**** Edited by Azizi Powell This is Part II of a four part pancocojams series about the use of the words "Bro, "Br'er", "Bruh", "Bruhz" and "Bra" as referents (particularly in the United States).
This post showcases three YouTube videos of the historically Black Greek letter fraternity Omega Psi Phi, Inc.. These videos exemplify the singing that Omega Psi Phi Fraternity is known for.
This post also includes selected comments from these videos' discussion threads. These comments document examples of the use of the words "brother", "bruhs", and "bruhz" by members of Omega Psi Phi fraternity and by other commenters. Brief explanations of some of the terms that are found in these comments are given in the comment section of this pancocojams post.
That timeline and the other posts in this pancocojams series strives to amplify the historical and cultural record as a way of helping to correct what I perceive to be the scarcity of details and/or the minimization of the tremendous role that African American culture has had and continues to have on the use of the words "bro" and "bruh" in American English and in the use of the English language throughout the world.
The content of this post is presented for historical, linguistic, socio-cultural, and aesthetic purposes.
All copyrights remain with their owners
Thanks to all past and present members of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. Thanks to all those who are featured in these showcase videos. Thanks also to all those who are quoted in this post. -snip- Click the "Omega Psi Phi Fraternity" tag below for additional pancocojams post about that fraternity which showcase hopping (stepping), strolling, and/or other aspects of that fraternity.
**** SELECTED COMMENTS FROM SHOWCASE VIDEO #1 [embedded at the top of this post]
These comments are given in chronological order with the oldest dated comment presented first, except for replies. Numbers are given to these comments for referencing purposes only.
** 6. @mlt9910, 2022 "Bruhs proudly serving in every facet of our society...4
barks"
** 7. @leonhill9068, 2025 "Hello to my Omega Brothers"
**** SHOWCASE VIDEO #2 - This Is Alpha Chapter, Omega Psi Phi Fraternity
JonyMatt, Feb 13, 2012
A 100 year retrospective of the annual picture of Alpha Chapter, Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, The Mother Pearl, as she celebrates her 100th year. -snip- Here are a few comments from the discussion thread for this video:
1. @mbest001, 2014 "Beautiful!!!! Good to see the good Bruhs represented in such a manner!!! oo-oop!!"
** 2. @louiswilliams4686, 2016 "I'm not a que. but y'all bruhs cool r cool with me. Lou l.o.e. 45"
** 3. @leoncraig6519, 2019 "Love it RQQ to the good Bruhz"
** 4. @Trackguy, 2020 "RQQ to all my frat brothers! No regrets! Just had the pleasure of visiting the Mother Pearl today."
** 5. @caldwelljackson9482, 2020 "This was a wonderful video showing pictures of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity brothers of the "Mother Pearl," Alpha Chapter, Howard University from the years 1911-2011. Much thanks and gratitude to the Brother and/or Brothers who posted this video
Brother Caldwell Jackson, #17, Spring 1963, Alpha Chapter, Howard University"
** 6. @HookEmUp2012, 2021 "RQQ to da bruhz!"
** 7. @SonofGod98407, 2022 "Man me and my Lbs used to listen to this every day on repeat before we became the Bruhz RQQ"
****
SHOWCASE VIDEO #3 -Centennial
set OWT "Down to River Omega
LambdaPhi Ques (Middle Georgia Ques), Aug 1, 2013
Jedi Q 4-Spr10-Lambda Phi 7thD .... "I been down to the river
Omega" .... The bruh is blind but when he sings you can literally feel the
spirit of Omega coursing through his veins!!:
HARD Phi Middle GA Ques -snip- Here are a few comments from the discussion thread for this video
1. @sghicks7, 2015 "That is Owt! Happy Founders day to the GOOD! Roo to the Jedi
Que for the Massive Singing, I remember we were getting ready to set owt the
centennial show and bruhs passed the word you sang this...RQQ
- Hicks 7-09 Nu Psi"
** 2. @martyhogan3178, 2017 "I came look at this over and over. Thank you for this my
brother. You have placed a piece in me that keeps me going. How beautiful it is
to see brother's dwelling together in unity. Marty Hogan "Spr" 14 Tau
Alpha Chapter. The Quad
** 3. @jerrett747, 2019 "Been listening to this Bruh for 2 years. Can't wait until I
get that chance. Long live Omega-Long live Da Good Bruhz."
** 5. @tyronethornton7870, 2019 "Was watching this before
I crossed (4-18-BP)... I'm a 4 and 7th D.... and I am blessed to share
the frat with this brother...RQQ"
** 6. @jamesrodgers5790, 2019 "RQQ to Da BRUHZ"
** 7. @RIKKYREIGNMUSIC, 2021 "RQQ to the bruhz!!!!"
**** This concludes Part II of this pancocojams series.
sharodsgirl, Nov 11, 2007 Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Alpha Chi Chapter at North Carolina Central University--Fall 2007
**** Edited by Azizi Powell
This pancocojams post presents examples of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. chant "This Is A Serious Matter".
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. is the oldest historically Black Greek letter sorority and is a member of The National Pan-Hellenic Council (informally known as "The Divine Nine").
The content of this post is presented for cultural, folkloric, and aesthetic purposes . All copyrights remain with their owners.
Thanks to the Langston University, Langston Oklahoma who are the authors of this Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. chant in 1986. Thanks to all past and present members of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Thanks to all those who are featured in these videos and all those who are quoted in this post. Thanks also to the publishers of these videos on YouTube.
-snip- This is an updated. reformatted version of a pancocojams post that was originally published in 2012. That post is still available on this pancocojams blog and includes some comments that aren't included in this 2025 post.
I consider fraternity & sorority chants to be cultural artifacts which deserve to be collected, preserved, and studied. I also believe that fraternity & sorority songs and chants should only be recited and/or performed by those persons who are affiliated with the specific organization that is associated with that particular chant.
**** GENERAL INFORMATION ABOUT THIS CHANT "This Is A Serious Matter" appears to be the most widely known traditional Alpha Kappa Alpha, Inc. (AKA) chant. This chant and its accompanying step routine have become signature parts of the culture of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. A signature movement in that routine is to step from left to right while both hands are held palm up close to the steppers' waist.
The lyrics to "This is a Serious Matter" may differ among various Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority chapters or within the same chapter at different points in time. "This is a Serious Matter" is usually composed of two line rhyming verses that state the history of the sorority, praise the sorority and its members, and/or diss (insult) other sororities. This chant always includes the line "this is a serious matter".
Many versions of this chant start with the step team saying "1 9 0 8". This is the date that Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. was founded. Most versions of "This Is A Serious Matter" include a reference to the fact that Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc was the first Black sorority. Each version of this chant includes the refrain "This Is a SERIOUS matter". However, a step team may only repeated the words "This is a serious matter; this is a serious, serious, serious matter". My sense is that what "is a serious matter" is the sorority itself- its history, its ideals, its present activities, and its members' commitment to that organization.
Thanks to Anonymous, May 30, 2014 for publishing these comments in the comment section for the 2012 post on this subject whose link is given above: "Serious Matter was authored and first performed at Langston University, Langston Oklahoma in 1986 by the Ivy line lovingly named '15 Girls in Search of 20 Pearls" -The Author-"
If anyone remembers the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. chant from the 1980s and the 1990s, please share that information with me and other blog readers in the comment section below. -snip- For the record, I "went over" (became a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.) in 1967-Gamma Zeta chapter, New Jersey. Members of the state's graduate chapter pledged my line. We only stepped a couple of times, and I only remember a few chants that I learned at that time.
**** SOME SHOWCASE VIDEO EXAMPLES OF THE ALPHA KAPPA ALPHA SORORITY.INC. CHANT "IT'S A SERIOUS MATTER"
These examples are presented in chronological order with the oldest example in this post.
The versions of "It's A Serious Matter" that are chanted in most of these YouTube videos aren't transcribed in this pancocojams post.
SHOWCASE VIDEO #1- [This video is found at the top of this pancocojams post.]
**** SHOWCASE VIDEO #2 - AKA Step...A Serious Matter
Uploaded by BHSMouse on Jan 31, 2009
**** SHOWCASE VIDEO #3 - Serious Matter
Brandon C, Published on Sep 26, 2009
The Omicron Sigma Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.
**** SHOWCASE VIDEO #4 -Greekster.tv - Serious Matter AKA
greekstertv, Uploaded on Dec 27, 2009
Interviewing the sisters of AKA at the Rutgers 10th Annual LTA Step, Stroll and Salute Exhibition
http://www.pulseonemedia.com - Video of the Alpha Kappa Alpha (AKA) step team during the 2010 Sprite Step-Off which was executive produced by Ludacris. The Alpha Kappa Alpha (AKA) step team used a Law & Order scenario as the theme for their performance during the 2010 Sprite Step-Off. This was there story! -snip- The portion of this video that showcases the chant "This Is A Serious Matter" chant is found at 2:12-2:51 -snip- This step team was first awarded 2nd place in that competition but, after considerable uproar, was awarded 1st place along with the previously awarded 1st place winners, a White sorority Zeta Tau Alpha from the University of Arkansas. Click http://couldntkeepit.wordpress.com/2010/03/02/a-serious-matter/ for commentary about this Sprite Step Off™ competition & decision.
**** SHOWCASE VIDEO #6 - Tau Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha "Serious Matter"
lovelaye1, Apr 24, 2011
This video was uploaded from an Android phone.
**** SHOWCASE VIDEO #7- Alpha Kappa Alpha: Probate '11 @ Auburn Uni-Part III
iconlb, Uploaded on Dec 5, 2011
ΚΧ Fall 2K11_Part III Alpha Kappa Alpha: Kappa Chi's new members presentation. "A Serious Matter" The PHinale.
****
SHOWCASE VIDEO #8 -Serious Matter
Dtb123, Dec 4, 2018 EAST TENNESSEE STATE UNIVERSITY
ETSU Omicron Rho’s Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Fall 2018
**** SOME WORD EXAMPLES OF THE ALPHA KAPPA ALPHA SORORITY, INC. CHANT "THIS IS A SERIOUS MATTER"
These examples are given in no particular order and are numbered for referencing purposes only. . Example #1- THIS IS A SERIOUS MATTER This is a Serious Matter Yes This is a Serious Matter Yes Yes Alpha Kappa Alpha A-K-A Sororities take note We paved your way So if your not AKA You went the wrong WAY! -AKA soror, (Pittsburgh, PA), from private electronic email to Azizi Powell, 8/13/04; posted on 12/2005
**** Example #2: THIS IS A SERIOUS MATTER
I woke up this morning, jumped out of bed, looked in the mirror and i SHOOK my pretty head Okay they say i'm conceited, that is no lie.... I'LL BE A CONCEITED AKA UNTIL THE DAY THAT I DIE! Pretty in pink, gorgeous in green Since 1908, We've rained supreme! This is a serious matter! YES! This is a serious matter! YES, YES! Alpha Kappa Alpha! (Alpha Kappa Alpha!) SWEET AKA! (SWEET AKA!) The first black sorority (echo) WE PAVED THE WAY! (echo) THIS IS A SERIOUS MATTER! -Guest, Fraternity & Sorority Chants and Songs; http://www.mudcat.org/thread.cfm?threadid=103135&messages=76 ; 3/10/2010
**** Example #3: THIS IS A SERIOUS MATTER
1 9 0 8 We are the first Black Greek sorority We wear our twenty pearls [?] When you see us with our heads held high And say [?] our noses are always in the sky 'Cause this is What? Ah serious matter. Group does step routines without chanting Ah serious matter. -BHSMouse; AKA GMU Probate; Fall 08; Omicron Iota step; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wyvnuGq5vLs&feature=related ; January 31, 2009 (transcription by Azizi Powell, 5/19/2010)
Editor: The question mark in brackets means that I'm not certain about what the step team chanted. If you know this chant or can better decipher what is being said, please correct or add to this transcription by posting the words to this chant in the comment section below. Thanks!
**** Example #4: THIS IS A SERIOUS MATTER
We are the first black greek sorority. Not DST, Not ZPhiB. Sigma Gamma Rho. I don't think so. Is it red and white? Is it red and gold? Delta Sigma Theta you don't even know Because on one bright and sunny day all of your founders pledged AKA. So greet me Delta and step back in line because you don't know who you are and you can't make up your mind." ... This is a serious matter! YES! This is a serious matter! -The "Sensational" Sigma Epsilon Chapter' Spring 2003; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nmvCmuFfycM&feature=related -snip- [This transcription was posted as a comment by video viewer Psionix9 in 2008. That video no longer exists.]
Clark Atlanta University Alpha Phi Alpha strolling at Spelhouse Market Friday Spring 2013
**** Edited by Azizi Powell
Latest update- January 30, 2026
This pancocojams post presents my editorial notes about the custom of members of Alpha Phi Alpha strolling with the lead stroller blowing a whistle.
This post also showcases video examples of this custom from 2013 and from 2023.
Selected comments from these videos' discussion thread are also included in this post. Those comments focus on the subject of Alphas strolling with a whistle.
The Addendum to this pancocojams post showcases a YouTube video of actual members of Alpha Phi Alpha stepping in Spike Lee's 1988 movie School Daze. Comments from that video's discussion thread about Alphas strolling with the lead stroller blowing a whistle are also included in this post.
The comments in this pancocojams post -including those from the discussion thread for the School Daze video in the Addendum- document mixed (positive or negative) opinions about the custom of Alphas strolling with the lead stroller blowing a whistle.
The content of this post is presented for historical, socio-cultural, entertainment, and aesthetic purposes.
All copyrights remain with their owners.
Thanks to all those who are featured in these videos. Thanks to all those who are quoted in this post and thanks to the publishers of these videos on YouTube. -snip- This post doesn't refer to members of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. or members of any other historically Black Greek letter fraternity or sorority doing a line dance or a stroll to rapper Too Short's 2006 hit record "Blow The Whistle" unless one or more of those strollers actually blow a whistle instrument. The Soul line dance "Blow The Whistle" was widely done in the Soul Line Dance community. However, I've never come across any videos of any dancers (or strollers) actually blowing a whistle while performing that dance.
** This is Part Six of an ongoing pancocojams post on the cultural meanings of and uses for blowing whistles (instruments) in various Black cultures throughout the world.
These pancocojams posts can be found under various tags beginning with the words "blowing whistles" such as the tag "blowing whistles while dancing" for the post entitled "Popping Fans & Blowing Whistles In "Boots On The Ground" And "Follow Me" Soul Line Dance Videos" https://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2025/02/popping-fans-blowing-whistles-in-soul.html
**** EXCERPT FROM MY EDITORIAL NOTES ABOUT HISTORICALLY BLACK GREEK LETTER FRATERNITIES AND SORORITIES STROLLING
by Azizi Powell, Feb. 23, 2025
"Strolls" are loosely or tightly choreographed processional (vertical line) dances that are usually performed by a group of people that are members of the same Greek letter organization, or -in the case of unity strolls- by members of different Greek letter organizations. Strolls originated with and are still mostly associated with members of the historically Black (African American) Greek letter organizations (members of the National Pan-Hellenic Council, informally known as "The Divine Nine") https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Pan-Hellenic_Council).
[...]
Blowing a whistle while strolling A small subset of non-competitive strolls that I have happened upon in YouTube videos and YouTube video shorts document the custom among members of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity strolling with the lead stroller blowing a whistle. It appears to me that the the lead stroller blowing a whistle is in imitation of the role of a marching band drum major. However, unlike the drum major's whistle blowing, the lead stroller's whistle blowing doesn't appear to signal any movements or directions that he wants the rest of the group he leads to follow. Also, the lead stroller's whistle blowing doesn't signal for people to get out of the way.
My guess is that the sounds of the whistle that is blown by the lead stroller in the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity videos that I've come across are meant to augment the sounds of the record that he and the other strollers are moving to. But I think that what is most important in those stroll performances that feature the lead stroller blowing a whistle is the image of a drum major type figure rather than the sound of the whistle itself.
The earliest YouTube video that I have come across for this custom are from 2011. One 2011 video of strolling that includes the sound of a whistle is https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ozCLSYxoX7I "Alphas & AKAs Stroll" published by Charles Sueing, Nov 3, 2011, Morehouse/Spelman Homecoming 2011. That video shows members of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and members of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. doing separate strolls at the same time in the same outdoor space. The whistle bursts are coming from an Alpha stroller.
As of the publication date and time of this update* for this pancocojams post (Feb. 23, 2025 at 1:56 PM EST) that video has a total of 192,994 views and 43 comments. None of those comments refer to the sound of the whistle being blown. That might suggest that hearing the sound of a whistle during a stroll-and particularly during an Alpha stroll- wasn't anything new or unique or worthy of commenting about, meaning this custom started before 2011 or was common in 2011.
Another 2011 YouTube video of Alphas strolling also features the song of a whistle. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RlsYnyGKw3w "Alpha Phi Alpha HT ISU Down for my stroll" published by Prettybr0wn3y3z, Oct, 8, 2011. (ISU = Illinois State University) As of the publication date and time for this update* for pancocojams post (February 23, 2025 at 5:00PM EST), this video has a total of 150,575 views and 26 comments. Here's the only comment that mentions whistles:
@jameshudson6523, 2017 "keeping a wisle ha ha ha"
I don't know if 2011 is the earliest date for that custom among Alphas. And I also don't know if any other historically African American Greek letter fraternities or sororities has the same custom of a lead stroller or any other person in that strolling group ever blows a whistle. (I haven't come across this custom in any other historically Black Greek letter organization and I haven't come across any video of anyone but the lead stroller in the Alpha strolls blowing a whistle.)v
The comments that I've read in discussion threads for YouTube video and YouTube video shorts document that there are mixed reviews about the custom of a whistle being blown during a stroll. Some commenters really like it and other comments don't like it at all.
Please share any information that you know about the early days of historically Black (African American) Greek letter organizations strolling. Please also share any information and/or your opinion about a stroller blowing a whistle while strolling.
* I updated this essay to reflect the early examples of Alphas strolling with whistles that I found after I had initially published this pancocojams post.
Vulture Island V2 · Rob49 & Lil Baby -snip- Mizzou is an informal name for The University of Missouri (Columbia, Missouri)
This is a YouTube video short. (YouTube video shorts are on a loop which continuously repeats the very brief video.)
**** SELECTED COMMENTS FROM THESE VIDEOS' DISCUSSION THREADS These compilation presents some of the comments from each of these videos' discussion thread that referred to the custom of the lead stroller in Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity strolls blowing a whistle.
I assigned numbers to these comments for referencing purposes only.
1. @jadeagudosi1170, 2013 "my favorite stroll so far!!!"
** 2. @dmedinahh5060, 2013 "they killed this !"
** Reply 3. @divaxbabyy, 2015 "yessss! they did that"
** 4. @dominichardaway3472, 2013 "'06 to the Bruhs"
** 5. @WHODINI06, 2017 "Good stuff Bros!!!"
** 6. @richiehughes9736, 2016 "nostalgia"
**** SELECTED COMMENTS FOR SHOWCASE VIDEO #2
WARNING- Some comments in that discussion thread that aren't included in this compilation directly disparaged people who are LGTBTQ. A few of these selected comments may also allude to anti-gay attitudes.
2023
1. @amoneylabamba "🔥🔥🔥"
** 2. @MizzLovelyOfMD "Go head Pham #06/08💞💚🖤💛"
** 3. @ItsJustDev321 "🔥🔥"
** 4. @vrx5021 "Blacks involved in Greek methodologies 🤦🏾♂️"
** Reply 5. @StephanieNiecey, 2024 "It’s sick and I go to a HBCU and I see this junk all of the time." -snip- The African American Vernacular English meaning of the word "sick" can be something very positive. However, I believe that "sick" in this comment is more like the standard English meaning of something that isn't healthy (i.e. something that isn't good.).
** Reply 6. @kylefair14, 2024 "The sphinx is Ancient Egyptian Mythology…" -snip- This comment and a few other comments in this compilation alludes to the fact that in the 1960s (if not earlier) to the 1990s members of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. (the Alphas) were known for their use of Egyptian cultural motifs particularly Pharaohs and the Sphinx.
** 7. @cookmup3229 "That dance is so wack 😂" -snip- The African American Vernacular English word "wack" means "corny".
** Reply 8. @LIFEWITHFEFE- "Oh pls like you can do this"
** Reply 9. @latoyanance3815, 2024 "@LIFEWITHFEFE- they throwing down in sync with each other and on key 🗝"
** Reply 10. @cristobalbalenciaga7295, 2024 " @LIFEWITHFEFE- So and everything you can’t do is not wack..? What kind of logic is that?
As a man i’m sure I can’t twerk. So as a man, I now can’t say that twerking as a man is wack? 😅
**** 2024
11. @beautyupabove4708 "Can you imagine in the days of Pharaoh in Egypt and the fella came in like this. The Pharaoh was blowing the MF whistle ❤❤❤"
** 12. @Joker36544 "They getting it"
** 13. @2sadto "Lol i want to do it only for the whistle 😂😂😂😂👯♀️👯♀️👯♀️👯♀️👯♀️"
** 14. @category9cane488 "When did we start dance routines 😠"
** Reply 15. @Brifearless5 "Since people decided they don’t want to be boring and just chant and stomp"
** Reply 16. @Heyu7her3 "Ummm... it's a stroll"
** 17. @basilicamiddlebrooks3293 "Nothing like an Alpha Man ❤"
** 18. @Teddy-m4z "Hope you all graduate!"
** Reply 19. @shanteprice6658 "They will!❤"
** Reply 20. @Reignsupreme76 "They are Alphas! You best believe
they will graduate!"
** Reply 21. @Heyu7her3 "They party hard, they stay up late; But, most of all, they graduate!" -snip- This "We party hard" saying is part of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity culture..
** 22. @CBAKEZX80 "Not the whistle!"
** 23. @Frank-t4j3l "Cab calloway😂" -snip- Cab Calloway (December 25, 1907 – November 18, 1994) was a famous African American Jazz singer and band leader. Some people consider/ed his demeanor to be somewhat over the top ("extra"). demeanor.
** 24. @Ricksh.1989 "Dem boiz too lit"
** 25. @jDunnFIT "Lost ones."
** 26. @christinacarter2518 "🤎💯"
** 27. @Logansrae "That dance corny sorry"
** 28. @manuelsmiley7125 "Buffoonery"
** 29. @johnholman3200 "SAD.👎🏽 GOT YASHAR'EL IN THE LAND OF THEIR CAPTIVITY DOING EGYPTIAN/GREEK PAGAN DANCES.
#yahudahtruthtribe" -snip- "Yashar'el" is a Hebrew Israelite referent for the population (or a man or men) from the population that is commonly known as Black Americans (African Americans). I believe that this commenter is criticizing men for joining Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity since he believes that that fraternity isn't part of Hebrew Israelite culture.
** 30. @Jrmabin1 "❤ Okay I see y'all!"
** 31. @tiffanydegoya "I can tell the lead guy is the 1 who made this erratic stroll 😂"
** Reply 32. @shannonj.5256 "😂😂😂 Lmaooo this comment got me rolling!!!"
** Reply 33. @Heyu7her3 "😭 Idk where it repeats 😅"
** Reply 34. @kpg9806 "don't do my frat like that lol"
**** ADDENDUM: SHOWCASE VIDEO FROM THE 1988 MOVIE SCHOOL DAZE
iCE iCE BABY,,,The Black And Gold
Allen C Johnson, July 3, 2014
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
**** EXAMPLES OF COMMENTS FROM THIS VIDEO'S DISCUSSION THREAD ABOUT STROLLING WHILE BLOWING A WHISTLE
1. @cduone, 2016 "And no dumb whistle sound either."
** Reply 2. @bayarea510, 2016 "i like the whistle lol"
** Reply 3. @shaunastokes1906, 2019 "Most of these guys ain't in shape to step, that's why most of the just stroll now. Laziness has crept in our ranks brothers of Alpha and we must reclaim the art of stepping"
** Reply 4. @marqosmarqos1201, 2019 "@shaunastokes1906 Sounds like something that should be discussed in house. You should consider deleting the comment if you are in fact a Alpha. Peace"
** Reply 5. @shaunastokes1906, 2020 "@marqosmarqos1201 That is not something that needs to be discussed in house. I have talked to several of the young brothers on the campus about that. I also am speaking in general terms concerning national and international brotherhood. There is nothing I said that in anyway betrayed the bonds of Alpha Phi Alpha. Thank you very kindly my brother."
** 6. @taylorwaylor8965, 2022 "Wow! no whistles or anything! This is a real marchdown"
**** 7. @dontem.8369, 2023 "Wait, no APE steps or whistles back then???"
** Reply 8. @anthonypersons7212, 2024 "Remember, this was the heyday of lawsuits and unfortunate deaths from pledging. So much was underground, just in case. Don't worry, the APE lives!🤙👊💯" -snip- Click https://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2023/05/alpha-phi-alpha-fraternity-alpha-walk.html Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity - "Alpha Walk" (also known as the "Ape Walk") videos and comments for a 2024 pancocojams post about the relatively new custom of members of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity doing the Ape Walk.
This pancocojams post presents a hyperlinked list of pancocojams posts about historically Black (African American) Greek letter fraternity and sorority strolling.
This list doesn't include any pancocojams post about historically Black Greek letter fraternity and sorority stepping (including probates), or stepping after graduation, posts on specific chants/song, or specific customs related to BGLOs, such as wearing kente cloth stoles, or changes in historically Black sorority members' hair styles, or the custom of decorating graduation caps etc.
The content of this post is presented for historical and socio-cultural purposes.
Also, click the tag below to find pancocojams posts about fraternity and sorority stepping. .
However, the easiest way of finding pancocojams articles is to use Google search. (for instance write what you are looking for and add pancocojams at the end of those words. Example: Alpha Kappa Alpha hairstyles). However, beware of fake pancocojams blogs i.e. blogs that copy my posts but don't include my (sometimes frequent updates and corrections).
**** LINKS TO PANCOCOJAMS POSTS ON STROLLING
These posts begin with the newest posts that I've published. I'll add posts to this list as they are published in this blog.
This pancocojams post presents an overview about historically Black (African American) Greek letter fraternity and sorority strolling that I initially wrote in 2021 but revised on February 22, 2025.
The content of this post is presented for historical and socio-cultural purposes.
I'm publishing this post because I couldn't find any detailed history and/or descriptions online about this subject. Also, it appears to me that there's quite a bit of confusion online between the performance art of fraternity/sorority stepping and the performance art of strolling.
Also, click the tag below to find pancocojams posts about fraternity and sorority stepping. . **** AN OVERVIEW OF HISTORICALLY AFRICAN AMERICAN GREEK LETTER FRATERNITY AND SORORITY STROLLS by Azizi Powell, latest revision: February 23, 2025
"Strolls" are loosely or tightly choreographed processional (vertical line) dances that are usually performed by a group of people that are members of the same Greek letter organization, or -in the case of unity strolls- by members of different Greek letter organizations. Strolls originated with and are still mostly associated with members of the historically Black (African American) Greek letter organizations (members of the National Pan-Hellenic Council, informally known as "The Divine Nine".https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Pan-Hellenic_Council).
The Performance Art Of Fraternity & Sorority Strolls Came From "Death Marches" Contemporary historically African American fraternity and sorority strolls are derived from those fraternity's and sorority's tradition in the 1940s or earlier of "death marches". Here's an excerpt of a Google search AI (Artificial Intelligence) result for fraternity and sorority death marches (retrieved February 23, 2025) "AI Overview
In the context of fraternities and sororities, a "death
march" refers to a highly demanding and physically strenuous ritualistic
march performed by new members (pledges) during the final stages of their
initiation process, often involving synchronized steps, chants, and intense
physical activity, signifying the "death" of their old selves and
rebirth as full members of the organization, particularly within historically
Black Greek organizations
[...]
Cultural significance:
"Death marches" are particularly prevalent within
the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC), a group of historically Black Greek
organizations, where it's considered a crucial part of the initiation process."... -end of quote-
Here's an excerpt of an online article historically Black Greek letter fraternity and sorority death marches" in the 1980s and 1990s: https://neworleanshistorical.org/items/show/1515 "Keep Marching On: Black Greek Organizations Performances on
Leon C. Simon Drive" By August Darbonne & Kathryn O’Dwyer, Editor "The half mile stretch of Leon C. Simon Drive, that forms the
front boundary of the University of New Orleans’s campus, was a central
performance space for Black Greek letter organizations in the 1980s and 1990s.
The stretch of sidewalk was the sight of “death marches,” artistic and
synchronized marches performed by new initiates of Black Greek letter
organizations. These marches took place when new members “came out”, announcing
their status as official members of their organizations after weeks of studying
fraternity/sorority history, organization, and purpose.
[...]
Marches brought out huge audiences, many of these onlookers
belonged to the UNO community, including members of predominantly White Greek
organizations. Marches were a rare instance when predominantly white greek
organizations interacted with historically Black Greek organizations.Joan Brown-Staidum, a charter member of Zeta Phi Beta at UNO (a historically Black organization, discussed her death march during an oral history interview conducted with her by the author in 2018: “The only thing they [predominantly White Greek
organizations] came to was when we were going over, we had the death march.”
This stretch of Leon C. Simon Drive was a space
where members could be unapologetic and celebrate their membership in
organizations that forged bonds between members and provided a support system
to uphold them throughout their academic career. This performance officiated
and solidified their membership, and conferred their membership into a very
important and needed
bond." -snip- The term "going over" (also given as "crossed over"; "crossed over the burning sands") is an old school (beginning around late 1960s or so) term for officially becoming a member of an historically Black Greek letter organizations. Since at least the 1990s, historically Black (African American) Greek letter strolls may be performed at indoor or outdoor competitive or non-competitive events. Strolls can occur with prior notice or spontaneously. In the case of competitive stroll events (known as "stroll-offs"), members of the Divine Nine fraternities compete against each other and members of the Divine Nine sororities compete against each other.
Certain non-competitive strolls (referred to as "unity strolls") are also performed to recorded music on the yard (a centrally placed university courtyard), or in a university gymnasium during half-time of a basketball game, or at other formal and informal events and gatherings. "Unity strolls" usually consists of multiple fraternities or sororities performing strolls in their own (separate) lines at the same time. Alternatively, unity strolls may consist of members of multiple Greek letter organizations strolling together in one vertical line, in usually staggered placements (such as a member of one organization standing behind a member of another organization). Some historically Black Greek letter organization strolls include members of other People of Color non NPHC fraternities and sororities and/or members of PWI (predominately White)Greek letter organizations).
More Descriptions of Strolling Strolls (early name- "party walk") are processions (single line formations) in which two or more people move in a circular manner either straight forward or zig zagging while performing choreographed struts or dance like motions. Unlike Conga lines, strollers don't touch the shoulders or any other part of the body of the person standing in front of them.
The term "party walks" is an early (1990s) referent for strolls. That name reflects the history of that performance movement art. The spontaneous nature of early party walks meant that those processions weren't necessarily associated with a particular record. Although strolls now (in 2025) are usually performed to a specific R&B or Hip Hop record, in the 1990s, strolls might not have had anything to do with what record was being played or even if there was any record being played at all. Instead, a stroll could begin when one member of a specific fraternity, or sorority (or a fraternity's little sister group) spontaneously decided to "party walk". That person (silently or while chanting) started performing steps (movements) that were (are) associated with that organization. Technically, the party walk (stroll) began when another member of that organization joined that first person, thus creating a procession. Other members of that specific organization usually join/ed in the party walk/stroll which continued until the end of the record or (if they were strolling without a record) continued for one reason or another.
Strollers often chant their organization's signature call and "throw" (perform their organization's signature hand sign. Their facial expressions are usually confident, proud, and focused (since they are promoting their organization by these public strolls. Strollers may also chant words or dates that are associated with their fraternity or sorority such as their founding date.
Strollers represent ("rep") their particular organization by waring clothes in their organization's colors, by throwing their organization's hand sign, and by chanting their organization's founding date and other words associated with their organization. Strollers also "rep" their organization by performing movements and gestures that are associated with that organization such as Kappa Alpha Psi's shoulder shimmy, Alpha Phi Alpha's Ape walk, and Sigma Gamma Rho's "Shake That Monkey" butt twerking.
People who watch strolls may be silent or boisterous, depending on whether the stroll is planned o spontaneous, and/or dependent on whether the stroll is competitive or non-competitive. A cardinal rule regarding strolls is that no one is allowed to cut through a stroll line as doing so would be interpreted as disrespecting that particular organization is strolling. .
Purposes of Strolling Strolling provides informal and formal opportunities for members of a specific Greek letter fraternity or sorority(or in the case of "unity strolls" for more than one fraternity or sorority) to "rep" (represent, promote, "big up", show off) their organization/s.
Strolling also provides opportunities for people to dance even if a person doesn't have a dance partner. Strolling helps build group esteem and strengthens the connection that strollers have with their organization itself and with other members of that organization. Strolling also helps reinforce the self-esteem of individual strollers because it provides opportunities for them to "show out" (show off) their dance (strolling) skills as long as they remain on beat and remain in that stroll line. Unity strolls provide opportunities for members of different Greek letter organizations to get to know each other and engage in activities together.
In addition, party walking (strolling) provides serious, but also fun opportunities for strollers (party walkers) to enjoy themselves. The seriousness of strolling is suggested by the rule mentioned earlier about how cutting into a stroll line is viewed as a definite breach of etiquette.
Blowing a whistle while strolling A small subset of non-competitive strolls that I have happened upon in YouTube videos and YouTube video shorts document the custom among members of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity strolling with the lead stroller blowing a whistle. It appears to me that the the lead stroller blowing a whistle is in imitation of the role of a drum major. However, unlike the drum major's whistle blowing, the lead stroller's whistle blowing doesn't appear to signal any movements or directions that he wants the rest of the group he leads to follow. Also, the lead stroller's whistle blowing doesn't signal for people to get out of the way. Nor does the lead stroller's whistle blowing appear to me to be musical (i.e. augmenting the sounds of the record that he and the strollers who follow him are moving to.) Indeed, I can't determine any meaning for the addition of the whistle in the APHIA strolls except for the visual connection to a drum major.
The earliest YouTube video that I have come across for this custom is a 2013 video of members of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. I don't know if this is the earliest date for that custom among Alphas and I also don't know if any other historically African American Greek letter fraternities or sororities has the same custom of a lead stroller or any other person in that strolling group blows a whistle. Please share any information that you know about that custom of blowing whistles while strolling as well as any information that you know about the early days of historically Black (African American) Greek letter organizations strolling. -snip- Fraternity and Sorority Strolls aren't the same performance art as The Stroll, an African American originated line dance that began in the 1957. "The Soul Train Line" from the 1970s on television dance show Soul Train is the most well known example of The Stroll (R&B dance).
Shawn Johnson, Feb 16, 2022 -snip- Cincinnati, Ohio
**** Edited by Azizi Powell
Latest Revision -March17, 2024 This pancocojams post showcases seven YouTube videos of members of the historically Black Greek letter fraternity Omega Psi Phi wearing gold boots and military fatigue pants and/or military fatigue shirts during their step show or probate* performances.
*"Probates" are performances when new members of Black Greek Letter Organizations are introduced to the public for the first time.
An article excerpt about the influence of some branches of the United States military upon the cultures of historically Black Greek letter organizations (BGLOs) is included in this post. This post also includes my editorial notes on the Omega Psi Phi custom of wearing gold boots and military fatigues in many of their step show performances.
The content of this post is presented for historical, cultural, and aesthetic purposes.
All copyrights remain with their owners.
Thanks to all past and present members of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.. Thanks to all those who are featured in these videos and thanks to the producers and publishers of these videos on YouTube. Thanks also to Tamara Brown for her quote on the United States' military's influence on the cultures of historically Black Greek letter fraternities. -snip- Please help identify the city/state and/or university of the Omega Psi Phi chapters that are showcased in these videos. Thanks!
**** ARTICLE EXCERPT From African American Fraternities and Sororities: The Legacy and the Vision edited by Tamara Brown Google Books, p 327-329 "The military has played a large part in the formation and continuation of BGLO chants and steps. One might even say that the performance behaviors of both the military and BGLOs exist in a type of symbiotic relationship.... As a result of blacks entering the military before, during, and after attending college, one find BGLO behavior in the military, and military behavior in BGLO system.
The brothers of Omega Psi Phi with their paramilitary garb, trace stepping back to the military influence of the 1900s. Ex-soldiers attending college would incorporate marches and drills into their BGLO performance…Shannon Rawls of Kappa Alpha Psi elaborated: “Members of black organizations, brothers of Kappa Alpha Psi, Omega Psi Phi...who went to the military for World War II in the late ’30s and early ‘40s would come back home and incorporate some of the same cadence and military style back into....the stepping style, or into the dancing style that they did.”
Stepping during that early period was called lining, descriptive of the formation in which soldiers march. Some Omegas and other BGLO members still refer to stepping as marching on account of this early military influence.
This military behavior is further observed in the clothing, stance, and marching of BGLO members. Part of the basic working military wardrobe consists of camouflage pants, or fatigues, and combat boots. These garments, though found in all fraternities, are especially prevalent in brothers of Omega Psi Phi..." -snip- "BGLO" = Black Greek letter[ed] Organizations -snip- Click https://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2013/11/military-influences-on-fraternity.htmlfor the closely related 2013 pancocojams post entitled "Military Influences On Fraternity & Sorority Steppin."
Additions and corrections are welcome.
**** PANCOCOJAMS EDITOR'S NOTES This pancocojams post doesn't mean to indicate or imply that members of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.always wear gold boots and/or military fatigues during their step show or their probate performances. Omegas (Ques) may wear other clothing with gold boots or with black boots during those performances.
Members of other historically Black Greek letter fraternities may wear military fatigues, but they have not and never will wear gold boots. Purple and old gold are the colors for Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. and wearing gold boots indicates that men are members of that brotherhood. I believe that Omegas wear gold boots only during their performance in step shows or during other special occasions.
The custom of members of historically Black Greek letter fraternities wearing military fatigues reflects the heavy influence that the United States military, particularly in the Marines and the Army have had upon the formation and cultures of historically Black Greek letter organizations.
**** ADDITIONAL SHOWCASE VIDEOS These videos are numbered for referencing purposes only.
SHOWCASE VIDEO #2 - FISS 2011 UF Omega Psi Phi
Chloe Clark, Feb 21, 2011
Lamar Abel Tribute R.I.P.
**** SHOWCASE VIDEO #3 - Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. - TAU Chapter Spr 2018
Probate Show
CraftyDog5, Jun 10, 2018
**** SHOWCASE VIDEO #4 - Desert Dawgs of DAA OMEGA PSI PHI 2022 Hop Show
Fisher Junk, March 2, 2022
**** SHOWCASE VIDEO #5 - Alpha Iota Iota Chapter Spring 23' New Member Presentation -
Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.
TJ Riley, May 23,
2023
North Dallas Ques
**** SHOWCASE VIDEO #6 - The Funky Four Corners Of Omega Psi Phi! 12th District
@set.thever!, 2022
**** SHOWCASE VIDEO #7 - The
2014 Texas State University Yard Show: Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc.
Jordan Moments L.L.C., Sep 16, 2014
The 2014 Texas State University - San Marcos Yard Show was
hosted by The National Pan-Hellenic Council at Texas State University. This is
a video of the Xi Delta Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc. from Texas
State University performing in this event.
This is Part I of a three part pancocojams series on the use of wooden canes (kanes)* in the performing arts traditions of historically Black Greek lettered fraternities & sororities.
* "Kanes" is the Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. spelling for the word "canes".
This post presents selected comments from a 2002-2010 Greekchat.com discussion by members of historically Black Greek letter fraternities and sororities about the origin, history, and (then) current practices of historically Black Greek letter organizations that perform stepping routines with canes (kanes).
This 2024 post contains additional comments from that 2002-2010 Greekchat.com discussion thread than the post that I originally published on pancocojams in 2012.
Please click the following links for the other two posts in this series as the content of those posts hasn't been revised or updated.
Click for http://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2012/11/cane-kane-performances-in-black_9.html for Part II of this pancocojams series. That post presents selected comments from that 2002-2010 Greekchat.com discussion thread about the origin, history, and opinions about performances with canes (kanes) in historically Black Greek lettered fraternities and sororities.
The content of this post is presented for historical, folkloric, and cultural purposes.
Thanks to all those who are quoted in this post.
**** Part I SELECTED COMMENTS FROM A GREEKCHAT DISCUSSION THREAD ABOUT THE HISTORY & CURRENT PRACTICES OF CANE PERFORMANCES IN BLACK FRATERNITIES & SORORITIES The majority of these comments are from a Greekchat forum which included members of various historically Black fraternities & sororities.
These comments are posted in chronological order with the earliest comments posted first. For the sake of this series, these comments have been assigned a consecutive number, starting with Post I and continuing in Post II.
These numbers aren't the same as the numbers given in that Greekchat.com discussion thread-
Comment #1, arRHOgance4, 3-04-2002 "ok...my question to you gentlemen.
How do you feel about other orgs using canes?
Do you feel offended by it or what?
I pose this because...my guy is a nupe. When i was practicing with my sorors at a neighboring school for a stepshow, they said we had one part where we use canes.
So anyways, he was up in arms about the fact we were using them and was talkin mad sh*t. So what makes it that no other org should use them? I was taught that the men of KAPsi taught the ladies of SGRho to step with canes back in the day in Indiana. I do not mean we should be bopping, twirling, and the whole nine yards, but we use them for beat. We could have just as well used sticks...but canes are usually easier to find. Anyways, some responses would be apprieciated."..
** Comment #2: SweetestDiva, 3-04-2002 Location: What you know about them Texas girls?? :) "I've been to three stepshows in the past month and I think I've seen just about every org. using canes. Besides Kappas, I'd seen SGRhos and Sigmas use them, but never anybody else. At a show I was at last weekend, sorors came onstage in pink jumpsuits and started twirling green canes.. my mouth was wide open. It was just something I'd never seen before."
** Comment #3:DoggyStyle82, 3-06-2002 "You aint neva eva seen a Que twirling no cane, nor will you ever. Cane twirling belongs to Kappas. No one else should ever pick up a cane in a stepshow, especially Sigmas. Do your own stuff. As many old school Kappas as I know, none of them have ever stated that Kappas taught SGRhos to step with canes. Having worked with a Kappa Provincial officer (Spr '83), the whole Indiana Love thing is a recent (post 90's) phenomenon and Kappas would not have been teacher their art to any sorority."
** Comment #4-SweetestDiva, 3-07-2002 Location: What you know about them Texas girls?? :) "No, I never saw Omegas with canes. I'd never seen my sorors with canes either though, nor did I expect to. But sure enough, there they were. I'd heard the same thing as DivineZeta, so I never thought much of Sigmas using them. I really don't have an opinion one way or the other, probably because the cane has no significance to me. Which is the argument some would make as to why a person with that perspective shouldn't be stepping with one, I'm sure. That's understandable... I never gave the issue much thought until now and I'm interested to see how Kappas feel about the subject.
Four of my friends share an apartment. Two are Kappas and they share a room. I think there's a total of about 4 to 5 canes up on the wall and they fall every oh.... 10 minutes or so. But the number one house rule is that you don't touch the canes. Doesn't matter if they fall off the wall, fall on the floor, fall on YOU, whatever. One of my LS's made the mistake of reaching to pick one up off the floor... everbody that visits regularly was like.... "NOOOOOO!!!!" I've learned in the greek world that what's ordinary to you can be very significant to another org... so it's just important to be respectful. Sorry for getting so off topic."
** Comment #5: sphinxpoet, 03-08-2002 "And the Kappas have yet to say anything.......I find that interesting but my Kappa sands always says "If people wanted to step with Canes you should have pledged Kappa"
** Comment #6: sphinxpoet, 03-08-2002 "And the Kappas have yet to say anything.......I find that interesting but my Kappa sands always says "If people wanted to step with Canes you should have pledged Kappa" "
** Comment #7: CrimsonTide4, 03-08-2002 "Probably because GC is DEVOID, WITHOUT, MINUS any active, regular KAPPAS."
"I'm new to this, so I hope I'm doing this right. First off I'd like to say that I too have heard that PBS is the orginator of not only cane stepping, but stepping in general. But if it were not true, it's very rude to say that "especially Sigma's" should not be picking up a cane!
I'm a SGRho I have always known my sorors to step w/ canes! We have the same respect for our canes as Kappas. Soror, sorry I have never heard that the Kappa's taught us how to use them in Indy. Furthermore, DoggyStyle it is irrelivant to talk about Indy Luv, b/c that has nothing to do w/ them teaching cane steps. And how would you know what a Kappa would teach? You're not one.
Anyway, I have seen PBS, Kappas, Zetas, Detas, AKAs, and SGRho's all step w/ canes here in the midwest. I understand the feeling of the Kappas. However, it's not like anyone has taken their style. Whether they have a right to be upset, that is something that can not be addressed because no one can control their feelings and people vary. I'm not anal when it comes to someone touching my cane or my letters like some of my sorors. But I do expect RESPECT for organization, meaning as long as they aren't using my cane or wearing my letters I'm cool. However a person wants respect shown is different, and I understand everyone's rational is significant to them. I will say numerous SGRho chapters step with canes, and all I can say is sorors keep on stepping! It's not gonna stop now! Just as long as nobody is stealing someone else's moves, it's all good! Now that's another topic, "Greeks that steal other organizations steps."
Rhapsody in Blue #3-Fall 1997 Blue and Gold Rules Everything Around Me! EEEEEEEEEEEE-YIP!!!!!!!!!!!"
**
Comment #9: Tenacious1922, 03-10-2002 Location: Atlanta "I have to say that when I was an undergrad, the Kappas on my campus worked with us when it came to using canes. So to say that Kappas would not teach SGRho or any other group how to work a cane...is way too general of a statement to make. We appreciated their help and I know they did not mind showing us a few cane steps. They knew we were not trying to claim it as our own, but it was taught to us that SGRho's were the first sorority to really start using canes, in honor of Kappa. My chapter was founded in "87", and my sorors were using canes then, so it is not just an "Indiana Love Thang", And I as well have seen alot of groups use canes or the smaller sticks (sorry...I do not know the proper name). But I have also heard that Sigmas were the first to step with canes as well. So...I guess you could go back and forth on that issue forever. (I do have to give props to those who can step with the canes, because it is not easy! But I can also understand if the Kappas feel as if no-one should use the canes, because it does seems as if we all have borrowed moves, steps, ideas from other orgs., to the point where you have no idea who really started what."
** Comment #10: Anakin1911, 03-12-2002 Location: Kansas City, MO "This is all very amusing. First of all, the "Kane" has a different level of signifiance for Nupes. It is not just something that used as a prop in stepshows. And yes, as a Nupe I have seen other organizations use canes at shows and yes, I have heard that other organizations used canes before it became synonymous with members of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. However, the kane has special significance for us because of what it stands for, so while other groups may appear with them, they are in no way the same "kanes" that Nupes hold dear.
And not to diminish the topic or the replies because the question is an interesting one, but perhaps the Nupes have not replied because this matter has been a trivial one to us for some time. I only decided to add my "two cents" as a point of clarification." -snip- A number of commenters wrote that no member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. had participated in this discussion about other Black Greek letter organizations stepping with kanes (canes).
Comment #11: rhapsody1922, 03-13-2002 Location: Missouri---it's a midwest thang! "Re: Re: The Kane issue
Quote:
Originally posted by DoggyStyle82 Thanks for your info. There is a lot of mis-information out there. Much of it due to the internet. As someone who has spent my greek life with real members at various yards in various geographical areas, I know the answers to your questions.
The Sigmas did not invent stepping
The cane (only Kappas can claim "kane") is not a traditional part of Sigma stepping.
The Sigma pledgees at one time, transitioned from Crescents to Dogs during "Hell Week", but have neva, eva had a "dogmatic" image.
"Hopping" is not native to Sigmas. Its just something else that they have tried to appropriate and try to claim as their own.
The Sigmas have liberally borrowed distinctions from other orgs in an attempt to enhance theirs.
Thats why "kanes" belong to the Nupes. It's their distinguishing characteristic. The Ques have a distinctive image, but now Sigmas strip and get freaky at the step shows, try some "hops", and try to be hard. They tried to do an Omega step at the Philly Greek one year and got wrecked.
Plain and simple, do what you do and stick to it. Leave other peoples "stuff" alone. Why be insecure in who you are and what you do (unless it doesn't work for you).
P.S. This doesn't apply to SGRho if that is a part of your history."
"What do you mean "doesn't apply to SGRho if that is part of your history?" Didn't understand the statement."
**** Comment #12: DoggyStyle 82, 03-14-2002 "Sorry. I don't know where SGRho's history with the cane came from nor how long its been part of your history. I see a lot of them perform with them and some without. I say that I don't know because I never saw many SGRhos until the mid -90's. None of the 70's or 80's Nupes that I know never mentioned a relationship with SGRho or about teaching them the art of "kaning". If the cane is part of your history, I'll take your word for it. It definitely could be the case in the midwest and I'll take a SGRho's word on that before I trust my limited observation of your org."
** Comment #13: DoggyStyle82, 03-14-2002
Originally posted by rhapsody1922 "What do you mean "doesn't apply to SGRho if that is part of your history?" Didn't understand the statement."
Sorry. I don't know where SGRho's history with the cane came from nor how long its been part of your history. I see a lot of them perform with them and some without. I say that I don't know because I never saw many SGRhos until the mid -90's. None of the 70's or 80's Nupes that I know never mentioned a relationship with SGRho or about teaching them the art of "kaning". If the cane is part of your history, I'll take your word for it. It definitely could be the case in the midwest and I'll take a SGRho's word on that before I trust my limited observation of your org."
** Comment #14: DoggyStyle82: 03-14-2002 Quote: Texas_Dove Texas "For anyone interested in learning more about Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. involvement with canes, stepping etc...please check out http://www.sigmahistory.cjb.net. [Pancocojams Editor's note: This website is no longer active as of March 11, 2024.]
I think this website goes a long way in clearing up "misconceptions" about Sigma.
To DoggyStyle82: I understand your position on these matters (I don't agree, but understand your position) and look forward to "chatting" with you in the future.
Thanks for the info. Very interesting and informative. Knowledge beats supposition any day. The old pics with the canes was proof enough so I must acquiesce on that being in their tradition. It must be regional because it is not universal as with the Kappas."
** Comment #15: Bobby Earl, 03-19-2002
Location: baton rouge ..."I am sure that some where down the line, some organizations have bitten the styles of other organizations. Nevertheless, we all have a unique style that is "Often imitated but never duplicated." I don't care how many organizations started with, used, or incorporated a kane into their history."
"NOBODY KNOWS ABOUT KANE like a NUPE (notice I didn't say Kappa) KNOWS ABOUT KANE ... and I'm not just talking about founders either.
You can twirl it, flip it, roll it, catch it and even hook it. But until you get in the KUT , you don't know anything about it!'
Comment #16: carmelafox, 08-18-2002 Location: Austin, Texas "Alphas with canes! That would be some ridiculous stuff to see. I've seen sigmas, sgrhos, AKAs, and even my sorors (DST) use canes so I don't think it should be a big issue. Although the cane is most associated with them men of Kappa Alpha Psi, so it doesn't suprise me that some Kappas may find it offensive to see other organizations use it for show. By the way, the day I see a Que or Alpha pick up a cane is the day pigs fly!"
** Comment #17: agent112, 11-19-2002 Location: Colorado “The truth is.... If some of you greeks stop looking at your fraternal history from the last 3 lines and look deep into the past, you will find that members of each and everyone of your organizations carried canes. In the past, canes were a representation of presitge, wealth, and respect. Canes were a symbol of honor and so, many, many men carried them within the BGLO's.Ques...oh, sorry...Omega men, Alpha's Kappa's and Sigma's. As far as the men of Kappa Alpha Psi goes...they carry it in remembrence of Paul W. Caine who died in 1922 due to an explosion at his business. So understand, to Kappa's, this kane is a connection, a remembrance, and a dedication to a fallen brother. Not mearly a piece of wood with electrical tape around it. To them, it really is sacred. That is why they are so close to it. The men of Phi Beta Sigma were not the first to carry canes, but they were the first to step with them in a rythmic way. You see, stepping is a hand me down of African dance and military drill and ceremony movements. Soldiers returning from the military incorporated these drill movements into what has evolved as modern day stepping. The men of Phi Beta & KAY first used the "walking" version of the cane while the men of KAY eventualy cut the cane and used the shortened version to "twirl" with. And understand this, twirling is very new in comparision of how old the fraternity really is. Twirling became associated with KAY because they "perfected" it if you will. Phi Beta Sigma didn't twirl, they beat the canes on the ground to a rythm, the passed the canes in a ripple fashion, they tossed the canes through the air, but they didn't twirl until after KAY popularized it. Alpha's and Que's abandoned the cane once it became "commercialized" by Phi Beta and KAY. So they embloyed other methods of individualization. And so, to this day, Kappa's and Sigma's carry canes. But for very different reasons.
Like I said, your history runs much deeper then the few ol' heads you see comming back for homecoming. Set yourself on a quest for truth and search. You will be surprised at what you will find.
Once again...Prince Hall Masons lead from the front."
** Comment #18: DoggyStyle82, 11-20-2002 "Dude, I don't know what the heck you are spouting, but da Ques aint never step with canes. No if, ands, or buts. And the cane was not universal among Sigmas as it was with the Kappas. I'm glad that I know my history from real brothers and not was is past through the net as fact."
** Comment #19: agent112, 11-21-2002 Location: Colorado "Listen up hero, you kats have got to read and stop filling in words. We all know Ques didn't step with canes. No one said that. Read highspeed!!! Men, prominent men, members of the organization, great men carried walking canes. Not because they were hurt, not because they had a limp, because it was a symbol of prestige. It was all symbolism hero. Thats how it started young blood. The same way these young chumps run out to get 5 time zone watches and what not. To symbolize that they have advanced from one level to another. Look at you, all bent out of shape because you failed to pay attention to detail. No disrespect intended young man. Just pay closer attention to detail next time."
Furthermore, DoggyStyle it is irrelivant to talk about Indy Luv, b/c that has nothing to do w/ them teaching cane steps. And how would you know what a Kappa would teach? You're not one.
However a person wants respect shown is different, and I understand everyone's rational is significant to them.