Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Integrated, has been a pillar of sisterhood, scholarship, service, and social motion since its founding on January 13, 1913, by 22 collegiate ladies at Howard College. As one of many largest sororities within the Divine 9 of Black Greek Letter Organizations (BGLOs), Delta Sigma Theta members have gone on to make an impression in communities all over the world. Whether or not they pledged in class, joined an alumnae chapter, or had been named honorary members, Deltas have a popularity for being brave leaders, having unbelievable expertise, and being visionary. In celebration of their 112th anniversary, listed below are 13 well-known or noteworthy Deltas who’ve made vital contributions of their respective fields and to their communities, simply to call just a few!
1. Shirley Chisholm As the primary Black girl elected to the USA Congress in 1968 and the primary girl and African American to run for the Democratic Celebration’s presidential nomination in 1972, Shirley Chisholm was a trailblazer. Her marketing campaign slogan, “Unbought and Unbossed,” nonetheless resonates as a testomony to her fearless advocacy for marginalized communities and her dedication to justice. She grew to become a member of Delta Sigma Theta whereas at Brooklyn School.
2. Mary McLeod Bethune An educator, stateswoman, and philanthropist, Mary McLeod Bethune based what’s now Bethune-Cookman College. She additionally served as a key advisor to President Franklin D. Roosevelt, advocating for African American youth and girls. Her dedication to schooling and civil rights laid the groundwork for future generations. She was inducted into Delta Sigma Theta as an honorary member in 1923 on the sorority’s nationwide conference.
3. Barbara Jordan A lawyer, educator, and politician, Barbara Jordan was the primary African American girl elected to the Texas Senate and the primary Southern Black girl elected to the U.S. Home of Representatives. Her eloquent speeches through the Watergate hearings cemented her legacy as a champion of ethics and democracy. She joined Delta Sigma Theta whereas in faculty at Texas Southern College.
4. Dorothy Top Sometimes called the “Godmother of the Civil Rights Motion,” Dorothy Top was a longtime president of the Nationwide Council of Negro Girls. She labored alongside leaders like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and advocated for each racial and gender equality, leaving an indelible mark on the battle for social justice. A former nationwide president of Delta Sigma Theta, she joined the group whereas residing in New York Metropolis.
5. Angela Bassett Award-winning actress Angela Bassett is a cultural icon celebrated for her highly effective portrayals of robust Black ladies in movie and tv. As a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta, Bassett continues to encourage by her artistry and her dedication to empowering future generations of performers. She joined the sorority as an honorary member in 2013.
6. Natalie Cole The late Natalie Cole was a Grammy-winning singer whose profession spanned a long time. Identified for hits like “Unforgettable,” her soulful voice and heartfelt performances earned her a particular place in music historical past. As a Delta, she represented grace and excellence within the arts. Cole joined the sorority whereas in faculty at USC, pledging the Upsilon chapter.
7. Keisha Lance Bottoms Because the sixtieth Mayor of Atlanta, Keisha Lance Bottoms demonstrated exemplary management throughout difficult occasions, together with the COVID-19 pandemic and nationwide protests for racial justice. Her dedication to fairness and financial improvement displays Delta’s rules of public service. Bottoms is the one Atlanta mayor in historical past to have served all three branches of presidency. She joined the sorority at FAMU whereas in faculty.
8. Cicely Tyson The late Cicely Tyson was an Emmy and Tony Award-winning actress whose profession decisions redefined portrayals of Black ladies in Hollywood. She was additionally an advocate for social change and schooling, dedicating her life to uplifting her neighborhood by her artistry and activism and lived to the age of 96. Tyson is an honorary member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
9. Marcia Fudge At the moment serving because the Secretary of Housing and City Growth, Marcia Fudge is a devoted public servant and former Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus. Her work in authorities displays Delta’s mission to advocate for social motion and neighborhood uplift. A former nationwide president, Fudge joined Delta Sigma Theta whereas in faculty at Ohio State College.
10. Nikki Giovanni A famend poet, creator, and activist, Nikki Giovanni’s phrases have impressed generations. Her work usually explored themes of race, social justice, and Black empowerment, embodying the spirit of Delta Sigma Theta’s dedication to cultural enrichment. Giovanni lately grew to become at ancestor at 81 years outdated and have become an honorary member of the sorority in 1973.
11. Patricia Roberts Harris Patricia Roberts Harris broke limitations as the primary Black girl to serve in a presidential cupboard, holding positions as Secretary of Housing and City Growth and Secretary of Well being, Schooling, and Welfare. Her trailblazing profession set a precedent for Black ladies in authorities management. She was the primary Govt Director of Delta Sigma Theta, Sorority Inc.
12. Aretha Franklin Whereas usually celebrated because the Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin was additionally an honorary member of Delta Sigma Theta who was inducted in 1992. Her music and activism made her a beacon of hope and empowerment, utilizing her platform to help civil rights and equality.
13. Ruby Dee Ruby Dee was an acclaimed actress, poet, and playwright whose profession spanned a long time. Alongside her husband, Ossie Davis, she was an outspoken activist within the Civil Rights Motion. Her contributions to the humanities and social justice exemplify the spirit of Delta Sigma Theta and she or he was an honorary co-chair of the sorority’s Nationwide Fee on Arts and Letters, in addition to an honorary member.
These 13 ladies, by their careers and neighborhood impression, embody the legacy and mission of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Integrated. Because the group celebrates 112 years of sisterhood and repair, could their lives encourage future generations of girls from any background, whether or not they belong to a sorority or not, to dwell with goal and keenness.
