97th Anniversary 85th General
<%ÂŁ <&
t <%/!/& e
Alpha Phi Alpha in Detroit, Michigan
ROM TO
THE THE
SCHOOL COURT
By: Brother Charles Robinson lpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. brings together an unprecedented group of Scholars, Civic Activists and Business Leaders for their 97th Anniversary Convention in Detroit, MI. On July 31, 2003 through August 5, 2003 at the Detroit Marriott Renaissance Center Hotel, the largest gathering of college educated > African-American men ever assembled in "Motown." General President Harry E. Johnson brought together a who's who in America for this 97th Anniversary Convention. ^ "I'm just excited about the various individuals who know of our work and endorse what we do in America," said Brother Johnson. This year, Brother Johnson presented the College & University Issues Fomm, A Discussion on the State of Our Colleges and Universities. It included Presidents from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU's). This group discussed the state of our institutions of higher learning in the wake of the Supreme Courts ruling on Affirmative Action. "No one knew how the Supreme Court would rule in the Michigan," said Brother Johnson, "but it is clear that we, who send our children to colleges, have our work cut out to improve test scores and prepare the next generation for the challenges that
A
HOU
HOUSE
will face them. Who better to discuss those challenges then the individuals who decide who gets into college." Prior to the convention, Brothers had the opportunity to hear from Alpha Phi Alpha members like Marc Mortal, the new head of the National Urban League; Judge Joe Brown, the famed judge who reopened the Martin Luther King, Jr. murder case in Memphis and host of his own syndicated television show, and Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick. Additionally, Alpha recognized the work of people like Thomas Dortch of 100 Black Men of America, and Gary Cowger, President of General Motors North America. According to Brother Johnson, "Alpha's mission from its inception has been to serve mankind. What we did in Detroit will continue that legacy as we approach the 100th anniversary of the founding of Alpha Phi Alpha and the black collegiate Fraternity and Sorority movement." The last time the Alpha's national convention was in "Motown" was some thirty-four years ago. The return to the city comes in the wake of many national and international events shaping the world. The recent developments in the Middle East, the challenges of African-American in politics and the role of business in communities of color was discussed in a thoughtful and meaningful way during Alpha's stay.
"Before you borrow money from a friend, decide which you need more." - Anonymous