Brother of Epsilon Alpha Celebrate 90 Years of Service

By Bro Brandon Kitchen

On October 1, 2022, the Brothers of Epsilon Alpha Chapter, Ninth District of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc celebrated 90 years of service to the city of Fort Worth, TX Epsilon Alpha Chapter was chartered on October 1, 1932, under the direction of Brother William C. Paul, 5th Ninth District Representative (1931-1933). It is the oldest chapter in the Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) Metroplex To commemorate the milestone celebration, Epsilon Alpha hosted a series of events including a cigar lounge fellowship, a golf tournament, volunteering at Tarrant County Food Bank, a community cookout, and attending worship service at a local church. The highlight event occurring the evening before the 90th was the scholarship fundraising banquet featuring several distinguished guests and special moments In theme with Epsilon Alpha’s moniker, “the Cornerstone Ques”, Ninth District Representative Bro. Harold Bailey spoke on the significance and symbolism behind the cornerstone when used during the process of construction as it is the first stone set in a structure Before it is placed, it is carefully evaluated both on its own and about what is to come around it, ensuring proper alignment and stability when the building is complete. Bro. Bailey likened the metaphor to Epsilon Alpha being the foundational start of Omega’s presence within DFW that provided the opportunity for growth in surrounding areas to occur in the form of other chapters The keynote address was provided by Grand Counselor Bro Clement Osimetha, gave a passionate and moving speech reflecting on how far Fort Worth has evolved in 90 years. He challenged the audience to consider the past; recognizing the efforts of those brothers who established the charter in an era of the city that was deeply segregated and hostile toward African-Americans, and how we, benefit today from their bravery and collective leadership. In attendance was Loraine Lee, widow of 38th Grand Basileus Bro. Dr. Warren G Lee Jr was presented with the chapter’s resolution following her husband’s entrance into Omega Chapter on July 18, 2022 A special tribute and standing ovation were given to Bro. “Judge” L. Clifford Davis. Initiated through Tau Chapter in Spring 1947, Bro. Davis celebrated his 75th anniversary in the fraternity this year and is an active and financial brother in Epsilon Alpha at the age of 98 Bro Davis was one of the first two Black lawyers in Fort Worth; two notable lawsuits he filed were the cases that ultimately led to the desegregation of both Fort Worth and Mansfield school districts. He also assisted Thurgood Marshall in the landmark case Brown v. Board of Education. As Epsilon Alpha looks to the future of serving its community and surrounding areas, the chapter does so with the desire of being a positive influence to all and showcasing service and leadership led by our four Cardinal Principles: Manhood, Scholarship, Perseverance, and Uplift.