientially, accepts about 10-15 students each year. The curriculum is designed to prepare students to gain the skills and experiences necessary to achieve their career aspirations His admission corresponds to the Economic and Political Development concentration and Regional Specialization: United States specialization. Brother Nelson, a 2018 Eta Chapter initiate at Columbia University, joins a global network of extraordinary diverse and accomplished students committed to making a difference in the world. S

Since 2013, he had been a judge on Virgin Islands Superior Court. Previously, he had served as an Assistant Attorney General of Labor in the Virgin Islands Office of Collective Bargaining. He had served also served as a law clerk to Judge Raymond L. Finch of the U.S. District Court of the Virgin Islands. S

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LITERARY

BY BROTHER CHARLIE NELMS

From Cotton Fields to University Leadership: All Eyes on Charlie, A Memoir Indiana University Press (March 2019) $20.00 Paperback / $9.99 eBook 232 pages ISBN-10: 0253040167 ISBN-13: 978-0253040169 Educator Biographies / African- American Biographies / United States Biographies Amazon.com IUPress.org

rother Charlie Nelms had audaciously big dreams. Growing up black in the Deep South in the 1950s and 1960s, working in cotton fields, and living in poverty, Nelms dared to dream that he could do more with his life than work for white plantation owners sun-up to sun-down. Inspired by his parents, who first dared to dream that they could own their own land and have the right to vote, Nelms chose education as his weapon of choice for fighting racism and inequality. With hard work, determination, and the critical assistance of mentors who counseled him along the way, he found his way from the cotton fields of Arkansas to university leadership roles. Becoming the youngest and the first African American chancellor of a predominately white institution in Indiana, he faced tectonic changes in higher education during those ensuing decades of globalization, growing economic disparity, and political divisiveness. From Cotton Fields to University Leadership is an uplifting story about the power of education, the impact of community and mentorship, and the importance of dreaming big. Brother Charlie Nelms, a native of the Arkansas Delta, has devoted his life to equalizing opportunities for disenfranchised peoples. He is currently a senior scholar at the American Association of State Colleges and Universities and a Center Scholar at the Center for Postsecondary Research, Indiana University School of Education, as well as retired Chancellor, North Carolina Central University, and IU Vice President for Institutional Development and Student Affairs Emeritus. In retirement, he works with historically Black colleges and universities to strengthen leadership and governance. S

THE SPHINX

LITERARY

BY BROTHER MARC MORIAL

THE GUMBO COALITION: 10 LEADERSHIP LESSONS THAT HELP YOU TO INSPIRE, UNITE & ACHIEVE HarperCollins Leadership (May 5, 2020) $24.99 Hardcover 224 pages ISBN-10: 1400216281 ISBN-13: 978-1400216284 City Planning & Urban Development Urban Planning and Development / Local U.S. Politics Amazon.com TheGumboCoalition.com

o be a great leader, one must be able to unite people from all backgrounds with seemingly competing agendas to come together under a common cause. Brother Marc Morial, former mayor of New Orleans and current president and CEO of the National Urban League, has been such a leader and shares the lessons he learned along a legendary journey of achievement. Brother Morial knew his calling from a young age--he was meant to be a leader in the fight for meaningful change. Growing up in the segregated South and helping his father realize an incredible victory as the first African American mayor of New Orleans, Brother Morial was shown that, with the right tools, significant change is possible. Less than two decades later, in his own mayoral race in New Orleans, Brother Morial built what he christened the “Gumbo Coalition,” an incredible mixture of all of New Orleans’s ingredients--African Americans, Whites, Latinos, Asians, business leaders, grassroots community activists, business leaders, clergy, and many more. Each ingredient brought its own flavor, creating a dish that was able to reduce crime and rebuild New Orleans’s reputation with such power that the city was able to successfully attract an NBA franchise, multiple Super Bowls, and the Essence Festival, the largest African American event in the nation.

Now, Brother Morial fights on behalf of the National Urban League to create a community with a voice so strong that nothing can stand in the way of change. He is ready to teach others what he has learned along the way, by showing readers what it means to be a leader who can unite voices and create meaningful change. S

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LITERARY

BY BROTHER FREEMAN A. HRABOWSKI III (AUTHOR), PHILIP J. ROUS (CONTRIBUTOR), PETER H. HENDERSON (CONTRIBUTOR)

The Empowered University: Shared Leadership, Culture Change, and Academic Success $34.95 Hardcover 320 pages Johns Hopkins University Press (November 12, 2019) ISBN-10: 1421432919 ISBN-13: 978-1421432915) Higher Education Administration / Education Administration (Books) jhupbooks.press.jhu.edu Amazon.com There are few higher education leaders today that command more national respect and admiration than Brother Freeman A. Hrabowski III, the outspoken president of the University of Maryland, Baltimore County. Named one of America’s Best Leaders by US News & World Report and one of Time’s 100 Most Influential People in the World, Hrabowski has led a community transformation of UMBC from a young, regional institution to one of the nation’s most innovative research universities. In The Empowered University, Hrabowski and coauthors Philip J. Rous and Peter H. Henderson probe the way senior leaders, administrators, staff, faculty, and students facilitate academic success by cultivating an empowering institutional culture and broad leadership for innovation. They examine how shared leadership enables an empowered campus to tackle tough issues by taking a hard look in the mirror, noting strengths and weaknesses while assessing opportunities and challenges. The authors dig deeply into these tough issues in higher education ranging from course redesign to group-based and experiential learning, entrepreneurship and civic engagement, academic inclusion, and faculty diversity. The authors champion a holistic approach to student success, focusing on teaching and learning while offering an array of financial, social, and academic supports for students of all backgrounds. Throughout the book, the authors emphasize the important role of analytics in decision-making. They also explore how community members and senior leaders can work together to create an inclusive campus through a more welcoming and supportive racial climate, improved Title IX processes, and career support for faculty of all backgrounds. Ultimately, The Empowered University is as much a case study of the authors› work as it is an examination of institutional change, inclusive excellence, and campus-community partnerships. Arguing that higher education can play a unique role in addressing the fundamental divisions in our society and economy by supporting individuals in reaching their full potential, the authors have developed a provocative guide for higher education leaders who want to promote healthy and productive campus communities. S

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CHAPTER NEWS

BY BROTHERS CHRISTOPHER G. ELLIS, JR. AND PAUL C. WEBSTER

WARD, NYACOA LEAD ALPHA PRESENCE AT 49TH ANNUAL BLACK – HISPANIC CAUCUS IN NEW YORK

eneral President Everett B. Ward was on hand in the Empire State as the New York Association of Chapters of Alpha (NYACOA) held advocacy workshops, hosted community engagements, and participated with other divine nine organizations during the 49th annual legislative conference of the New York State Association of Black, Puerto Rican, Hispanic and Asian Legislators, February 14 – 16, 2020 in Albany, NY. President Ward served as a workshop panelist, legislative guest, and rousing Sunday church speaker as he represented the fraternity at the annual conference of the nation’s largest association of African American legislators. The General President’s presence was the first time that the fraternity’s Chief Executive has participated in New York’s annual Black power-broker weekend, which was attended by more than 40,000 people. Kicking off the weekend’s festivities on Friday, Feb. 14, was the annual Governor’s Reception, where President Ward and dozens of Alpha brothers were present as Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo, renamed the state’s higher education building and headquarters after Brother H. Carl McCall, Sigma ’58.

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Brother McCall, a former US Ambassador to the United Nations, Harlem State Senator, and early member of the legislative caucus, recently retired from his post as Chair of the Board of Trustees of the State University at New York. In 1994, Brother McCall made history as the first African American statewide official in New York history when he was elected New York State Comptroller, with more than 2.7 million votes. Following the Governor’s event, President Ward and a contingent of Brothers had a short walk from the Governor’s Mansion to the home of Brother Christopher Ellis, where his family hosted the General President and Brothers for a repast and fellowship before heading to the next reception a few blocks away. At the Albany Capitol Center, President Brother Ward was introduced by Brother Legislators and NYACOA leaders to the other 63-members of the caucus, including Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie, who chatted with Bro. Ward for about 20 minutes as Brothers, dignitaries and guests posed for pictures with the power pair. “New York is a unique state in our union especially in terms of age, size, culture, and its maturity in Alpha,” 67

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Left: General President Ward exchanging greetings with New York Governor Andrew Cuomo during the annual Governor's Reception. Center: Posing together at the annual New York Alphas annual reception during the NYSABPRL, Inc. Conference are (front) NY District Director Malik Goodson, Zeta Zeta Lambda '04 and General President Ward, (back) NYACOA 1st VP Larry Scott Blackmon, Alpha Gamma Lambda '11, NYS Assemblymember Brother Michael Blake, Alpha Mu '01, Immediate Past NY District Director Christopher Ellis, Theta Zeta '97, and NYS Assemblyman Brother Walter Mosley, Omicron Eta Lambda, '97. Right: Beta Pi Lambda President, Brother Dean Akinleye, Pi Pi '99, GP Ward, New York City Mayor Bill deBlasio and Brother Chatodd Floyd, Mu Alpha '05, posing together at the Chairwoman's Reception during the NYSABPRL, Inc. Conference.

General President Ward says. “This is most aptly seen not only in the rich history and accomplishments of some of our fraternity’s most distinguished Brothers but the current positioning of Alpha Brothers across the state in key elected offices, staff, and lobbying that influence critical processes and decisions.” Working with Brothers Walter Mosley, Omicron Theta Lambda ’97, (D-Brooklyn), Michael Blake, Alpha Mu ’01, (D-Bronx), of the NYS Assembly and Brother Leroy Comrie, Mu Phi ’77 (D-Queens) of the NYS Senate, NYACOA President Brother Malik Goodson, Zeta Zeta Lambda ‘04, tapped Brothers Ellis and Paul Webster to lead the weekend committee with NYACOA 1st Vice President, Larry Scott-Blackmon, Alpha Gamma Lambda ’12. Saturday morning began with a prayer breakfast where President Ward was an honored guest of Brother Rev. Dr. Darren Morton Xi Upsilon ’87 and event host Brother Michael Blake, who is also running for Congress in the Bronx. President Ward then connected with Dr. Kristina Johnson, Chancellor of the State University of New York, at the SUNY village to celebrate the accomplishments of students in SUNY’s Educational Opportunity Centers. With 64 campuses across the state, the State University of New York is the nation’s largest public university system. President Ward was a featured panelist on the session on Voting Reforms and the 2020 Election, telling the attendees about Alpha’s national commitment to be counted in the census and working with other social and civic organizations to get out the vote in November 2020. Ward, who spent time as Executive Director of the North Carolina Democratic Committee, discussed 68

ensuring that people participate in the franchise and protect our rights. “First of all, we vote,” he proclaims. “Alpha Phi Alpha is committed to voting and ensuring that our members, college students and communities participate in this most important civic duty.” Following the workshop Brother Ward, with a sizable contingent of Alpha brothers, engaged in a tour led by New York Brothers Eugene Aiken, Kappa Rho ’74, Louie Tobias, Alpha ’81, and Dean Dapo Akinleye, Pi Pi ’99, of the Legislative Complex, including the State Capitol Building. During the tour President Ward was called upon to deliver comments to rousing ovations from brimming gatherings of Sorors of Alpha Kappa Alpha and Zeta Phi Beta. In the afternoon, Brother Ward was the featured speaker at the NYACOA “We Count: NYACOA and the 2020 Census” call to action workshop at the Renaissance Hotel. Brothers joined other community professionals in discussing the census, why Americans need to be counted, and to get assistance on how to get involved in and establish complete count committees across the Big Apple and Empire State. The workshop was moderated for the second year by Ms. Nicole Yearwood, a regional representative of the U.S. Census Bureau, from their New York City offices. Ms. Yearwood, a member of the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., specializes in getting people of color and underrepresented communities involved in census activities. “Our presence during the annual Caucus event has continued to grow in a similar fashion to the THE SPHINX

CHAPTER NEWS

fraternity where it was an effort established by the local chapter in Albany and is becoming a statewide effort under the strategic guidance and sponsorship by NYACOA. This is a crystal-clear example of how the continuity of mission from one administration (Ellis) to the current administration can benefit the district as a whole and build capacity for greater impact.” Over the years, the fraternity’s Saturday evening caucus reception has developed into a must-attend event for New York’s African American attendees during caucus weekend. With 2020 being no exception, the SPRING 2020

NYACOA Caucus Weekend Reception drew upwards of 600 people, including the Caucus Chairwoman Latrice Walker, (D-Brooklyn); and Brother Rep. Gregory Meeks, Zeta Zeta Lambda ’89, (D-Queens), Chair of the House Subcommittee on Consumer Protections and Financial Institutions, who took the opportunity to chide the lack of leadership by some in Washington D.C., especially the White House, for its failure to protect all American families, especially those of color, the poor and immigrants. Also featured at the reception were Brothers Blake, Mosley and Brother Lester Young, Zeta Zeta Lambda ’85, a member of the New York State Board of Regents. 69

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During the reception, NYACOA distributed $5,000.00 in scholarships, and honored the Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. for their 100th Anniversary and century of service to our communities. The event had nearly full participation from NYACOA’s 41 chapters. In addition to the many Alpha Brothers, there were several representatives of all of the National Pan Hellenic Council organizations. During Sunday’s grand spiritual gathering led by Brother Blake at the Wilborn Temple COGIC, President Ward approached the pulpit of the packed church of over 1,000 to stress the importance of being counted in the 2020 Census and that work is needed across organizations as the only color that matters in this exercise is BLACK. President Ward’s energy and poignant message served as the perfect capstone to his action-packed weekend of engagement as he set the church on fire and created the stage for a unique spiritual experience where the critical policy objectives of the caucus weekend were infused into the powerful sermon delivered by Evangelist Timiney Figueroa. “It was a blessing and an honor to host the most impactful and notable activities of the weekend with the presence of General President Ward,” said Brother Blake. “His presence takes our reception and events to another level and give them national validation.” In addition to Brothers from across New York, representatives of Alpha in the nearby states of New Jersey; Connecticut and Massachusetts were present at the various Alpha events and functions during the weekend. S

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CHAPTER NEWS

BY BROTHER ROBERT STEWART

DELTA PI LAMBDA – SELMA, AL HOSTS CIVIC ENGAGEMENT TEEN SUMMIT

lpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc., Delta Pi Lambda Chapter and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.Selma Alumnae Chapter collaborated to host the first-ever Civic Engagement Teen Summit at Selma High School to kick off Martin Luther King Weekend on Friday, Jan. 17.

Who are your elected officials? What is civic engagement? What is advocacy? How to manage politics and social media?

The Teen Summit had the format of a town hall meeting where youth stepped up to the microphone and stated their grievances about improving the quality of life in the communities in which they live. Many of our youth are more interested than ever to be civically engaged, notwithstanding the upcoming 2020 elections. This precarious atmosphere creates a sense of urgency to ensure our youth have the tools necessary to adequately participate in the voting process and make sure their voices are effectively heard. The nonpartisan and worthwhile initiative’s goal was to foster a more educated electorate.

What are run offs? How to check your voting precinct? How to hold elected officials accountable? What issues are important to you? What is Identity politics? What are Referendums on a ballot? How is legislation passed?

2020 Elections are swiftly approaching. With the voting age at 18, many high school seniors will be eligible to vote in the upcoming elections for the first time. What’s more, they are vulnerable to insidious voter suppression efforts that would attempt to silence their voices. As a result, the work of civic organizations such as our fraternity, must become more nuanced and include more than voter registration drives. It was the goal of the program to equip youth with the political education to overcome these hurdles.

What is voter suppression and gerrymandering? What are Poll workers? S

The summit was open to all Selma High School juniors and seniors, who were approaching voting age and interested in civic engagement. Participating students were granted two hours of community service as an incentive. Additionally, officials from the Census Bureau were also present to discuss the importance of participation, being counted, jobs available with the bureau, and how the census affects how the government allocates resources to communities. The summit was imbued with hearty discussion and content. The topics that were discussed included, but is not limited to: What are primaries? What are general elections?

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Members of Epsilon Chi Lambda Chapter/River City Alphas and Beta Zeta/ECSU College Chapter conduct a voter registration/education project during an ECSU football game at Roebuck Stadium. BY BROTHER MORRIS AUTRY

RIVER CITY ALPHAS CONDUCT VOTER EDUCATION AND REGISTRATION ACTIVITIES

he Epsilon Chi Lambda Chapter (River City Alphas) in Elizabeth City, NC has been actively involved in several voter education and registration drives throughout the past year. “I believe our chapter is making an enormous impact on the political landscape of rural northeastern NC and we will continue to work steadfast for the betterment of our communities,” says Brother Donald McClain, president of the River City Alphas. The Chapter annually conducts a voter education and registration drive at an Elizabeth City State 72

University (ECSU) football game at Roebuck Stadium in collaboration with the Beta Zeta College Chapter at ECSU. The Chapter has also co-hosted several education and empowerment workshops in collaboration with other organizations including the NAACP, NC Justice Center, and Advance Carolina. Additionally, the Chapter continues to work in partnership with Democracy NC to distribute printed educational materials pertaining to issues such as early voting, absentee voting, voter ID requirements, provisional ballots, and reinstatement of voter privileges of convicted felons. S THE SPHINX

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ETA MU LAMBDA CHAPTER PUBLIC FORUM BRINGS OUT MAYORAL AND COUNCIL CANDIDATES

ight of the nine candidates running for Gastonia City Council and Mayor in the upcoming November election stumped for votes in a public forum on Sept. 23 hosted by the Eta Mu Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. The forum was held at St. Stephen’s AME Zion Church. The fraternity has sponsored similar forums in the past for local candidate races. “We held this forum as a community service so citizens would have the opportunity to make an informed choice about who represents them,” says Brother Luico Holland, chapter president. “We believe voting is our most important responsibility as citizens.” The candidates fielded questions on topics such as: affordable housing, crime rates, downtown development, and the FUSE project in two 40-minute sessions moderated by Teddy McDaniel, president and CEO of the Urban League of Central Carolina. Candidates running for City Council in Wards 4 and SPRING 2020

6 were questioned in the first 40-minute session and candidates for mayor and the Ward 3 seat answered questions in the second session. Candidates facing off in the forum were: mayoral candidates, Walker Reid, III, the City’s current mayor and challenger, Kim Price; incumbent, Jim Gallagher, and Jeff Bryson, vying for the Ward 3 seat; incumbent Todd Pierceall and Charles Odom running in Ward 4; and incumbent, David Humphries, and Donyel Barber in Ward 6. The Eta Mu Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity has been active in community service for 60 years since its organization in 1959. The fraternity has 30 members locally and more than 70,000 internationally. The fraternity focuses its efforts on developing community leaders, promoting academic excellence, and community service and advocacy. The key chapter initiatives are Aspire, a male mentoring program and Cub Scout Pack #1906. S 73

CHAPTER NEWS

BY BROTHER LAWRENCE DAVIS

DELTA XI LAMBDA CHAPTER ADOPT-APRECINCT

uring the 2020 Florida Presidential Preference Primary, the Brothers of Delta Xi Lambda Chapter participated in the Orange County Adopt-A-Precinct program. The community partnership included: Orange County Supervisor of Elections, St. Mark AME Church, Hankins Johnson Education Foundation and the DXL Chapter. This was part of our â&#x20AC;&#x153;A Voteless People is a Hopeless Peopleâ&#x20AC;? initiative, with a focus on voter participation.

Six brothers completed the necessary training and supported poll operations for Precinct 626, at St. Mark AME Church, on March 17th., Voter turnout was higher than past primary elections, which kept the Brothers very busy. In addition, the chapter has 100% voter participation goal for its membership and has been voter participation by the chapter membership. The chapter was also very active in voter education leading up to elections. S

Brothers supporting Adopt A Precinct Team: L to R: Roosevelt Williams, Hew Pinto, Rodney Rackley, Reginald Hughes, Ricardo Daye and Karl Harmon (not pictured)

THE SPHINX

CHAPTER NEWS

BY BROTHER BRYAN L. EVANS

NU MU LAMBDA GOES ALL-IN ON 2020 ELECTION

he 2020 Presidential Election is looming large, and the consequences of this election cycle could not be overstated. To ensure that every voice in Dekalb County is heard, every vote is counted, and voters are informed, the Nu Mu Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. has gone all in on the 2020 election. Nu Mu Lambda’s A Voteless People is a Hopeless People Committee, will impact this election cycle not only through registration, but through voter education, outreach and turnout. Brother Judesther Saint Marc, Nu Mu Lambda ’19, the committee’s chair, knows what he’s up against. “I’ve had several friends talk about politics not being their thing, or even worse believing their votes don’t actually count,” Brother St. Marc admits. “[So] our first event focused on education of rights, but more importantly how local officed impact the lives of everyday people.” In addition to voter education, The Dekalb Alpha’s A Voteless People is a Hopeless People Committee has been working to connect local elected officials with their constituencies. The first Jan. 18th event allowed more than 60 local Dekalb residents to interact with their elected officials at a local high school in Dekalb County, Georgia. Local officials discussed the issues, answered questions and even took part in a video interview series. Dekalb voters engaged with local on

SPRING 2020

topics ranging from voter participation and voters’ rights to specific issues and policies that directly impact the local community. With a goal of 1000 voter registrations, multiple candidate forums and increased turnout in the county, Nu Mu Lambda plans to increase its votercentered efforts. “We are working with the county commissioners, the school board, reaching [out] to elected officials on the local level, working with getout-the-vote organizations, working with the churches and promoting voter registration initiatives,” says Brother Saint Marc. This spring, Nu Mu Lambda will kick-off its Healthy Citizens Initiative. The purpose is to educate voters on the power of their vote to improve the overall health of citizens in the Dekalb community. Following the Healthy Citizens Initiative, the chapter will invite community members to its day party series beginning this summer. In addition to great music and a great atmosphere, attendees will leave with a grasp on the issues to help inform their votes. Lastly, the chapter will lead “Souls to the Polls” in collaboration with the Dekalb County National Pan-Hellenic Council. The urgency and weight of the 2020 election cycle is resonating throughout Dekalb County and Nu Mu Lambda intends to lead the charge with the Light of Alpha in our hearts and in our deeds. S

THE BRAND

BY BROTHER JOHN S. KENDALL, ESQ.

SECURING, MAINTAINING, AND PROTECTING ONE OF ALPHA PHI ALPHA'S MOST VALUED ASSETS & IN-HOUSE LICENSING PROGRAM

s a registered patent and trademark attorney, I have been asked how to “patent this name,” “copyright this idea,” and “trademark this invention” by individuals and business executives alike. Although protection exists and is available for these types of intangible property, it is imperative that the appropriate protection is obtained. Intellectual property is comprised mostly of those items protectable by laws concerning patents, trademarks and copyrights, and are defined below. However, here 76

I will focus only on trademarks, and more specifically, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity trademarks. A trademark is a word, design, logo, sound, or a combination of these used by a manufacturer to identify and distinguish his or her goods from others. A service mark functions much like a trademark except it relates to services. Federal registration provides greater scope of protection than a state or common law trademark. Reserving a corporate name in one or more states does not confer trademark rights. Provided THE SPHINX

THE BRAND

the appropriate affidavits are filed timely and renewed every ten years, it can last forever. Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. (“Alpha”) owns common law and federal registrations for numerous trademarks and designs. For example, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.®, The Sphinx ®, The Fraternal Shield, Greek Letters APA® and Fraternal Crest (collectively hereinafter “Alpha Marks”) are all federally registered service and trademarks and should always be used bearing the registered symbol “®”. It is also important to use these marks consistently to avoid trademark misuse or abandonment. Other trademarks include, but are not limited to, “1906,” “’06,” “A Phi A,” “Alpha Phi Alpha,” “APA 1906” design of the “Sphinx,” “Phi” hand sign, “Seven Jewels,” “Sphinx TV,” “Sphinx Radio,” and others (visit website for a nonexhaustive list of additional trademarks). Under General President Ward’s leadership and mandate to revitalize our licensing program and better protect our trademarks, the fees generated during the above time period is approximately four times what we have received in the past from third-party companies that collected licensing fees during a similar period on our behalf. The implementation of our new licensing program also ensures that the items sold have been reviewed and approved according to Alpha Standards and Branding. Speaking of Alpha Standards and Branding, it is very important that we control how the Fraternity is viewed and evaluated by others. At all times, we must be conscious of what we say, do, with whom we associate and how we conduct ourselves as Alpha Men and Alpha Phi Alpha. Thus, in order to maintain the good will acquired, the value of our trademarks and our Branding efforts (collectively hereinafter “Branding”), we must be careful in selecting who we select as licensed vendors and manufacturers (hereinafter collectively “Vendors”) to design, make and sell items bearing our marks. To assist Alpha in its Branding efforts, we have screened the licensed Vendors and the items they wish to sell to us. Consequently, we respectfully ask that you help our Vendors help us and purchase your paraphernalia and other items bearing Alpha Marks (hereinafter “goods”), only from licensed Vendors. Purchasing these goods from licensed Vendors not only supports those who are supporting us, many of which are active and financial members, but it also generates much needed unencumbered capital for Alpha. As a result of bringing our license program in-house, we have raised SPRING 2020

approximately $150,000.00 in licensing fees between June 2018 and September 2019, which does not include the guaranteed fees generated through the three-year exclusive agreement with our Official Blazer Maker. To help introduce you to our current vendors, Headquarters has posted them on our website (alphabetically and by state). We will also highlight several of them and their goods quarterly via social media and the Sphinx, as well as provide a direct link to their website where possible. Further, it is very important to avoid buying jewelry, paraphernalia, history books, clothing and other items bearing Alpha marks through non-licensed vendors, eBay, Amazon.com, Etsy, Pinterest, other on-line services and the various social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter and Snapchat for several reasons. First, they have not paid the Fraternity for this right and are thus capitalizing from Alpha assets for free. Second, they sometimes offer items that are unapproved, degrading, misleading, inappropriate or not to Alpha standards. Third, they may tarnish our name or good will that has been built over the past 113 years… remember Branding! Finally, use of these unauthorized and unvetted channels diminish Alpha’s ability to monitor the use of its marks and the quality of goods being offered for sale. Remember, these items are being associated with you and your beloved Fraternity. Finally, please report all instances of infringement to the national headquarters. Infringement includes, but is not limited to, vendors posting, making and selling items without a license on social media, in stores, online and on some college campuses. It also includes others using Alpha Marks in association with products and advertising without permission from the Fraternity. This was the underlining basis for the lawsuit around 2006 filed by Alpha Phi Alpha and other D9 Greeks against Converse, which we collectively won and received a Million-Dollar settlement. We ask that you help us further protect our House…and trademarks! S

Brother John S. Kendall, Esq., Gamma Theta ’81, the Fraternity’s Associate General Counsel for Intellectual Property, is a Registered Patent & Trademark Attorney and a member of Rho Zeta Lambda Chapter. Email: John06@patentcopyright.net

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LICENSED MANUFACTURERS AND VENDORS AD Greek 718.454.4211 179-10 Union Turnpike, Fresh Meadows, NY 11366 adgreekinfo@gmail.com www.adgreek.com

Christian Advisory 4889 Galleon Xing Decatur, GA 30035 (678) 517-6716 vaughansanders@yahoo.com www.christianadvisory.com

Alpha One Greek & Promotional Items LLC Robert Jones 314.534.4733 11 S. Vandeventer Ave St. Louis, MO 63108 alpha1greek@gmail.com www.alphaonegreek.com

Clotho Productions LLC Steven Hoel 310.901.1735 3844 S. Santa Fe Ave Vernon, CA 90058 hotei13@gmail.com www.fashiongreek.com

American Books & Carpets 3014 Fairmont St., Falls Church, VA 22042 410.980.2068 booksncarpets@gmail.com www.booksncarpets.com APGG/Stuff4Greeks Monica Allen 404.792.2526 1339 Marietta Blvd, Suite C 6400 Powers Ferry Rd, NW Atlanta, GA 30318 monica@s4g.com www.s4g.com Big Boy Headgear, Inc. Joanne Kim 1321 S. Burlington Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90006 joanne@bigboygear.com 213.388.2744 Bolton Business Services, LLC Henry Bolton 662.386.2253 100 Azalea Drive Columbus, MS 39705 hbolton@aol.com Buffalo Dallas Merchandise & Apparel Cassandra Miller 4611 Greer Circle Ste J Stone Mountain, GA 30083 buffalodallas4611@gmail.com www.buffalodallas.com 78

Craftique Mfg. Co. Dean Hogue 800.251.1014 PO Box 4422 Chattanooga, TN 37405 dhogue@craftiquemfg.com Creative Options of America, LLC Anita Harris 404.349.2185 PO Box 311497 Atlanta, GA 31131 creativeoptions1@hotmail.com www.creativeoptions.net Creative Woods Charles “Chas” Brooks 678.592.1541 116 Shannon Chase Drive Fairburn, GA 30213 creativewoodsonline@gmail.com Designed 2 Dribble, LLC Cheryl Sellers, CEO 719.963.0363 3305 Anne De Bourgh Drive Triangle, VA 22172 crs030909@gmail.com www.designed2dribble.com

Distinctive Specialties (Greek Paraphernalia) dba Rare Case, LLC LaVonne McDowell 704.547.9005 7925 North Tyson Street, Suite 113 Charlotte, NC 28262 rarecasellc@gmail.com www.distinctivespecialties.com Doom Wear Designs Alain Uyidi 949.278.7831 14 Mulholland Ct Mission Viejo, CA 92692 info@doomwear.com www.doomwear.com DVN Co., LLC Divine Creations Clothing, Co. Danielle Render 2070 Attic Parkway, Suite 302 Kennesaw, GA 30152 danielle@dvn.co www.dvn.co Esmie’s Closet www.esmiesclosetinc.com Amityville, NY 11701 Esmiescloset@gmail.com (516)986-7799 Express Design Group, Inc Joseph Tantilo 618.539.9998 6 Commerce Drive Freeburg, IL 62243 sales@greekgear.com www.greekgear.com Free Radical Labs, LLC dba Obsidian Mercantile Exchange Jason Robinson, PHD 706.521.3790 Athens, GA jason@freeradicallabs.com www.obsidianmx.com

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Greek Traditions Darrin Thomas 803.254.6404 22 Sunturf Circle Columbia, SC 29223 darrin@blackpagesusa.com www.greektraditions.net Greek Dynasty 866.950.7373 P. O. Box 2053 Jonesboro, GA 30237 greekdynasty@gmail.com Greek Escape 2801 S. Figueroa St., Los Angeles, CA 90007 213.747.4442 greekescape@sbcglobal.net www.greekescape.com Greek4Life Shedrick Warren 4231 East McCain Blvd. North Little Rock, AR 72117 Phone (501)955-8227 G4LCustomproduct@aol.com www.greek4life.com Greek CertiPHIed Apparel Kenyon Holley 267.716.7602 Philadelphia, PA 19142 greekcertiphied@gmail.com www.greekcertiphied.com Greek Occasions, LLC Tommie Arnold, Jr. 1502 Kincross Street Flossmoor, IL 60422 taj2@greekoccasions.com www.greekoccasions.com J Mar Specialty/Greek Life Shop Inc., 1101Belmar Street Columbus, GA 31907 770.484.1798 greek_lifeinc04@yahoo.com www.jmargreeklife.com Joneswear, Inc. www.joneswear.net Covington, GA 678-612-7054 joneswear@yahoo.com SPRING 2020

Kendall’s Greek Duncan, SC 29334 (864)304-7043 kendallsgreek@yahoo.com www.kendallsgreek.com KHKL LLC Millburn, NJ 315-877-2556 kapsp06@gmail.com Klassy Greek Emblems (214) 529-1159 440 Coit Rd., Apt #16306 Plano, TX 75075 KOP-35@hotmail.com www.klassygreekemblems.com LLE & D, LLC, 7 646.373-5296 Anthony J. Morina Drive, Stony Point, NY 10980 Andell@yahoo.com Love Me Greek www.lovemegreek.com customerservice@lovemegreek.com Parkville, MD 21234 (269)208-5276 MyWoodCanvas, LLC www.mywoodcanvas.com Fort Lauderdale, FL 305-781-3248 cnoel@mywoodcanvas.com National Convention Sales Cory Davis 281.507.7776 404.632.4819 4857 Neal Ridge Atlanta, GA 30349 NationalConventionSales@ gmail.com www.greekstore.org Old Gold Goods Paul Vaughns 817.412.3418 7509 Craig Street Fort Worth, TX 76112 1906@oldgoldgoods.com www.oldgoldgoods.com

Pat’s Exclusives Pat Bell 301.248.2882 4810 Ashford Place Upper Marlboro, MD 20772 patsexclusives@gmail.com www.patsexclusives.net Pegasus Promotional Products Rick Davis 110 Clifton PL., #3c Brooklyn, NY 11238 Phone (718)230-0991 pegasuspromo@verizon.net www.pegasuspromoproducts.com Penz by Design 877.736.7117 2180 Satellite Blvd, Suite 400 Duluth, GA 30097 sharita@stacyrobinsonstudios.com Perfect Apparel, LLC 8770 Commerce Park Place, Suite C, Indianapolis, IN 46268 317.398.5553 www.perfectapparel.com Real Greek Apparel Company Robert Taylor 815.454.5371 2912 N. MacArthur Blvd #103 Irving, TX 75062 info@realgreekapparel.com www.realgreek.com Royalty & Beads dba Forever Southern Royalty Victoria Evans 901.218.8721 1610 Danube Court Atlanta, GA 30349 royaltyandbeads@gmail.com Royal Works-Texas Johnny King III 346.253.6342 72 Palmero Way Manvel, TX 77578 JKing@aroyalwork.com www.divinegiftaccessories.com

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Savage Promotions, Inc. Kim Savage 717.939.1152 300 S Front St. Steelton, PA 17113 K_savage@comcast.net www.savage-promotions.com

Three J’s Products James Bennett 678.467.2093 1301 Edgebrook Lane Snellville, GA 30078 juke2@comcast.net www.threejproducts.com

Varsity Apparel, LLC Aaron Givens 501.920.4497 3831 Vaile Avenue Florissant, MO 63034 Aaron@varsityapparelstl.com www.varsityapparelstl.com

Schaffes’s Wooden Treasures Schaffe Smith 2302 Brookhaven Drive Champaign, IL 61821 Phone (217)369-0508 Schaffes@comcast.net www.Schaffeswood.com

Triple S Sports Apparel, LLC Sylvester Davis 214.543.4849 939 Green Tree Lane Duncanville, TX 75137 sylvester@triplesportsapparel.com https://triplessportsapparel.com/

Phirst Pham Greek Boutique LLC Roland & Andrea Ridgeway 202.656.1768 560 Peoples Plaza #279 Newark, DE 19702 mgmt@phirstphamgreek.com www.phirstphamgreek.com

Silver Etc. dba Greek Divine Austin, TX 770-403-1612 patasilveretc@yahoo.com

Turf Gear Gerald J. Brown 10255 Lisco Ct. Las Vegas, NV 89183 Phone (510)633-9870 turfgear@turfgear.com www.turfgear.com

Worldwide Origins, LLC (314)749-2534 worldwideorigins1@gmail.com www.worldwideorigins.com

The King McNeal Collection www.kingmcneal.com Kankakee, IL 815-351-9188 mr.mcneal1@gmail.com The Tea Rose Connection, LLC 866.832.7673 17205 Birchleaf Terr. Bowie MD 20716 info@tearoseconnection.com www.tearoseconnection.com 3 Sisters Embroidery, LLC Cathy Sheppard 919.572.6864 5410 NC Hwy 55 STE D Durham, NC 27713 iam.greek2@frontier.com www.monstergreek.com

Stuart Consulting Group, Inc. Brad Aboff 386.236.2236 4191 Dairy Court Port Orange, FL 32127 brad@nsemblem.com www.nsemblem.com

X-Press Yourself Worldwide Arlington, TX 817-269-5767 xpressyourselfsw@aol.com

Uzuri Kd Kidz/ Uzuri Greek, (614) 440-4601 6262 Alissa Lane Columbus, OH 43213 uzrikidkidz@yahoo.com www.uzuri-greek.myshopify.com

THE SPHINX

OMEGA CHAPTER

BY BROTHER DR. MARK DAVIS, II

BROTHER DR. MARK HOSEA DAVIS, SR. Educator

rother Deacon Doctor Mark Hosea Davis, Sr. transitioned to Omega Chapter on March 9, 2019.

He was born December 17, 1953, in Muskogee, Oklahoma and was a graduate of Langston and Washington Universities, earning his bachelor, master, and doctoral degrees in music education. Serving as a teacher for four decades in the St. Louis, Missouri area, he was a member of New Sunny Mount Baptist Church, serving on the deaconâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s board. Over the years, Brother Davis was a strong supporter of the fraternity. He was a 1974 Beta Kappa Chapter initiate at Langston University. He later became a life member of the fraternity, serving in various roles over a 45year period, including: Dean of Pledges, Beta Kappa and Zeta Gamma Lambda Chapter President and Chapter Advisor. He is survived by his wife, Dr. Evia Davis, daughter, Nicole Davis, and son, Brother Dr. Mark Davis, II. S

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OMEGA CHAPTER

BY BROTHER NEHEMIAH BESTER

BROTHER DR. JAMES ASHLEY DONALDSON Mathematician, Professor, And University President

rother Dr. James Ashley Donaldson transitioned to Omega Chapter on October 8, 2019.

He was born on April 17, 1941 in Madison County, Florida and was one of eleven children to Oliver Donaldson and Audrey Brown, who learned how to read, write, and calculate long before he entered elementary school. After graduating from high school, Brother Donaldson enrolled at Lincoln University in Pennsylvania – the nation’s first degree-granting Historically Black College and University in 1957, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in mathematics four years later. While there, he was initiated into the Nu Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated on November 11, 1958. Brother Donaldson continued his studies at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign where he received his master’s degree in mathematics in 1963 and his Ph.D. in mathematics two years later. Brother Donaldson has served as a professor in math at Southern University, Howard University, the University of Illinois at Chicago, and the University of New Mexico. He has been appointed as a visiting professor at the Courant Institute of Mathematical Science at the University of Victoria in Canada, the University of Ferrara in Italy, and Duke University in North Carolina. In 1972, he was named chairman of Howard University’s Department of Mathematics. Brother Donaldson has served on several professional committees of mathematics and science organizations. He is a member of the Council of the American Mathematical Society, was the editor of the newsletter of the National Association of Mathematics and served as the second vice president of the Mathematical Association of America. Additionally, he served as a consultant to the National Science Foundation, the National Research Council, the Sloan Foundation, the Educational Testing Service, and the District of Columbia Public School System. In Nineteen Hundred and Eighty-Six, he received the Lincoln University Alumni Achievement Award and was the National Institute of Science memorial lecturer three years after. A former interim president of Lincoln University in 1998, Brother Donaldson was awarded an honorary Doctor of Science from the institution in 2018. S

THE SPHINX

OMEGA CHAPTER

BY BROTHER VIC CARTER

BROTHER REV. DR. JOSEPH LOWERY Hands of Power and a Heart of Love

e was called the dean of the Civil Rights Movement. We called him Brother! On March 27, 2020, The Reverend Dr. Joseph Lowery transitioned to Omega Chapter as one of the most celebrated individuals in America. He was 98 years old. Brother Lowery left an indelible mark on this country as the co-founder of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference. He was a staunch advocate and soldier in the fight for civil rights. Long before Rosa Parks, Brother Lowery had campaigned to desegregate public buses in Montgomery, Alabama, and years later, he organized the now famous bus boycott. A right hand to brother Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr, Dr. Lowery was many times the voice and power behind some of the most memorable events in the history of America. Lowery led a demonstration in Decatur, Alabama, where 100 robed Klansmen attacked him and others. Shots were fired and narrowly missed Lowery - striking two other marchers. He like others in the movement would not deter from his mission From the days in the field leading marches and rallies to the pulpit to the steps of the U.S. Capitol to deliver the benediction at the inauguration of 44th President, Barack Obama; Lowery’s voice was on of eloquence and power. He was the epitome of a humble servant, and no matter where he was, he kept the least of these in mind and prayer. And now, Lord, in the complex arena of human relations, help us to make choices on the side of love, not hate; on the side of inclusion, not exclusion; tolerance, not intolerance. And as we leave this mountaintop, help us to hold on to the spirit of fellowship and the oneness of our family. Let us take that power back to our homes, our workplaces, our churches, our temples, our mosques, or wherever we seek your will. …We know you will not leave us alone, with your hands of power and your heart of love. Help us then,

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now, Lord, to work for that day when nation shall not lift up sword against nation when tanks will be beaten into tractors, when every man and every woman shall sit under his or her own vine and fig tree, and none shall be afraid…

(Excerpt from Inaugural Benediction for 44th President Barack H. Obama - January 9, 2009) Months after appearing on the dais for the Obama Inauguration, he was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom. The following year, Joseph Lowery crossed the burning sands and became a Brother of Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and was initiated on November 21, 2010. In one of his last known interviews, Brother Lowery reminded this journalist to always be of service to those who need it the most, and to always err on the side of peace. I last talked with him by phone in March 2018. He spoke about how he wanted people to remember about his life: “Well, I lived up to my commitment as best I could. There were times when the bell didn’t ring and the echo didn’t answer but other than that we kept the dream alive through our commitment and renewing of our vows so that justice rolled down like waters and righteousness like a mighty stream.” —Joseph Lowery - March 2018 S

OMEGA CHAPTER

BY BROTHER NEHEMIAH BESTER

DR. LEVI AKALAZU NWACHUKU Historian, Author, And Educator

rother Dr. Levi Akalazu Nwachuku transitioned to Omega Chapter on February 29, 2020.

He was born on August 23, 1940 in Aba, Nigeria to Moses Akalazu Nwachuku and Evageline Nwachuku. Brother Nwachuku was the first of seven children and attended high school at Aggrey Memorial College in Nigeria. Through the Nigerian government, Brother Nwachuku was granted the opportunity to study in the U.S. at Lincoln University in Pennsylvania. While there, he was initiated into the Nu Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. in 1964. After obtaining his undergraduate degree in history and political science, Brother Nwachuku went on to Howard University in D.C. where he received his master’s degree in Modern European History. His intellectual drive didn’t stop there, Brother Nwachuku would later receive his Ph.D. in African and AfroAmerican History at Michigan State University. Brother Nwachuku taught at the University of Michigan-Flint and at the University of Maiduguri in Nigeria before returning to Lincoln University. Back at his alma mater, Brother Nwachuku spent 29 years as a professor of History and African American Studies and later served as Chair of the History and Political Science Department and chapter advisor for his beloved Nu Chapter for several years. Brother Nwachuku was also a prolific writer among his many talents, achievements, and humanitarian work. His articles appeared in Current History, African Report, Journal of Black Studies, Black World, African Profiles, and Nigerian Bulletin of Foreign Affairs. He was the lead editor of Exploring the African American Experience and Troubled Journey: Nigeria Since the Civil War. Additionally, he served as co-editor and co-author of publications, including: the Lincoln Journal of Social and Political Thought, and the book, Pride of Lions: A History of Lincoln University, and wrote several chapters for books, including in Voices of Historical and Contemporary Black American Pioneers. Throughout his academic career, Brother Nwachuku received numerous honors and awards including the Lindback Award for Distinguished Teaching, Most Outstanding Male Faculty, NAACP Image Award, Faculty Person of the Year, Winter Warrior: Leadership Award, Nigerian Federal Government Scholarship and was listed in the directory of Who is Who Among America’s Teachers on five occasions. Of his children, three of his sons, are members of the Fraternity: Brothers Chinomso David Nwachuku, Nu ’07; Emmauel Chimereze Nwachuku, Omicron Delta Lambda ’09; and Enyinna Levi Nwachuku, Omicron ’08. S

THE SPHINX

OMEGA CHAPTER

BY BROTHER DONALD ROSS

BROTHER JAMES ANDREW SIWO OKUNDI College Professor

rother James Andrew Siwo Okundi, 77, of Wilberforce, Ohio, a 1993 initiate of Chi Lambda Chapter, transitioned to Omega Chapter November 6, 2018, at home with his family. He was born to Hezron and Damaris Okundi in Kenya. Siwo attended primary and secondary school in Kenya where he earned top of class honors all of his years. His academic success brought him to the United States to further his studies. After earning undergraduate and graduate degrees with honors from Wilberforce University and The University of Dayton, he excelled in accounting and ascended to the position of Chief Accountant at a leading American manufacturing company. His passion for academia led him back to the classroom where he taught at several colleges in Ohio, including his alma mater, where he served as a dean and professor. He had a magnetic personality and was a strong advocate for education resulting in his five children collectively earning thirteen degrees. In addition to Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., he was a member of Holy Trinity A.M.E. Church. Since his retirement, he used his personal time and resources to build homes for the needy, supported orphan children, sponsored international students to further their education in the United States, and counseled entrepreneurs. He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Florida Siwo, as well as five children including daughter, Elizabeth, sons Bro. Andrew (with Alpha Gamma Lambda Chapter), Robert, J. Thomas, and Michael, three grandchildren and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. Local arrangements were handled by Donald Jordan Memorial Chapel on Thursday, November 15, 2018, and a funeral service was held at Faith Community United Methodist Church in Xenia, Ohio. A separate and final funeral and burial took place in Kenya. S

SPRING 2020

OMEGA CHAPTER

BY BROTHER DR. STEVEN D. CARTER

BROTHER DR. PERCY J. WILSON Senior Pastor of New Life Missionary Church and Regional Director

rother Dr. Percy J. Wilson entered the Omega Chapter March 22, 2020 in his hometown.

Brother Wilson was born in Fairbanks, LA. to Mr. and Mrs. Percy Wilson, Sr. and raised in Monroe, LA. He is a graduate of Neville High School, Monroe, LA. He is the recipient of the following degrees: Bachelor of Arts Degree, Masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Degree, and Doctorate Degree. He was a life member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW). He was initiated into Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. on April 26, 1987 at Delta Rho Lambda (205). He was a faithfully active member and past chapter president of Theta Theta Lambda seated in Frankfurt, Germany. He served in the United States Army for more than 12 years as an enlisted soldier and retired as an Army Officer. He retired as a School Counselor with the Department of Defense Educational Activity (DODEA). He worked at Ansbach and Rainbow Elementary Schools. Brother Wilson began preaching in 1975, and he has served as a pastor both stateside and abroad. He is as an Ordained Bishop with the Church of God and served as Regional Director over the churches in Germany. He currently served as Pastor and Founder of New Hope Christian Center in Ansbach, Germany established in October 2005. He ministered by showing gentleness, meekness, and love as he ministered to the people of God. He is survived by his loving wife Patricia, one son, Percy III (Melody), and six grandchildren. S

THE SPHINX

OMEGA CHAPTER

BY BROTHER ERIC CHRISTOPHER WEBB, DDIV., CPLC

BROTHER ALBERT ELY EDWARDS Former Texas State Representative

he Fraternity, the nation, and the state of Texas mourns the loss of a pioneer and civil rights leader, Brother Former Texas State Rep. Albert Ely Edwards, 83, who transitioned to Omega Chapter, yesterday, April 29.

Brother Edwards, a 1970 Alpha Eta Lambda initiate and member of Alpha Eta Lambda chapter, was a successful businessman and one of the longest-serving lawmakers in Texas history – 13-terms, was the embodiment of Alpha Advocacy in Action. "Brother Edwards was a lifelong champion for justice and equality. It was my honor to serve with Representative Edwards on the Democratic National Committee,” said General President Everett B. Ward, Ph.D. “As a DNC member, I witnessed first-hand his tireless fight to ensure all people, especially African Americans received equal justice. Our fraternity will celebrate his legacy by continuing to fight against all forms of injustice." Brother Edwards graduated from Wheatley High School and received a bachelor's degree from Texas Southern University, Houston, Texas in 1966, a Certificate in Corrective Therapy at Tuskegee Institute in Alabama. During the Civil Rights Movement, he participated in peaceful marches and demonstrations throughout the United States of America with Brother Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Reverend Jesse Jackson, Reverend William (Bill) Lawson, and others. He had also marched, served on peace missions abroad, and most recently ensured the right to vote for students at Prairie View A&M. During his tenure as a legislator, he authored the bill that made Juneteenth a state holiday in 1979. That same year, Brother Edwards, also a realtor and mortgage broker, founded Juneteenth, U.S.A., along with Al Edwards Real Estate and Mortgage Company. In the legislature, he also served on three of the most influential Committees. Brother Edwards was the Chairman of the Rules and Resolutions Committee, Chairman of Budget and Oversight of the Ways and Means Committee and a member of the Appropriations Committee. From 1991 to 1997, he also served as chairman of the Texas Legislative Black Caucus. During that same time, he was called to the ministry, in 1983, in which the Rev. Edwards, was a member of the Progressive New Hope Church. In addition, he served twice as chairman of Reverend Jesse Jackson's Presidential Campaigns. Brother Edwards was inducted into "Who's Who in America " in 1989, and "Who's Who of Global Decision Makers" in 2006. He also received an honorary doctoral degree from the University of Belize in 1983. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Lana Edwards; sons, Brother Jason Edwards; and Al Edwards; and daughter, Alana Edwards. S

SPRING 2020

OMEGA CHAPTER

BY BROTHER ERIC CHRISTOPHER WEBB, DDIV., CPLC

BROTHER LARRY WOMBLE Former North Carolina State Representative and Winston-Salem Alderman

ormer North Carolina state representative and Winston-Salem alderman, Brother Larry Womble, a 1961 Beta Iota Chapter initiate and former member of Alpha Pi Lambda Chapter, transitioned to Omega Chapter on Thursday, March 14. He was 78. “Brother Womble was a faithful fraternity brother who devoted his life to the fraternity’s mission statement as a relentless advocate for the community,” said General President Everett B. Ward. “As a respected member of the North Carolina General Assembly, Brother Womble was instrumental in sponsoring legislation to advance living conditions for all people as well as a valued supporter of the N.C. Alpha Legislative Day. Brother Womble epitomized the highest standards of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.” At 40, he began his career, serving three terms on the board of aldermen from 1981 to 1993, representing the Southeast Ward, including Forsyth County. A retired Winston-Salem, North Carolina educator, he was elected to the North Carolina General Assembly’s 71st District in 1995 where he served until 2012. Brother Womble was an advocate for minorities and championed the cause of compensating the state’s sterilization victims. Born in Winston-Salem, North Carolina to the late Owen Luchion and Dorothy Gwyn Womble and attended Forsyth County public schools, Brother Womble earned a B.S. degree in Education at Winston-Salem State University in 1963, and then attended the University of North Carolina - Greensboro where he earned a Master of Education degree in Administration (and a Principal’s Certificate) in 1977. He later earned an Ed.S. in Administration and an Advanced Principal’s Certificate from Appalachian State University in 1979. S

THE SPHINX

OMEGA CHAPTER

BY BROTHER NEHEMIAH BESTER

Dr. Richard Arthur Evans Father, Friend, And Honored Professor Brother Dr. Richard Arthur Evans transitioned to Omega Chapter on Wednesday, April 15, 2020 in Huntsville, Alabama. He was born on November 11, 1938 in the Turkey Creek community of Gulfport, Mississippi to his mother, Hannah Mae Evans-Taylor, and his father, Louis Abraham Evans, Sr., At the age of 16, Brother Evans graduated from 33rd Avenue High School in 1955. After graduation, he attended Tougaloo Southern Christian College in Mississippi, where he received his B.S. in chemistry and was initiated into the Gamma Upsilon Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Brother Evans continued his education at Western Michigan University, where he received his master’s degree in chemistry in 1963, and later earned his Ph.D. in organic chemistry from Louisiana State University in 1971, becoming the first African American to earn a Doctorate in chemistry from the university. Brother Evans’ robust desire to excel guided his personal and professional life. His industrial experiences, included the Upjohn Pharmaceutical and All-Tile Chemical Companies, Kaiser Aluminum and Chemical Company, and the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory in Livermore California. As an accomplished professor and educator,He has also served as an instructor in the Department of Chemistry at Morgan State University in Baltimore, Maryland, and chairman of the Department of Chemistry at Alabama Agriculture and Mechanical College. Brother Evans’ love of teaching, wealth of knowledge and will to provide for those around him, led to his affiliation with various organizations, including the American Chemical Society, the National Organization for the Professional Advancement of Black Chemists and Chemical Engineers, the Alabama Education Retirees Association, as well as the Delta Theta Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. in Huntsville, Alabama. In addition, he was named Professor Emeritus in the Department of Chemistry at Alabama A&M University. Among his many talents, Brother Evans was an accomplished vocalist, who sang bass in the Chancel Choir and Men’s Chorus. He was also an inaugural member of the Huntsville Spiritual Chorale. And when he wasn’t practicing his softball pitch,, playing table tennis, or cooking his famous gumbo, he tutored science-related subjects to students, who attended the Fellowship After School Tutorial Program. In addition, , he had an active interest in microcomputers and microcomputer architecture. He was even donated some of the first computers used by Fellowship Church, as well as and established the first computer labs at both Fellowship and Alabama A&M University, with computers he mostly built himself. Brother Evans is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Gloria Bolton Evans and his children; Gregory Arthur Evans, Christopher Allen Evans and Kimberly Anissa Evans. S

TO ALL OUR BROTHERS IN OMEGA CHAPTER, MAY YOU REST IN PEACE.

SPRING 2020

OMEGA CHAPTER

The following is a list of members who have also entered Omega Chapter. For each member, included is: his name; life member number if available; chapter of initiation; date of initiation; last active chapter; and date of death. All of the information is based on what is submitted by chapters and family members and reconciled with the fraternityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s records.

Albert J. Abrams Iota Eta 12/1/76 Epsilon Beta Lambda 1/1/20

Gregory D. Bailey Alpha Nu Lambda 5/1/83 Alpha Nu Lambda 1/1/20

Ril M. Beatty, III Theta Lambda 6/16/07 Delta Gamma Lambda 1/1/20

Clarence Branch, Jr. Beta Omicron 12/1/54 Eta Chi Lambda 1/1/20

Richard T. Adams Delta Lambda 3/22/97 Delta Lambda 1/1/20

Smith A. Baker Epsilon Iota Lambda 4/14/90 Epsilon Iota Lambda 1/1/20

Coley M. Bellamy Beta Sigma 4/1/55 Eta Gamma Lambda 1/1/20

Walter D. Branch Gamma Kappa 5/1/47 Eta Lambda 1/1/20

Samuel L. Adams, Jr. Alpha Chi 11/24/79 General Organization 4/13/20

Arthur Baldwin Delta Gamma Lambda 12/9/65 Theta Omicron Lambda 1/1/20

Isaac H. Berry Beta Omicron 5/6/61 Delta Gamma Lambda 2/25/20

Willie R. Bray Gamma Phi 4/21/50 Alpha Nu Lambda 1/1/20

Preston R. Allison Beta Nu Lambda 5/9/69 Beta Nu Lambda 1/1/20

Raphael A. Baranco Chi 4/1/58 Eta Gamma Lambda 1/1/20

Robert Bess Delta Eta 2/23/60 Beta Phi Lambda 1/1/20

Christopher Roderick Brient Pi Omicron 12/2/98 General Organization 3/11/20

Franklin R. Ampy Beta Gamma 4/21/56 Mu Lambda 4/3/20

John Barnett Delta 9/15/78 Mu Lambda 12/29/19

Louis B. Beverly, Jr. Delta Phi 4/1/57 Alpha Epsilon Lambda 3/7/20

James Anderson Psi Lambda 3/19/88 1/1/20

Ronald D. Barton Xi Epsilon 3/5/83 General Organization 2/18/20

Randolph J. Blakeney, II Rho 3/20/04 Rho 1/15/20

H.M. Bass Beta Epsilon 5/18/33 Epsilon Iota Lambda 1/1/20

Wiley S.p. Bolden Beta Upsilon 5/6/38 Eta Lambda 1/1/20

Frank Battle Beta Sigma 11/30/49 Tau Lambda 1/1/20

Carey L. Boone Epsilon Iota Lambda 5/1/52 Epsilon Iota Lambda 1/1/20

Claude Batts, Jr. Delta Gamma 4/11/68 Psi Lambda 1/1/20

Stephen J. Boykin Alpha Epsilon 8/11/69 Delta Gamma Lambda 1/1/20

Leon W. Armistead Epsilon Iota Lambda 12/1/51 Epsilon Iota Lambda 1/1/20 Bryson C. Armstead Sr. Gamma Psi 2/1/48 Rho 1/1/20 C.C. Armstrong Theta Sigma Lambda Theta Sigma Lambda 1/1/20

Calvin A. Brown Alpha Rho 12/12/50 Eta Lambda 1/1/20 Richard B. Brown Alpha Upsilon 4/10/48 Gamma Lambda 1/1/20 Ocie Carlton Brown, Jr. Theta Sigma Lambda 3/15/08 Theta Sigma Lambda 1/1/20 Te-Andre A. Brown Beta Nu 3/16/19 Beta Nu 3/15/20

TO ALL OUR BROTHERS IN OMEGA CHAPTER, MAY YOU REST IN PEACE.

THE SPHINX

OMEGA CHAPTER

Caleb V. Brunson Delta Sigma Lambda 2/13/85 Delta Sigma Lambda 2/7/20

Cecil G. Christian, Jr. Beta 4/1/51 Kappa Phi Lambda 2/7/20

Clifton Davis Alpha Omicron Lambda 12/18/82 Alpha Delta Lambda 2/15/20

Luther Wilburn Elliott, Jr. Iota Upsilon Lambda 12/6/92 Iota Upsilon Lambda 1/9/20

Willie L. Bryant Beta Nu 12/1/57 Eta Chi Lambda 1/1/20

Arnold E. Clark, Jr. Theta Sigma Lambda 3/30/97 Theta Sigma Lambda 1/1/20

George H. Declouet Mu 5/26/62 Gamma Xi Lambda 1/1/20

George E. Evans Gamma Nu Lambda 4/1/66 Gamma Nu Lambda 1/1/20

Harold F. Burgess Alpha Phi 12/17/56 Kappa Phi Lambda 1/1/20

Louis W. Clayton Epsilon Iota Lambda 3/1/65 Epsilon Iota Lambda 1/1/20

Kenneth L. Dentson Delta Delta 5/25/96 Epsilon Tau Lambda 1/1/20

Richard A. Evans Gamma Upsilon 11/1/57 Delta Theta Lambda 4/15/20

Silas A. Butler Gamma 12/1/58 Kappa Epsilon Lambda 1/1/20

Samuel J. Collins, Jr. Beta Delta Lambda 12/1/67 Beta Delta Lambda 3/1/20

Douglass J. Diggs Epsilon 11/19/83 Gamma Lambda 1/1/20

Walter L. Evege, Jr. Gamma Upsilon 11/12/61 Eta Tau Lambda 1/1/20

Roddie Byers Zeta Rho Lambda 7/18/99 Zeta Rho Lambda 4/8/20

Simon A. Cook Beta Gamma 4/1/39 Epsilon Iota Lambda 1/1/20

Huley B. Dodson, Sr. Alpha Phi 12/1/48 Eta Lambda 1/1/20

Stanley Fields Gamma Lambda 7/31/86 Gamma Lambda 1/1/20

Russell C. Campbell, Sr. Gamma Pi 12/6/64 Iota Upsilon Lambda 4/10/20

Robert D. Crumpton Gamma Xi Lambda 9/01/1982 Gamma Xi Lambda 10/17/2019

Vernon R. Dorkins Delta Lambda 5/7/83 Delta Lambda 1/1/20

Joel L. Foote, Sr. Beta 5/15/47 Eta Gamma Lambda 1/1/20

Riley E. Cariness Eta Mu Lambda 3/7/70 Beta Nu Lambda 1/1/20

Paul E. Cruse, Sr. Alpha Psi 5/12/47 Theta Mu Lambda 1/1/20

Willard Draper Epsilon Phi 12/13/69 Mu Alpha Lambda 1/1/20

Sammuel A. Ford, Jr. Zeta Alpha Lambda 11/19/49 Zeta Alpha Lambda 1/1/20

James R. Carroll Delta Lambda 3/21/98 Delta Lambda 1/1/20

James E. Curtis Eta Gamma Lambda 5/1/65 Eta Gamma Lambda 1/1/20

Leroy T. Duff Beta Omicron 12/9/61 Tau Lambda 1/1/20

Henderson E. Formey, Jr. Beta Phi Lambda 12/7/72 Beta Phi Lambda 1/1/20

Lloyd Chandler Beta Psi Lambda 2/23/80 Nu Tau Lambda 2/13/20

Lewis Davis Eta Alpha Lambda 8/31/89 Eta Alpha Lambda 12/8/19

Norris Allen Edney Gamma Upsilon 12/15/56 Theta Sigma Lambda 1/1/20

Harry Lee Fusilier Eta Gamma Lambda Eta Gamma Lambda 1/1/20

Ronald J. Charles Eta Gamma Lambda 12/21/75 Eta Gamma Lambda 1/1/20

Bennie L. Davis Beta Zeta 5/1/46 Eta Lambda 1/1/20

James C. Edwards, Jr. Gamma Gamma 4/12/56 Beta Kappa Lambda 3/30/20

Cornelius E. Gaither Nu 11/14/47 Rho 3/22/20

TO ALL OUR BROTHERS IN OMEGA CHAPTER, MAY YOU REST IN PEACE.

SPRING 2020

OMEGA CHAPTER

Samuel L. Gay, Jr. Delta Iota Lambda 5/18/63 Beta Beta Lambda 4/19/20

Wendell J. Gorum Alpha Phi Lambda 5/26/62 Zeta Rho Lambda 2/21/20

Cluey D. Hargrove Beta Epsilon 5/9/55 Delta Lambda 1/1/20

Lovette Hood, Jr. Iota 4/14/49 Eta Lambda 1/1/20

Robert L. Gibbs Beta Pi 11/10/37 Beta Upsilon Lambda 1/1/20

Bishop William H. Graves, Sr. Beta Pi 12/12/57 Alpha Delta Lambda 1/1/20

Rodney E. Harrington Zeta Chi 12/5/79 Nu Pi Lambda 1/1/20

Roy P. Huddleston Delta Kappa 12/8/51 Epsilon Xi Lambda 1/1/20

Leon N. Harris Beta Gamma 4/1/61 Epsilon Iota Lambda 1/1/20

Benjamin Hudson, Jr. Epsilon Psi 3/15/68 General Organization 2/7/20

James B. Harris Eta Lambda 12/12/22 Eta Lambda 1/1/20

Dirk W. Hunter-Ellis Epsilon Mu 3/26/82 Iota Omicron Lambda 1/1/20

Charles C. Hayling, Jr. Eta Kappa Lambda 2/1/64 Eta Kappa Lambda 2/4/20

Galven Irby General Organization 7/2/49 Epsilon Zeta Lambda 1/1/20

Vernon Hector, Jr. Delta Eta 11/21/63 Eta Lambda 1/1/20

William O. Ivy Epsilon Phi 4/22/86 General Organization 1/1/20

Lewis C. Hicks Xi Theta Lambda 3/29/97 Delta Kappa Lambda 4/8/20

Edgar N. Jackson Beta Eta 12/6/58 Mu Mu Lambda 1/1/20

George E. Higgs Epsilon Tau Lambda 12/1/58 Epsilon Tau Lambda 1/1/20

Robert Wellington Jackson Delta Lambda 11/20/16 Delta Lambda 1/1/20

William S. Hight Beta Theta 12/1/46 Psi Lambda 1/1/20

Lenwood A. Jackson, Sr. Iota 12/4/63 Eta Lambda 1/1/20

John B. Holton Beta Tau 12/31/40 Eta Lambda 1/1/20

Stanford James Rho 2/14/63 Rho 3/26/20

Fred J. Gibson Beta Iota 11/21/75 Nu Pi Lambda 1/1/20 William Gilliam Beta Pi 12/31/48 Beta Upsilon Lambda 1/1/20 Howard Glover Iota 12/7/55 Eta Lambda 1/1/20 Frank Glover, Sr. Iota 11/1/51 Eta Lambda 1/1/20 Alfonza R. Goggins Alpha Phi 12/1/48 Eta Lambda 1/1/20 Shelby Golden Alpha Xi 6/1/40 Epsilon Zeta Lambda 1/1/20 Nathaniel R. Goldston, III Delta Psi Lambda 11/30/57 Eta Lambda 1/1/20 Leon N. Gordon Beta Kappa 12/11/54 Omicron Lambda Alpha 3/23/20

William A. Graves Delta Chi Lambda 6/1/74 Kappa Lambda 1/1/20 Alvin Henry Green, III Zeta Upsilon Lambda 11/5/17 Zeta Upsilon Lambda 1/1/20 Patrick J. Green Zeta Xi 9/1/66 Eta Gamma Lambda 1/1/20 Robert F. Greene Alpha Tau 9/1/66 Eta Tau Lambda 1/1/20 Christopher De'angelo Hall Gamma Xi Lambda 3/13/2017 Gamma Xi Lambda 3/03/2020 Morris F. Hall Alpha Omicron 4/17/62 Gamma Gamma Lambda 12/30/19 Christopher De'angelo Hall Gamma Xi Lambda 3/13/17 Gamma Xi Lambda 3/3/20

TO ALL OUR BROTHERS IN OMEGA CHAPTER, MAY YOU REST IN PEACE.

THE SPHINX

OMEGA CHAPTER

Garland U. Jamison Tau 12/1/29 Kappa Gamma Lambda 1/1/20

Harold W. Kelley Alpha Chi 11/24/56 Mu Mu Lambda 1/1/20

John P. Krouse Alpha Rho Lambda 12/12/39 Alpha Nu Lambda 1/1/20

Walter M. Lucas, III Epsilon Upsilon Lambda 6/7/80 Epsilon Upsilon Lambda 2/20/20

Gerold Harvey Jarmon Zeta Eta Lambda 3/24/90 Nu Iota Lambda 3/4/20

Jerry W. Kellum Epsilon Tau Lambda 4/1/75 Epsilon Tau Lambda 1/1/20

Otha O. Lang Mu Mu Lambda 12/1/80 Mu Mu Lambda 1/1/20

Odinga L. Maddox Beta Mu Lambda 6/15/76 Eta Zeta Lambda 3/5/20

Quinn R. Jenkins Eta Gamma 3/29/80 Epsilon Tau Lambda 1/1/20

J. Arthur Kelly Chi 4/25/53 Eta Lambda 1/1/20

Carson Lee Alpha Phi 12/1/50 Eta Lambda 1/1/20

Luke M. Marchmon Alpha Tau 7/7/72 Eta Tau Lambda 1/1/20

Jacob R. Jernigan, III Theta Lambda 6/1/78 Theta Lambda 1/1/20

Albert B. Kelsey Gamma Iota Lambda 11/24/51 Eta Lambda 1/1/20

Elmer P. Leigh Alpha Upsilon 12/9/50 Kappa Upsilon Lambda 12/19/19

Willie M. Martin Beta Iota Lambda 11/1/60 Eta Gamma Lambda 1/1/20

Larry W. Johnson, Sr. Eta Tau Lambda 11/16/79 Eta Tau Lambda 1/1/20

Irvin O. Kemp Alpha Phi 12/14/46 Kappa Epsilon Lambda 4/5/20

Robert L. Lewis Alpha Phi 12/12/50 Eta Lambda 1/1/20

Johnny E. Martin Beta Sigma 3/1/64 Eta Gamma Lambda 1/1/20

Logan A. Johnson Xi 3/1/47 Iota Alpha Lambda 1/1/20

Rufus E. Kennedy Beta Tau 3/31/72 Eta Gamma Lambda 1/1/20

C. M. Lewis Beta Upsilon Lambda 12/9/46 Beta Upsilon Lambda 1/1/20

Arthur B. Martin Alpha Chi 10/31/61 Delta Alpha Lambda 4/3/20

Charles F. Jones Eta Gamma Lambda 3/1/59 Eta Gamma Lambda 1/1/20

Nelson Allen Keyes Kappa Upsilon Lambda 3/10/96 Kappa Upsilon Lambda 1/1/20

Wilbert G. Lightfoot Nu Omicron Lambda 4/1/81 Nu Omicron Lambda 1/1/20

Sterling Efrem Matthews Beta Gamma Lambda 3/24/07 Beta Gamma Lambda 4/1/20

Glenn Jones Zeta Omicron 12/11/82 Delta Phi Lambda 1/1/20

Allen F. Killings Beta Nu 1/1/41 Eta Tau Lambda 1/1/20

Steven Lemond Little Beta Nu Lambda 11/16/96 Beta Nu Lambda 1/1/20

Neal C. Mccall Beta Upsilon Lambda 6/10/90 Beta Upsilon Lambda 1/1/20

R. B. Jones, Jr. Alpha Chi 11/1/56 Eta Gamma Lambda 1/1/20

Ernest J. King Beta Upsilon Lambda 4/13/85 Beta Upsilon Lambda 1/1/20

Coley Little, Jr. Zeta Eta Lambda 3/26/60 Nu Iota Lambda 1/1/20

Edward L. McCarty Epsilon Psi Lambda 1/11/86 Epsilon Psi Lambda 1/1/20

Charles L. Keels Delta Alpha 3/25/48 Zeta Omicron Lambda 1/1/20

Bishop C.A. Kirkendoll Beta Pi 4/30/36 Beta Upsilon Lambda 1/1/20

Joseph Echols Lowery Eta Lambda 11/21/10 Eta Lambda 3/27/20

Wesley C. McClure, Sr. Beta Pi 3/2/62 Beta Upsilon Lambda 1/1/20

TO ALL OUR BROTHERS IN OMEGA CHAPTER, MAY YOU REST IN PEACE.

SPRING 2020

OMEGA CHAPTER

Willie McGee Beta Omicron 5/1/52 Mu Lambda 2/23/20

Charley Mouton, Jr. Eta Gamma Lambda 4/1/60 Eta Gamma Lambda 1/1/20

Roland M. Porter Beta Pi 11/21/55 Beta Upsilon Lambda 1/1/20

Vernon Randall Epsilon Nu Lambda 12/9/60 Epsilon Nu Lambda 4/5/20

Nelson Mcghee, Jr. Beta 12/1/46 Eta Lambda 1/1/20

Gerold Nave, Sr. Beta Eta 9/4/66 Delta Epsilon Lambda 1/1/20

Roland Porter Beta Pi 12/6/55 Beta Upsilon Lambda 1/1/20

Marvin Rasberry Eta Tau Lambda 7/17/83 Eta Tau Lambda 1/1/20

Garrett G. McLain, Jr. Beta Nu Delta Rho Lambda 3/31/20

Frank Earl Nute Nu Pi Lambda 5/1/82 Nu Pi Lambda 1/1/20

Tommie Postell, Sr. Delta Delta 12/5/61 Gamma Omicron Lambda 1/1/20

Raleigh R. Rawls Beta 6/1/49 Zeta Alpha Lambda 1/1/20

Bassey Okon Offiong Epsilon Xi 11/12/16 Epsilon Xi 3/29/20

Willie L. Powers Gamma Phi 11/17/72 Gamma Omicron Lambda 12/13/19

William B. Ray Beta Mu 4/25/47 Delta Lambda 1/1/20

Earnest L. Palmer Epsilon Nu 11/10/62 Delta Phi Lambda 1/1/20

Keith M. Price Kappa Zeta 3/23/02 Zeta Zeta Lambda 1/1/20

Caesar Alex Raynor, Jr. Eta 4/26/69 Kappa Upsilon Lambda 1/1/20

John Parker Beta Upsilon 4/1/52 Alpha Nu Lambda 1/1/20

Warren J. Price Kappa Upsilon Lambda 3/10/07 Kappa Upsilon Lambda 3/6/20

Clyde L. Reese Beta Delta Eta Lambda 1/1/20

Solomon C. Payne, Phd Beta Gamma 12/3/49 Epsilon Iota Lambda 1/1/20

Thomas J. Pugh Gamma Omicron Lambda 12/9/50 Eta Lambda 1/1/20

Thomas L. Penn Theta Rho Lambda 10/7/67 Theta Rho Lambda 1/1/20

Alfred L. Pugh Nu 5/1/45 Zeta Alpha Lambda 1/1/20

Tony L Pierce Delta Theta 12/5/81 Alpha Eta Lambda 4/23/20

William P. Purcell Gamma Iota 3/1/51 Zeta Lambda 1/1/20

Alfred N. Poindexter Alpha Eta Lambda 4/30/47 Epsilon Tau Lambda 1/1/20

Louis A. Rabb Alpha Nu Lambda 11/30/38 Alpha Nu Lambda 1/1/20

Elridge W. Mcmillan, Jr. Kappa 11/3/56 Eta Lambda 1/1/20 Matthew Mczeal, Jr. Eta Gamma Lambda 4/10/93 Eta Gamma Lambda 1/1/20 Charles I. Mercer Beta Pi 12/15/66 Beta Upsilon Lambda 1/1/20 Travis Mitchell Mobley General Organization 3/28/92 12/23/19 W.L. Moore Epsilon Phi 1/12/64 General Organization 1/1/20 Charlie J. Moreland Alpha Rho 12/16/48 Eta Lambda 1/1/20 Palmer Mosby Beta Pi 2/26/62 Alpha Delta Lambda 1/1/20

Walter W. Reid Alpha Delta 3/23/56 Eta Lambda 1/1/20 Everette C. Relaford Nu Omicron Lambda 4/1/82 Nu Omicron Lambda 1/1/20 Walter P. Richardson, DDS Epsilon Iota Lambda 4/1/51 Epsilon Iota Lambda 1/1/20 Leon H. Ridley Alpha Tau 5/31/61 Theta Lambda 2/24/20

TO ALL OUR BROTHERS IN OMEGA CHAPTER, MAY YOU REST IN PEACE.

THE SPHINX

OMEGA CHAPTER

Joseph L. Roberts, Jr. Gamma Omicron 5/1/54 Eta Lambda 1/1/20

Jackson B. Sheftall, Jr. Alpha Rho 11/1/51 Epsilon Beta Lambda 12/1/19

William Edward Taylor, III Nu Chi Lambda 6/18/94 Nu Chi Lambda 3/1/20

Robert E. Wall Phi Lambda 4/30/74 Phi Lambda 12/31/19

Roy A. Robinson Psi Lambda 10/17/98 Psi Lambda 1/1/20

Merilus J. Simms Delta Eta 11/28/62 Beta Phi Lambda 1/1/20

Daughtry Thomas, Sr. Alpha Phi 5/1/50 Eta Lambda 1/1/20

Ralph C. Washington Alpha Epsilon Lambda 11/1/76 Alpha Epsilon Lambda 12/7/19

Ervin Romnie, Jr. Delta Gamma 4/1/57 Epsilon Delta Lambda 1/1/20

Robert L. Simpson Beta Tau 12/12/47 Epsilon Lambda 2/23/20

Jimmie Thomas, II Phi 3/1/86 Eta Tau Lambda 1/1/20

Solomon C. Westbrook, Jr. Beta Omicron 5/9/50 Tau Lambda 1/1/20

Louis E. Sanders Eta Chi Lambda 4/19/86 Eta Chi Lambda 2/28/20

Richard G. Smith Beta Alpha 4/1/71 Kappa Phi Lambda 4/23/20

William D. Thomas Beta Delta 11/12/62 Mu Lambda 4/6/20

Ollis E. Whitaker, Jr. Epsilon Phi Lambda 3/26/05 Gamma Tau Lambda 1/1/20

John Timothy Saunders Delta Beta 11/1/55 Zeta Alpha Lambda 1/1/20

Myron Lowell Smoot Kappa Alpha 11/1/81 Nu Pi Lambda 1/1/20

Arthur L. Tillery Kappa Epsilon Lambda 5/12/90 Kappa Epsilon Lambda 1/1/20

Eric C. Whitehead Epsilon Mu 5/12/90 Epsilon Mu 2/13/20

Wayne T. Saunders Omicron Alpha Lambda 4/15/89 Omicron Alpha Lambda 1/1/20

Clinton T. Smothers Alpha Phi Lambda 10/1/50 Alpha Phi Lambda 1/1/20

Oscar Trusty Iota Rho Lambda 4/29/89 Epsilon Psi Lambda 1/1/20

Keith James Williams Beta Gamma Lambda 3/15/15 Beta Gamma Lambda 1/1/20

Joseph P. Segura, Jr. Eta Gamma Lambda 4/1/67 Eta Gamma Lambda 1/1/20

James F. Steele Alpha Omicron 4/5/51 Kappa Epsilon Lambda 1/1/20

Samuel J. Tucker Alpha Rho 5/1/51 Eta Lambda 1/1/20

Arthur Roy Williams Eta Gamma Lambda 4/1/64 Eta Gamma Lambda 1/1/20

Sanford Sharp Epsilon Phi 9/24/83 General Organization 1/1/20

Gordon H. Stills Beta Alpha 12/12/52 Delta Lambda 1/1/20

Emory T. Turner Gamma Rho 4/30/58 Omicron Alpha Lambda 1/1/20

Carl J. Williams Eta Gamma Lambda 11/12/94 Eta Gamma Lambda 1/1/20

Dan Shaw Beta Pi 2/15/70 Beta Upsilon Lambda 1/1/20

Herman Stone Beta Pi 4/11/39 Beta Upsilon Lambda 1/1/20

Clarence E. Vaughn Iota Alpha Lambda 10/1/81 Iota Alpha Lambda 1/1/20

Eldredge M. Williams Gamma Delta 4/1/56 Alpha Delta Lambda 1/1/20

Jimmy Bernard Sheats, II Tau Lambda 2/12/94 1/1/20

Charter C. Taylor Iota 3/18/51 Eta Lambda 1/1/20

James Walker, Jr. Psi 3/25/84 General Organization 4/5/20

Percy Wilson, Jr. Delta Rho Lambda 4/26/87 Theta Theta Lambda 1/1/20

TO ALL OUR BROTHERS IN OMEGA CHAPTER, MAY YOU REST IN PEACE.

SPRING 2020

OMEGA CHAPTER

Jethro W. Wilson Beta Upsilon 11/1/59 Alpha Upsilon Lambda 1/14/20

Fred H. Woodruff Eta 7/16/55 Eta Lambda 1/1/20

George R. Woolfolk Alpha Eta Lambda 1/31/33 Epsilon Tau Lambda 1/1/20

Columbus V. Young Beta Upsilon 11/1/60 Epsilon Delta Lambda 1/1/20

Tylon L. Wilson Epsilon Kappa 3/22/75 Theta Mu Lambda 4/16/20

Clisson M. Woods, M.D Alpha Upsilon 2/3/60 Eta Lambda 1/1/20

Ernest W. Wright, Sr. Alpha Rho 12/17/38 Eta Lambda 1/1/20

Joseph L. Young Delta Eta 11/1/65 Beta Phi Lambda 1/1/20

Roy J. Wolfe Eta Lambda 4/30/53 Eta Lambda 1/1/20

THE SPHINX

ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY LEADERSHIP DIRECTORY

BOARD OF DIRECTORS GENERAL PRESIDENT Everett B. Ward, Ph.D. president@apa1906.net IMMEDIATE PAST GENERAL PRESIDENT Mark S. Tillman 34@apa1906.net

GENERAL CONVENTION OFFICIALS DIRECTOR OF CONVENTIONS Van L. Strickland director.conventions@apa1906.net PARLIAMENTARIAN John M. Williams parliamentarian@apa1906.net

COLLEGE BROTHERS AFFAIRS (COMMISSION) Dominique C. Beaumonte college@apa1906.net

M.I.S. AND TECHNOLOGY Rufus P. Credle Jr., Co-Chair Matthew Bradford, Co-Chair MIS@apa1906.net

RACIAL JUSTICE (COMMISSION) Gregory Vincent racial.justice@apa1906.net

MARCH OF DIMES Wilbert L. Brown MOD@apa1906.net MILITARY BROTHERS Darryl W. Sharp Sr. military@apa1906.net

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR & COO Joseph G. Paul joepaul@apa1906.net

CHAPLAIN Jonathan C. Augustine chaplain@apa1906.net

BUSINESS AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT (COMMISSION) William Pickard BED@apa1906.net

GENERAL TREASURER Densel Fleming General.treasurer@apa1906.net

SERGEANT AT ARMS James McFadden sergeant.at.arms@apa1906.net

LIFE MEMBERSHIP Rickey L. Thigpen life@apa1906.net

COMPTROLLER Donald E. Jackson comptroller@apa1906.net

SECURITY DIRECTOR Perrye Turner security@apa1906.net

SPECIAL COMMITTEES CHAIRMEN

EASTERN REGIONAL VICE PRESIDENT Lucien Metellus eastvp@apa1906.net

GENERAL CONVENTION COMMITTEES CHAIRMEN

AUDIT Donald Jackson comptroller@apa1906.net

MIDWESTERN REGIONAL VICE PRESIDENT Ronald Stovall, Jr. midwestvp@apa1906.net SOUTHERN REGIONAL VICE PRESIDENT Kelsey Rushing southvp@apa1906.net SOUTHWESTERN REGIONAL VICE PRESIDENT Tarrynce Robinson southwestvp@apa1906.net WESTERN REGIONAL VICE PRESIDENT Dondrell Swanson westvp@apa1906.net EASTERN REGIONAL ASSISTANT VICE PRESIDENT Travis Nelson eastavp@apa1906.net MIDWESTERN REGIONAL ASSISTANT VICE PRESIDENT Jonathan A. Monroe midwestavp@apa1906.net SOUTHERN REGIONAL ASSISTANT VICE PRESIDENT Emmanuel B. Dawson southavp@apa1906.net SOUTHWEST REGIONAL ASSISTANT VICE PRESIDENT Russell R. Williams, III southwestavp@apa1906.net

RULES AND CREDENTIALS Pierre Rutledge rules@apa1906.net RESOLUTIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS William J. Jernigan resolutions@apa1906.net AWARDS AND ACHIEVEMENT Earl H. Duval Jr. awards@apa1906.net GRIEVANCES AND DISCIPLINE Louis Morant grievances@apa1906.net

STANDING COMMITTEES CHAIRMEN CONSTITUTION Cash Sutton constitution@apa1906.net BUDGET AND FINANCE Ainsley A. Reynolds budget@apa1906.net ELECTIONS E. Christopher Washington elections@apa1906.net ENDOWMENT AND CAPITAL FORMATION Charles King ECF@apa1906.net MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT Stephan W. Bridges MD@apa1906.net

WESTERN REGIONAL ASSISTANT VICE PRESIDENT A. Fink westavp@apa1906.net

FRATERNAL STANDARDS Joseph Byrd FS@apa1906.net

APPOINTED OFFICERS

PUBLICATIONS Ramon E. Peralta publications@apa1906.net

GENERAL COUNSEL Daryl D. Parks counsel@apa1906.net HISTORIAN Robert L. Harris Jr. historian@apa1906.net

HISTORICAL COMMISSION Robert L. Harris Jr. historian@apa1906.net PUBLIC POLICY Yvesner H. Zamar policy@apa1906.net HUMAN RESOURCES Augustus G. Tolson Jr. HR@apa1906.net

SPRING 2020

A. CHARLES HASTON BROTHER’S KEEPER Ronald J. Peters Jr. bk@apa1906.net BELFORD V. LAWSON ORATORICAL CONTEST R. Sylvester Owens oratorical@apa1906.net BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS Dale H. Long BBBSA@apa1906.net BOY SCOUTS Michael Files scouts@apa1906.net COLLEGE LIFE TO CORPORATE LIFE John Funny C2C@apa1906.net GO-TO-HIGH SCHOOL GO-TO-COLLEGE Anthony Graham GTHGTC@apa1906.net HEALTH AND WELLNESS Duane Dyson health@apa1906.net HOBART S. JARRETT Debate Competition Michael McClain debate@apa1906.net INTERNAL AUDIT REVIEW TEAM Dexter Leon Taylor audit@apa1906.net INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS Ronald Sewell international.affairs@apa1906. net INVESTMENT Densel Fleming investment@apa1906.net JOHN HOPE FRANKLIN COLLEGIATE SCHOLARS’ BOWL Gregory L. Baily scholars@apa1906.net LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT INSTITUTE Corey Branch LDI@apa1906.net

MISS BLACK AND GOLD PAGEANT Sean A. Bellamy pageant@apa1906.net PROJECT ALPHA Charles Marshall project@apa1906.net PROTOCOL AND LOGISTICS Kenyatta N. Shamburger protocol@apa1906.net RECLAMATION Ron Mangum reclamation@apa1906.net RITUAL AND CEREMONIES Stephen R. Spence ritual@apa1906.net SENIOR ALPHA AFFAIRS Audrey L. Mackey senior.affairs@apa1906.net STEP SHOW COMPETITION Cecil A. Duffie step.show@apa1906.net TIME AND PLACE Christopher Evans TP@apa1906.net VOTELESS PEOPLE IS A HOPELESS PEOPLE Cassius Rudolph VPHP@apa1906.net WORLD POLICY COUNCIL Horace G. Dawson WPC@apa1906.net CORPORATE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL Donovan K. Kirkland CEC@apa1906.net VETERAN AFFAIRS Robert V. McDonald VA@apa1906.net STRATEGIC PLANNING John Ellis strategic@apa1906.net ALPHA UNIVERSITY Adrian L. Wallace AlphaU@apa1906.net HBCUS TASK FORCE Walter T. Tillman, Jr. HBCU@apa1906.net POLITICAL AND CIVIC ENGAGEMENT Carl Pickney PCE@apa1906.net HEADQUARTERS ASSESSMENT COMMITTEE Hebrew Dixon HAC@apa1906.net

FOUNDATIONS ALPHA PHI ALPHA BUILDING FOUNDATION R. Leandras “Bob” Jones building@apa1906.net ALPHA BUILDING FOUNDATION CORPORATION James R. Williams 1733 Brookwood Drive Akron, OH 44313 (330) 867-7536 ALPHA PHI ALPHA EDUCATION FOUNDATION Ruben Barkley education@apa1906.net JEWEL HERITAGE PROJECT FOUNDATIONS E. Eric Elmore JHP@apa1906.net

PAST GENERAL PRESIDENTS 34TH GENERAL PRESIDENT Mark S. Tillman 33RD GENERAL PRESIDENT Herman “Skip” Mason Jr. 32ND GENERAL PRESIDENT Darryl R. Matthews Sr. 32@apa1906.net 31ST GENERAL PRESIDENT Harry E. Johnson Sr. 31@apa1906.net 30TH GENERAL PRESIDENT Adrian L. Wallace 30@apa1906.net 29TH GENERAL PRESIDENT Milton C. Davis 29@apa1906.net 28TH GENERAL PRESIDENT Henry Ponder 28@apa1906.net 27TH GENERAL PRESIDENT Charles C. Teamer Sr. 27@apa1906.net 25TH GENERAL PRESIDENT James Williams 1733 Brookwood Drive Akron, OH 44313 (330) 867-7536 ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY Corporate Office 2313 St. Paul St. Baltimore, MD 21218 (410) 554-0040 membersupport@apa1906.net www.apa1906.net

ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY JEWEL FOUNDERS Henry Arthur Callis Charles Henry Chapman Eugene Kinckle Jones George Biddle Kelley Nathaniel Allison Murray Robert Harold Ogle Vertner Woodson Tandy

EMERGING ALPHAS ADVISORY TO GP Nicholas Harrison EAA@apa1906.net

THE SPHINX