¨Step and Stroll¨ event addresses Black Greek Letter Organizations stereotypes
Hundreds of students packed into the Bovee University UC Rotunda on Wednesday to watch a presentation aimed at dispelling the myths and misconceptions surrounding Black Greek Letter Organizations.
The Office of Student Activities and Involvement sponsored the interactive event “All We Do is Step, Stroll and Hop." Rasheed Ali Cromwell who is one of the leading voices on fraternity and sorority life speaks throughout the country about Black Greek Letter Organizations, was Wednesday night's keynote speaker.
Cromwell, is a graduate of North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, and a member of the Omega Psi Phi fraternity. In his third time speaking at CMU, he gave students a crash course in the history of BGLO’s and why their historical importance.
“I want to change perspectives, not just about the organizations, but about African-American culture overall,” Cromwell said. “I think education is something that’s missing these days and whether you’re black or not there are things that everyone should know and that lack of education causes a lots of problems.”
There are five black fraternities, and four black sororities in the nation, these groups make up what is referred to as the “Divine Nine”. These groups are a part of the National Pan-Hellenic Council. The earliest group Alpha Phi Alpha was founded in 1906, when Jim Crow laws were still enforced.
These groups impacted America by speaking out on social issues, reaffirming cultural pride, serving their communities and maintaining academic excellence, Cromwell said.
One of the most important things to mention when speaking of BGLOs is the historical context that coincides with their traditions. Many of the traditions such as pledge lines and probate shows have a deep meaning. They’re heavily influenced by the traditions and struggles of black people dating back to slavery.
Through the commercialization of their traditions through movies like "Stomp the Yard," television shows and corporations, many people may be misinformed about what black fraternities and sororities are really about, Cromwell said.
Chicago juniorr Larry Biggers is a member of Omega Psi Phi, and wants an emphasis to be placed on the roots of these organizations came from.
“I want people to take away this history that comes with (black fraternities and sororities), Biggers said. “As a black organization, we’re built to be black leaders and we want to build black leaders.”
CMU’s Coordinator of Greek Life Katrina Crawford saw a perfect opportunity to educate students on BGLOs this Black History Month.
“I think it’s important for people to know that NPHC exists on campus,” Crawford said.
The crowd was diverse, with both black and predominantly white Greek organizations in attendance.
“All three councils, NPHC, IFC, and PanHellenic were represented here today,” Crawford said. “Ideally, we all have to learn to work together. It’s important to collaborate and support each other and that was evident here today.”
