pancocojams: African American fraternities and sororities

Showing posts with label African American fraternities and sororities. Show all posts

Saturday, August 3, 2024

Kamala Harris Joined This Sorority In 1986 (Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc: Information & Two Videos)

Behind The Scenes Production, April 26, 2024

Congratulations to the ladies of AKA sorority incorporated. #alphakappaalpha

****

Edited by Azizi Powell

This pancocojams post showcases two YouTube videos of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.

An excerpt of an online article about Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. is included in this post.

The content of this post is presented for historical, cultural, and political purposes.

All copyrights remain with their owners.

Thanks to all those who are featured in these showcase videos. Thanks also to all those who are quoted in this post and thanks to the publishers of these videos on YouTube.
-snip-
Kamala Harris, the United States Vice President and the 2024 Democratic nominee for President, became a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority in 1986 while she was attending Howard University.

Click https://www.nbcwashington.com/news/local/kamala-harris-alpha-kappa-alpha-sorority-sisters-keep-her-centered-from-howard-university-to-the-vice-presidency/2545340/ for a 2021 article entitled "From Howard University to the Vice Presidency" by Shawn Yancy and Briana Trujillo.

****
PANCOCOJAMS EDITOR'S NOTE
I'm an inactive member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc (Gamma Zeta chapter, New Jersey). I became inactive shortly after I crossed over (officially joined that sorority) toward the end of 1966. I became inactive as I decided to devote my attention to finishing college and working with The Committee For Unified Newark, the afrocentric organization that I had also just joined.

Since that time, the only direct information that I have about historically Black Greek letter organizaions is my attendance at step shows, and knowing friends and other people who have joined these organizations.

One of the main categories of Black history and culture that I focus on in this pancocojams blog is tte history and culture of historically Black Greek letter fraternities and sororities. For example, click https://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2015/04/when-did-historically-black-greek.html for the 2015 pancocojams post entitled "When Did Historically Black Greek Letter Fraternity & Sorority Stepping Begin?"

Click the "Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority" tag and the "African American fraternities and sororities" tag that are found below for other pancocojams posts on those organizations.
-snip-
Notice that in the abbreviation for the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, the letters AKA are pronounced separately with "a" pronounced as it is in the words "say", "may", "day" etc.

****

ARTICLE EXCERPT
From https://www.cnn.com/2024/07/25/us/aka-alpha-kappa-alpha-kamala-harris-cec/index.html "A look at Alpha Kappa Alpha, the legendary sorority repped by Kamala Harris" by Harmeet Kaur, CNN, July 25, 2024
"As long as she’s been on the political scene, Vice President and likely Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris has proudly repped the salmon pink and apple green of Alpha Kappa Alpha, Sorority, Inc.

Alpha Kappa Alpha is a historic African American sorority, founded on the campus of Howard University, Harris’ alma mater. It was the first Black sorority of its kind, and is a part of the “Divine Nine,” a group of Black Pan-Hellenic organizations.

Members of Alpha Kappa Alpha and other groups in the Divine Nine have already rallied to support Harris’ bid for the presidency, networking and organizing to raise millions upon millions of dollars for her campaign. Harris is also a frequent presence at high-profile events, including Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.’s biennial convention earlier this month.

The sorority has been a critical source of support and sisterhood not just for Harris, but for the 360,000 some women across the US and the world that make up its ranks. AKA members are political leaders, civil rights activists, literary icons and scientists, and the sorority’s cultural impact has deep, wide-reaching roots.

“When you become a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha, you become a member for life,” Danette Anthony Reed, international president and CEO of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. told CNN.

[…]

AKA was founded by Black women at Howard University

Alpha Kappa Alpha, or AKA as it’s familiarly known, was founded more than a century ago with the aim of connecting and empowering Black college-educated women. In the years since, AKA has been a springboard for its members to achieve academic and professional success, as well as leadership development and personal growth. The organization has also facilitated numerous community service initiatives across the country.

Groups like Alpha Kappa Alpha were a natural evolution of Greek life on college campuses. The first fraternities and sororities in the US formed in the late 1700s and 1800s as forums where college students could discuss current events and literature outside their strict curriculums, according to Lawrence Ross, author of “The Divine Nine: The History of African American Fraternities and Sororities.”

Greek life at predominantly White institutions eventually expanded and evolved into social clubs, but it excluded students of color. In the early 1900s, at a time of intense racial segregation and disenfranchisement, African American students at White institutions and historically Black colleges and universities founded the Greek letter organizations that make up the Divine Nine with an additional mission: To uplift each other and all Black people.

“It’s very much centered upon not just the college experience, but the notion that those of us who get college educations have a responsibility — not just to our own selves or our own transformation, but the transformation of our communities,” Ross, a member of the historically Black Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. said.

[…]

Its ranks are filled with luminaries

For all of its accomplishments as an organization, perhaps the most enduring legacy of Alpha Kappa Alpha is the individual contributions and achievements of its members.

Women of Alpha Kappa Alpha have populated the highest ranks of their fields, whether in politics, law, literature or science.

Constance Baker Motley was the first female attorney for the Legal Defense Fund and wrote the original complaint in Brown v. Board of Education. The late Democratic Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, a leading champion of Black American issues in Congress, was an AKA, as was Nobel Laureate Toni Morrison.

Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan and Mary Jackson — three Black mathematicians who worked for NASA in the 1950s and were at the center of the film “Hidden Figures” — also were Alpha Kappa Alphas. NASA astronaut Mae Jemison, the first African American woman in space, repped the pink and green, too.

Many more women were initiated into Alpha Kappa Alpha as honorary members, including civil rights icon Rosa Parks, jazz singer Ella Fitzgerald and director Ava DuVernay.”…

****
SHOWCASE VIDEO #2 - AKA 2019 Probate : Serious Matter - Pi Mu Chapter

pearlfection16, Apr 16, 2019

Pi Mu Chapter - Baylor University
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.
-snip-
Click https://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2019/10/alpha-kappa-alpha-sorority-inc-chant.html for the pancocojams post entitled "

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.' Chant "This Is A Serious Matter" (information, lyrics, videos)."

That post includes five text (word only) examples of the AKAs' iconic "This is A Serious Matter" chant. I'm sure there are more examples of that chant, each of which including the words "This is a serious matter". ("This" refers to being a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc.)

Here's one example of that chant:

THIS IS A SERIOUS MATTER (title)
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
-snip-
Click https://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2019/10/alpha-kappa-alpha-sorority-inc-chant.html for more videos and text examples of "This Is A Serious Matter", including my description of how this chant is performed.

****
Thanks for visiting pancocojams.

Visitor comments are welcome.

Thursday, April 18, 2024

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc's Bragging & Dissing Chant "King Tut"

Uploaded by GPPALPHAPOE on Mar 20, 2009

Alpha Phi Alpha stepping on the yard at Fisk University in 1993
-snip-
I've made no attempts to transcribe this video beyond the first few lines:

"King Tut was the very first Greek
When he clapped his hands
He had the ladies at his feet
Aah Tut Tut Tut
Aah Tut Tut Tut." ...
-snip-
For the cultural record, please help document this old school Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc chant by sharing in a comment below the words that you know for this chant along with information about when and where you learned or heard it. Thanks!

****
Edited by Azizi Powell

This pancocojams post presents examples of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Chant "King Tut".

The content of this post is presented for cultural, folkloric, and aesthetic purposes.

All copyrights remain with their owners.

Thanks to all those who are quoted in this post. Thanks also to all those who are featured in these videos and thanks to the publishers of these videos on YouTube.
-snip-
This 2024 post is a reprint of a now deleted pancocojams post on this subject. That post had a different title and a few minor differences in its wording.

The only comment that was added to the discussion thread for that 2012 post was posted by an Anonymous visitor who shared this link to a YouTube video for the University of Michigan yard show which included this chant: "#UofM Yardshow Fall '12 Kappa Eta Alphas". Unfortunately, that video is no longer available on YouTube.

****
STATEMENT ABOUT THIS HISTORICALLY BLACK GREEK LETTER CHANT
Historically Black Greek letter fraternity & sorority chants and songs are part of African American culture. I consider examples of historically Black Greek letter chants & songs and their stepping and strolling performance to be cultural artifacts.

In addition to the cultural and entertainment purposes of these compositions, I believe that fraternity/sorority chants and songs that should be collected, preserved, and studied along with information and comments about those performances their textual structure, wording, and when and how they are used.

However, in accordance with the cultural traditions, I also believe historically Black Greek letter fraternity & sorority chants and songs should only be recited and/or performed by those who are members or prospective members of the specific organization that is affiliated with that particular chant or song.

****
PANCOCOJAMS EDITOR'S NOTES ABOUT THE "KING TUT" CHANT
"King Tut" is an example of an Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc,'s bragging/rival dissin (insulting) chant. As of the publishing date for this pancocojams post (April 18, 20224), I've only come across to three YouTube video examples of this "King Tut" chant. Two of those examples are embedded in this post, and the third example is a short video whose link I didn't save and whose audio and video quality is very poor.

As of April 18, 2024, there are only three comments in the discussion thread for the video that is given as video #1. I wrote one of those comments to inform people about the 2012 post. (I edited that comment with the link to this post.) Here are those two comments:

1. @MissShila, 2009
"wow. 93. I like throwbacks."

**
2. @rozvaker, 2011
"omg I love this Fiskites! Skee-Phi"
-end of quote-
-snip-
As of April 18, 2024, there's only one comment in the discussion thread for the video that is given above. Here's that comment:

@justcallmekay6666,2021

"Spr 21 bro. Thank you so much for posting this. I've been looking for old school chants, probates, and strolls that got lost in my chapter. 06' to the good bros".
-end of quote-

These comments suggest that the "King Tut" chant may not be commonly known among contemporary members of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Members of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., please confirm or correct whether this is true.

I haven't come across any example of this chant that was or is associated with any other Greek letter fraternity or sorority.

****
INFORMATION ABOUT "KING TUT"
In these Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. chants, "King Tut" refers to Tutankhamun, an Egyptian pharaoh of the 18th dynasty (ruled ca. 1332 BC – 1323 BC in the conventional chronology).

Click http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tutankhamun for more information about King Tut.

It's no accident that Egyptian pharoah "King Tut" is the central character in this chant. Ancient Egypt is regarded as the beginning of civilization and Alpha Phi Alpha is the first university based historically Black Greek lettered fraternity*, and its members are referred to as "Sphinxmen". That explains the line "King Tut was the very first Greek".

The word "Greek" in that sentence means "a fraternal organization that uses letters from the Greek alphabet for its name". No reference to the Greek nation (Greece) or the cultural of people from that nation/nationality is intended or alluded to.

Click http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alpha_Phi_Alpha for more information of the Alpha's use of Egyptian references and symbols. One quote from that page indicates that "In 1914, The Sphinx, named after the Egyptian landmark, began publication as the fraternity's journal. [The NAACP's publication'] The Crisis and The Sphinx are respectively the first and second oldest continuously published black journals in the United States."

*That quote from the above linked Wikipedia page also indicates that "Alpha Phi Alpha (ΑΦΑ) is the first Black, Inter-Collegiate Greek-Lettered fraternity. It was founded on December 4, 1906 at Cornell University in Ithaca, New York".

[The italics were added by me for emphasis].
-snip-
*That said, "Sigma Phi Phi [the Boule] is the first African-American Greek-lettered organization. Sigma Pi Phi was founded in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on May 15, 1904.
Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sigma_Pi_Phi

****
THE HISTORICALLY BLACK GREEK LETTER FRATERNITIES THAT ARE MENTIONED IN THIS "KING TUT" CHANT.
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc's chant "King Tut" refers to the four of the five historically Black Greek lettered fraternities that are members of the National Pan-Hellenic Council (informally known as "The Divine Nine" - "Alphas" (Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.), "Ques" (Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc), "Kappas" (Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.), and "Sigmas" (Sigma Phi Beta Fraternity, Inc).

That chant doesn't mention the other Black Greek lettered fraternity that is a member of the "Divine Nine" Pan Hellenic Council, the "Iotas" (Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc). Iota Phi Theta Fraternity was founded in 1963 is the newest member of the Pan Hellenic Council.

Click http://www.blackgreek.com/divinenine/ for information about and a listing of the "Divine Nine" fraternities and sororities.

A lack of reference to the Iotas in versions of "King Tut" suggests that that chant was composed before 1963 and was never updated to include any mention of the Iotas. It might also point to the disinclination of Alpha chanters to change that chant. Another possibility for the lack of reference to the Iotas in this chant (and in many other dissin fraternity chants that I've read) is that the public persona [stereotype/s] for the Iotas hasn't been formed or hasn't been widely circulated yet. However, that seems unlikely given that its been a number of decades since the Iota Phi Theta, Fraternity Inc. was founded.

****
FEATURED TEXT (WORD ONLY) EXAMPLES
(These examples are posted in chronological order based on the date of their initial posting or publication on the website or in the book from which I retrieved them.)

Example #1: KING TUT
All: My-y-y old King Tut
was the very first Greek,
a-a-h when he clapped his hands
he had the ladies at his feet.
A-a-h, Tut, Tut, Tut,
a-a-h, Tut, Tut, Tut.

One brother: I said

All: When he saw the Sigmas,
it made him mad.
When he saw the Kappas,
it made him mad.
A-a-h, when he saw the Ques,
it made him sick.
When he saw the frat,
then he had to pledge quick.
A-a-h, Tut, Tut, Tut,

He had a black and gold whip
nd a black and gold cane,
then he came up
a-a-h with this black and gold name.
A-ha-h A Phi A,
A Phi A,
A Phi A,
-Alpha Phi Alpha, East Tennessee State University, in Soulstepping: African American Step Shows by Elizabeth C. Fine; originally from Thompson, "Aesthetic of Cool", 95-96, transcription by Jane Woodside pf videotape of Dance Heritage Festival, 6 April 1991, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City
-snip-
UPDATE: May 31, 2014
The line "Old King Tut was the very first Greek" means that King Tut was the first person who was member of a historically Black Greek lettered fraternity.

I don't believe that this statement is meant to be taken historically. I think it alludes to the documented that the early Greeks are culturally indebted to the Egyptians.

****
Example #2: KING TUT
King Tut went to Egypt the other day
To Check out the greeks that were coming his way
He saw the Ques, and he said thay acted like a fool
He saw the Kappas, and he said that they were not cute
He saw the Sigmas, and he said that they made him sick
Then he saw the A-PHI!, and he made his pick
-ENewton; http://www.stophazing.org/cgi-bin/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic;f=7;t=000243 ; 09-30-2005

****
Example #3: KING TUT
Ol' King Tut he was the very first frat,
And when he clapped his hands he rocked the house
like that....ahhhh tut...tut...tut...King Tut
ahhh tut...tut...tuh...King Tut,

He looked at the Kappas and it made him mad,
He looked at the Sigmas and it made him sad,
He looked at the Ques and it made him sick,

But when he saw that ALPHA he had to pledge it quick
ahhhh tut.....ahhhh tut.....ahhhh tut!!!
-robelite, http://onolympus.proboards.com/index.cgi?board=life&action=print&thread=1471 E-Greek Chant Off, Mar 5, 2008
-snip-
Here's an excerpt from the comment that this blogger made that preceded this example [Commenting about chants taunting and putting down other frat and bragging about your own frat] "LOL! I was the chant-master in undergrad. :-)....I'm suprised I can remember some of these! :D

Good thing back then was...we could chant at each other all night and NOT have any conflicts! You'd usually see the same ones chanting back and forth at each other at a party later out in the parking lot drinking together."

WARNING: A number of examples on this website contain profanity, explicit sexual references, homophobic references, and a form of what is known as "the n word".

****
SHOWCASE VIDEO #2 - King Tut and Finale - Spring 2011 - Beta Iota Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

Mr. Black Legacy, May 17, 2011

Recorded on March 18, 2011 using a Flip Video camcorder.
-snip-
Notice that the style of steppin in the beginning of this video [.022 -023] mimics the movement of gorillas. Gorillas are a relatively recent symbol of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.*, and apparently have no negative connotation for this Black fraternity (unlike the very negative connotations of gorillas and monkeys as references to African Americans and other Black people.)
-snip-
*I don't know when the gorilla was adopted as the symbol for members of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. But, for what it's worth, my daughter shared with me that she has no recollection of Alphas being associated with gorillas when she attended a Pennsylvania university and attended a number of step shows from 1991-1995.

****
An example of the Alphas' King Tut chant is demonstrated at the end of that video [beginning at 3:11]. Here's my transcription of those words [with the words I'm not quite sure of given in italics]:

Group- Ah what?
One Alpha stepping & chanting - Ah Tut ah Tut ah Tut
I said Oh King Tut
He was the very first Greek
Ah and when he rocked the house
He brought the ladies to their feet.

All - Ah Tut Tut Tut ah King Tut.
Ah Tut Tut Tut ah King Tut.

He drove ah black
Group- [Ah what?]
Ah black
Group-[Ah what?]
He drove ah black and gold chair
With ah black and gold horse
And when he wanted to pledge
He had to charge his course

All - Ah Tut Tut Tut ah King Tut.
Ah Tut Tut Tut ah King Tut.
Ah
Ah
Ah Tut Tut Tut
Ah King Tut.

****
Thanks for visiting pancocojams.

Visitor comments are welcome.

Friday, April 12, 2024

Six YouTube Videos Of Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc. Probates

The Centaur Club, Nov 19, 2021

The Hard Knock Zeta Chi Chapter of IOTA Phi Theta Fraternity Inc presents its Fall 21 lime, I.S CUTTHROAT

****
Edited by Azizi Powell

This is Part V of this pancocojams series. This post showcases six videos of Iota Phi Theta Fraternity Inc. probates.

I'm particularly interested in documenting whether one or more designated member/s of that fraternity holds a decorated staff or some other object and whether neophytes carry a shield during their probate.

However, these videos are given without any descriptions or any comments.

Click https://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2024/04/the-custom-of-designated-members-of.html for Part I of a six part pancocojams series about the custom of designated members of historically Black Greek letter fraternities carrying a mace or holding a staff or some other object during their new members' probate.

That post presents my conclusions about this custom based on my informal online research (i.e. by watching a number of YouTube videos).

This post also includes online comments or information about this custom.

Click https://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2024/04/videos-of-designated-members-of-alpha.html for Part II of this pancocojams series. That post showcases six videos of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. probates.

Click https://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2024/04/six-youtube-videos-of-omega-psi-phi.html for Part III of this pancocojams series. That post showcases six videos of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.probates.

Click https://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2024/04/six-youtube-videos-of-kappa-alpha-psi.html for Part IV of this pancocojams series. That post showcases six videos of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. probates.

Click https://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2024/04/six-youtube-videos-of-phi-beta-sigma.html for Part V of this pancocojams series. That post showcases six videos of Phi Beta SigmaFratrnity, Inc. probates

I believe that those close contact styles were/are influenced by the South African Venda's [ethnic population] Domba dance which is also known as "the python dance". Click https://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2013/01/similarities-between-venda-python-dance_7.html for a 2013 pancocojams post entitled "Similarities Between The Venda (South Africa) Python Dance & Historically African American Greek Letter Sororities Probate Line Formations".

****
SHOWCASE VIDEOS OF IOTA PHI THETA FRATERNITY INC. PROBATES

These videos are given in chronological order based on their publishing date on YouTube.

SHOWCASE VIDEO #1

This video is given at the top of this page.

****
SHOWCASE VIDEO #2 - Iota Phi Theta Theta Omicron Chapter Probate Spr. 2k17

Indestructible Films, Apr 18, 2017

****
SHOWCASE VIDEO #3 - The Zeta Chi Chapter of Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc. Fall 2020 New Member Presentation

The Milas Touch, Aug 10, 2021

Georgia Southern University -

The Zeta Chi chapter of Iota Phit Theta Fraternity, Inc. Presents their Fall '20 Line: I.S Jailbreak

****
SHOWCASE VIDEO #4 - 2022 UMES Iota Phi Theta Probate

Reggie Nance, Apr 17, 2022

****

SHOWCASE VIDEO #5 - Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc. (Gamma Iota Chapter) | Spring '23 New Member Presentation

WavyyMb, Jul 13, 2023

The Spr '23 New Member Presentation of The Go Hard or Go Home, Gamma Iota Chapter of Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc.

Shot by @DreVinciWrks On Instagram

Dean - Quwayne Thompson, Spr '21 @__quee1x

AD - Mark Lovell, Spr '21 @_Mark.Lovez_

Follow the Neo On Instagram @wavyymb

Shoutout to the brothers of Iota Phi Theta at Montclair State University!

@montclairiotas8901

****
SHOWCASE VIDEO #6 - Howard University Iota Phi Theta Fraternity Inc. Alpha Tau Chapter Probate | Spring '24

All That Coin, Apr 6, 2024

****
This concludes Part VI of this pancocojams series.

Thanks for visiting pancocojams.

Visitor comments are welcome.

Six YouTube Videos Of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. Probates

Trevon Facey, Apr 3, 2012

PHI BETA SIGMA Probate GAMMA GAMMA CHAPTER 2K12 @ North Carolina Central University (NCCU) Congratulations to PHASE 4: Unpredictable TakeOver

****
Edited by Azizi Powell

This is Part V of this pancocojams series. This post showcases six videos of Phi Beta Sigma, Fraternity Inc. probates.

That post presents my conclusions about this custom based on my informal online research (i.e. by watching a number of YouTube videos).

This post also includes online comments or information about this custom.

Click https://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2024/04/videos-of-designated-members-of-alpha.html for Part II of this pancocojams series. That post showcases six videos of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. probates.

Click https://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2024/04/six-youtube-videos-of-omega-psi-phi.html for Part III of this pancocojams series. That post showcases six videos of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. probates.

Click https://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2024/04/six-youtube-videos-of-kappa-alpha-psi.html for Part IV of this pancocojams series. That post showcases six videos of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. probates.

Click https://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2024/04/six-youtube-videos-of-iota-phi-theta.html for Part VI of this pancocojams series. That post showcases six videos of Iota Phi Theta Fraternity Inc probates.

****
SHOWCASE VIDEOS OF PHI BETA SIGMA FRATERNITY INC. PROBATES

These videos are given in chronological order based on their publishing date on YouTube.

SHOWCASE VIDEO #1

This video is given at the top of this page.

****
SHOWCASE VIDEO #2 - "Blu Jack City" Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Probate Spring 2019 Coastal Carolina University

Crispygawd Apr 12, 2019

The Beta Beta Iota Chapter of Phi Beta Sigma Presents "Blu Jack City" Spring 2019 Edition

****
SHOWCASE VIDEO #3 - Phi Beta Sigma probate 2022

Torrey Purvey. Mar 11, 2022 #LangstonUniversity

My name is Torrey Purvey. I'm an educator and photographer. My photos used for ESPN, Essence Magazine, Sports Illustrated, LA Times and other fashion show entities

****
SHOWCASE VIDEO #4 - MORGAN STATE SIGMAS NEOPHYTE SHOW FALL '23 FULL SHOW (GAMMA CHAPTER)

Grand Tour Media, Nov 24, 2023

Filmed and Edited by: Grand Tour Media

****
SHOWCASE VIDEO #5 - Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc. Spring 2024 New Member Presentation

Jason Gray, Apr 2, 2024

Arkansas Baptist College

****
SHOWCASE VIDEO #6 - Howard University Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. Alpha Chapter Probate | Spring '24

All That Coin, Apr 5, 2024

Get ready to witness the ultimate display of brotherhood and excellence as Phi Beta Sigma fraternity takes center stage at Howard University's Spring 2024 Probate! Join us for an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at this electrifying event, where the newest members of Phi Beta Sigma step into the spotlight and embrace their roles as leaders and change-makers.

In this captivating video, immerse yourself in the energy and excitement as the brothers of Phi Beta Sigma prepare to introduce their latest additions to the world. From the intense rehearsals to the moments of celebration and camaraderie, experience the dedication, passion, and sense of community that define the Phi Beta Sigma experience at Howard University.

Follow along as we journey through the historic campus of Howard University, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere and rich tradition that surrounds this iconic institution. From the iconic landmarks to the diverse and dynamic student body, Howard University sets the stage for an unforgettable evening of brotherhood and empowerment.

Whether you're a member of the fraternity, a proud supporter, or simply curious about Greek life at Howard University, this video promises to captivate and inspire. Don't miss out on this exclusive glimpse into the Phi Beta Sigma Spring 2024 Probate ....

****
This concludes Part V of this pancocojams series.

Thanks for visiting pancocojams.

Visitor comments are welcome.

Six YouTube Videos Of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. Probates

MyState Productions, Mar 24, 2013

"Big AL" Alpha Lambda Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Probate on March 22, 2013 in Smith Hammond Memorial Center.

****
Edited by Azizi Powell

This is Part IV of this pancocojams series. This post showcases six videos of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. probates.

I'm particularly interested in documenting whether one or more designated member/s of that fraternity holds a decorated staff or some other object and whether neophytes carry a shield during their probate.

However, these videos are given without any descriptions or any comments.

That post presents my conclusions about this custom based on my informal online research (i.e. by watching a number of YouTube videos).

This post also includes online comments or information about this custom.

Click https://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2024/04/videos-of-designated-members-of-alpha.html for Part II of this pancocojams series. That post showcases six videos of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. probates.

Click https://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2024/04/six-youtube-videos-of-omega-psi-phi.html for Part III of this pancocojams series. That post showcases six videos of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. probates.

Click https://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2024/04/six-youtube-videos-of-phi-beta-sigma.html for Part V of this pancocojams series. That post showcases six videos of Phi Beta Sigma, Fraternity Inc. probates.

****
SHOWCASE VIDEOS OF KAPPA ALPHA PSI FRATERNITY INC. PROBATES

These videos are given in chronological order based on their publishing date on YouTube, except for Showcase Video #1

SHOWCASE VIDEO #1

This video is given at the top of this page.

****
SHOWCASE VIDEO #2 - The Legendary Lambda Pi Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. Fall ‘18 New Member Presentation

// SHOTBYJHINDS, Dec 3, 2018

****
SHOWCASE VIDEO #3 - Kappa Alpha Psi Spring 19, ZZ MVSU

Sidney Stevenson Jr, Apr 9, 2019

****
SHOWCASE VIDEO #4 - T4 Visuals | Southern University Alpha Sigma Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Supreme 16 Probate 2023

T4 Visuals, Apr 10, 2023

****

SHOWCASE VIDEO #5 - Gamma Rho Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fall 23 Probate

RSEdits, Nov 14, 2023

The Gamma Rho Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi held a Neophyte Presentation November 10th for their newest initiates.

****
SHOWCASE VIDEO #6 - Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. | Alpha Xi Chapter | Florida A&M University |Spr. 23 Initiates

The Kidd Creations, Jan 1, 2024

Alpha Xi Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. at Florida A&M University focusing on Chris Hutt

****
This concludes Part IV of this pancocojams series.

Thanks for visiting pancocojams.

Visitor comments are welcome.

Six YouTube Videos Of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. Probates

MisterHaynes99, Aug 11, 2013

2013 Omega Psi Phi TAU chapter probate B.A.Q.Y.A.R.D 11

****
Edited by Azizi Powell

This is Part III of this pancocojams series. This post showcases six videos of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. probates.

I'm particularly interested in documenting whether one or more designated member/s of that fraternity holds a decorated staff or some other object and whether neophytes carry a shield during their probate.

However, these videos are given without any descriptions or any comments.

Click https://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2024/04/the-custom-of-designated-members-of.html for Part I of a six part pancocojams series about the custom of designated members of historically Black Greek letter fraternities carrying a mace or holding a staff or some other object during their new members' probate.

That post presents my conclusions about this custom based on my informal online research (i.e. by watching a number of YouTube videos).

****
SHOWCASE VIDEOS OF OMEGA PSI PHI FRATERNITY INC. PROBATES

These videos are given in chronological order based on their publishing date on YouTube, except for Showcase Video #1

SHOWCASE VIDEO #1

This video is given at the top of this page.

****

SHOWCASE VIDEO #2 - Omega Psi Phi - Chi Theta - Spring 2014 Probate

Tamaira Heyward, Apr 22, 2014

****
SHOWCASE VIDEO #3 - Omega Psi Phi : Beta Chapter Spring 2018 Probate (FULL MOVIE

Grand Tour Media, Apr 22, 2018

Beta Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.

****
SHOWCASE VIDEO #4 -Omega Psi Phi - Majestic ΨΨ Chapter - Fall 2022 Probate | Kentucky State University @Dondarii 🎥

3 Headed Goat Prod., Dec 2, 2022

****
SHOWCASE VIDEO #5-Bring Em’ Out - 💜💛 #SCSU 💜💛 XiPsiQues / Omega Psi Phi Spr. 23 Probate

Karen Lady Kay Hilton Sanders, Apr 6, 2023

****
SHOWCASE VIDEO #6 - Upsilon Psi Spr24 Probate

MyEyeView, Premiered Mar 29, 2024 FAMU - HANSEL TOOKES STUDENT RECREATION CENTER

Spring 2024 new member presentation for the Might Melodic Bloody-Up Upsilon Psi Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.

****
This concludes Part III of this pancocojams series.

Thanks for visiting pancocojams.

Visitor comments are welcome.

Six YouTube Videos Of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Probates

GI_ALPHAS, Apr 3, 2023 HAMPTON UNIVERSITY

The Gamma Iota Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. , seated at Hampton University. Spring 2023 Neophyte Presentation

Videographer: @GrandTourMedia

****
Edited by Azizi Powell

This is Part II of this pancocojams series. This post showcases six videos of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. probates.

I'm particularly interested in documenting whether one or more designated member/s of that fraternity holds a decorated staff or some other object and whether neophytes carry a shield during their probate.

However, these videos are given without any descriptions or any comments.

That post presents my conclusions about this custom based on my informal online research (i.e. by watching a number of YouTube videos).

This post also includes online comments or information about this custom.

Click https://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2024/04/six-youtube-videos-of-omega-psi-phi.html for Part III of this pancocojams series. That post showcases six videos of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. Inc. probates.

****

SHOWCASE VIDEOS OF ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY INC. PROBATES
These videos are given in chronological order based on their publishing date on YouTube, except for

SHOWCASE VIDEO #1

This video is given at the top of this page.

****

SHOWCASE VIDEO #2 -Alpha Phi Alpha - Gamma Nu Chapter - Fall 2013 | COUP D'ÉTAT: DEFY AND CONQUER

Penn State Alphas, Jun 9, 2014

Fall 2013, COUP D'ÉTAT: DEFY AND CONQUER, of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated by way of the MIGHTY Gamma Nu Chapter!

****

SHOW VIDEO #3- Fall 2013 | Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. | Hampton University

TheHU UnderGround, Dec 2, 2013

Gamma Iota Chapter

Shot & Edited By: Brett Harris

Directed By: Andrew Nguyen

Hampton University

****

SHOWCASE VIDEO #4 - Alpha Phi Alpha Spring 2018 Probate

Alpha Eta Chapter Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Apr 20, 2018 #AHForever #WatchTheYard

Probate video of the Alpha Eta Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. (St. Louis Alphas) Spring 2018 initiates located in St. Louis, Missouri. The probate was performed at Harris-Stowe State University (HSSU) the only HBCU in St. Louis

****
SHOWCASE VIDEO #5 - Eta Gamma Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. | Spring 2023 Probate

PV Alphas, Apr 6, 2023

Eta Gamma Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Located at Prairie View A&M University.

Video shot by Rhomel Dudley.

****

SHOWCASE VIDEO #6 - Howard University Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. Beta Chapter Probate | Spring '24

All That Coin, Apr 5, 2024

Prepare to be blown away as Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity takes Howard University by storm in their highly anticipated Spring 2024 Probate! Join us for an exclusive insider's look at this monumental event, where the newest members of Alpha Phi Alpha step into the spotlight and embrace their journey as leaders and changemakers.

In this electrifying video, immerse yourself in the excitement and camaraderie as the brothers of Alpha Phi Alpha prepare to introduce their newest additions to the world. From the intense rehearsals to the moments of celebration and unity, experience the dedication, passion, and sense of brotherhood that define the Alpha Phi Alpha experience at Howard University.

Follow along as we navigate through the iconic campus of Howard University, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere and rich history that surrounds this esteemed institution. From the historic landmarks to the diverse and dynamic student body, Howard University provides the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable evening of empowerment and legacy.

Whether you're a member of the fraternity, a proud supporter, or simply intrigued by the allure of Greek life at Howard University, this video promises to captivate and inspire. Don't miss out on this exclusive glimpse into the Alpha Phi Alpha Spring 2024 Probate – like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on all the latest content from our channel. Get ready to witness history in the making!

Share with only your closest friends 🤫

****

This concludes Part II of this pancocojams series.

Thanks for visiting pancocojams.

Visitor comments are welcome.

The Custom Of Designated Members Of Historically Black Greek Letter Fraternities Holding A Staff Or Some Other Object/s During Their Organizations' Probate

Edited by Azizi Powell

This Is Part I of a six part pancocojams series about the custom of designated members of historically Black Greek letter fraternities holding a staff or some other object during their new members' probates.

This post presents my conclusions about this custom based on my informal online research (i.e. by watching about a 100 YouTube videos of historically Black Greek letter sorority and fraternity probates. I watched these somewhat randomly selected videos between April 4, 2024 through April 12, 2024).

Click https://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2024/04/six-youtube-videos-of-omega-psi-phi.html for Part III of this pancocojams series. That post showcases six videos of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. Inc. probates. These videos are given without any descriptions or any comments.

Click https://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2024/04/six-youtube-videos-of-kappa-alpha-psi.html for Part IV of this pancocojams series. That post showcases six videos of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc. probates that include designated members. These videos are given without any descriptions or any comments.

The content of this post is presented for historical, folkloric, cultural, and aesthetic purposes.

All copyrights remain with their owners.

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 all those who are quoted in this post and thanks to all those who are featured in these embedded videos as well as the producers and publishers of these videos.
-snip-
Click https://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2024/04/the-historically-black-greek-letter.html for the closely related pancocojams series about the custom of designated members of historically Black Greek letter sororities carrying a mace or holding a staff during their organization's probates.
-snip-
Documenting how historically Black Greek letter fraternity and sorority probates wouldn't be complete without information about the close contact processional styles that the neophytes have when they enter the probate performance area.

****
DISCLAIMER
I consider this pancocojams series on historically Black Greek letter fraternity custom of carrying a mace or holding a staff during probates (new members public presentations) to be a work in progress.

I haven't found any articles online or offline about these customs and I haven't spoken to anyone about these customs.

Hopefully, this series will result in documentation, discussion, and research on this subject.
****
INFORMATION ABOUT THIS CUSTOM
The information in this post and in Part I of the companion series on this custom as practiced by historically Black Greek letter sororities is based on the conclusions that I reached from watching a number of YouTube videos of historically Black Greek letter probates.

Click https://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2024/04/the-historically-black-greek-letter.html for that companion post with the title: "The Historically Black Greek Letter Sorority Custom Of Designated Members Carrying A Mace Or Holding A Staff During Probates (Part I - Information & Comments)".

For the historical and cultural record, please add and correct information about this custom in this post's comment section below. Thanks!
****
EXPLANATION OF SOME TERMS
A "probate" is the first time that new members of historically Greek letter sororities or fraternities are introduced to the general public. The older terms "crossing over" and/or "coming out" were used in 1966 when I became a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc (Gamma Zeta chapter, New Jersey).

"Crossing over" metaphorically means stepping into the land where members of that Greek letter organization dwell). While some YouTube videos of this historically Black Greek letter organization event used the term "probates", it appears to me that most videos used the term "new member presentation" or some similar terms.

"Neos" (neophytes) are new members of a specific historically Black Greek letter sorority or fraternity.

****
WHEN DID THE CUSTOM BEGIN?
YouTube videos of designated members of historically Black Greek letter fraternities holding a staff or some other objects (such as canes, decorated sticks, paddles, and/or flags) are a small subset of YouTube videos of those fraternities stepping and strolling.

Based on my admittedly informal research of watching probate videos of historically Black Greek letter fraternities the earliest date for a YouTube video that I've come across of historically Black Greek letter fraternities with this probate custom is from 2013 (Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.). 2013 is in contrast to 2009, the earliest date that I came across for a YouTube video of members of a historically Black Greek letter sorority (Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc.) carrying a decorated or undecorated mace (i.e. the sticks that drum majors carry) during a probate. I didn't come across any YouTube video example of members of historically Black Greek letter fraternities holding maces decorated or otherwise.

As I noted in my post on historically Black Greek letter sororities https://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2024/04/the-historically-black-greek-letter.html , this custom of designated members of a sorority (and not the new members of that sorority) carrying a mace during a probate eventually gave way to the custom of designated members holding a staff. The multiple YouTube videos (around 100) that I watched of Divine 9 probates suggests that the custom of carrying a staff was first done by sororities, but the custom of sorority members carrying a mace may have been an adaptation of fraternity members carrying a walking stick.

From the YouTube videos that I watched it appears that Divine 9 sororities included the custom of holding decorated staffs before Divine 9 fraternities, but further research needs to be done to substantiate that. Based on the YouTube videos that I have watched, it appears that it wasn't until around 2018 that the custom of designated members of certain historically Black Greek letter fraternities carrying a decorated staff became relatively common.

From the YouTube videos that I watched, it appears that Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity is the Divine 9 fraternity that most consistently follows the custom of designated members holding a staff with the fraternity's letters on it during a probate. Members of Kappa Apha Psi carried small crimson and cream canes on their arms for the use of neos during their probate show. in some videos that I watched, members of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity carried tall sticks decorated in their organization's official colors of royal blue and pure white. And in some videos member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity carried tall sticks decorated in their organization's official colors of crimson and cream. In both cases those sticks might be considered substitutes for maces. Some Iota Phi Theta Fraternity probate videos have the members-not the neos- carrying a shovel, an object that has esoteric meaning for that fraternity.

I've only come across one YouTube videos as of the publication date of this pancocojams post (April 12, 2024) of members of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. adhering to this custom if you count holding lit torches or torch-like sticks as part of this custom. That video and some other Omega Psi Phi Fraternity videos are showcased in this pancocojams series. Of course, this doesn't mean that there are no chapters of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity that don't adhere to the custom of carrying staffs during probates.

In at least one Omega Psi Phi Fraternity video that showed neos on probate proceeding to their new presentation event, a member of that organization was shown with a dog (a pit bull?)" in leash. In that video and in some others the men on probate wore gold dog collars and mimicked the attack and barking actions of dogs when they were approached by the members who were responsible for pledging them.

****

WHO CARRIES THESE STAFFS?
The staffs in these probate videos that I have watched are only carried or held by certain members of the fraternities. It's likely that the men who carry the staffs are the DP (Dean of Pledges) and the ADP (Assistant Dean of Pledges) along with their other members of the fraternities who help them (particularly in the case of large lines i.e. groups of pledges.

A "pledge" is a person who is in the process of becoming a member of that Greek letter organization. When a pledge "crosses over" (officially joins that sorority) she is referred to as a "neophyte" ("neo").

****
HOW ARE THESE STAFFS DECORATED?
Based on the videos that I've watched, it appears that most of the staffs that are held during historically Black Greek letter probates are decorated with the Greek letters of the fraternity and that fraternity's founding date.

These staffs may (also) be painted or decorated in one or both of the two official colors of that fraternity.
.
These staffs aren't as highly decorated as the staffs that are held by designated members of historically Black Greek letter sororities. In keeping with American cultural norms, these fraternity staffs don't have any flowers or glittering decorations.

****
WHAT OTHER OBJECTS THAT ARE CARRIED OR HELD DURING THESE PROBATES?
The YouTube videos of historically Black Greek letter fraternities probates includes some scenes of designated members carrying flags with the name of their fraternities. I didn't notice any flags in videos of historically Black Greek letter sorority probates.

I also came across some YouTube videos of members of these fraternities carrying what appeared to be wooden paddles..

One major difference that I noticed between these fraternity probates and sorority probates is that in a lot of Divine Nine fraternities the neos carry a shield or just the first person in that fraternity line carries a shield. (The first person in a historically Black Greek letter fraternity or sorority line is called the "ace".)

In the YouTube videos that I watched this probate custom of the ace holding a shield was limited to members of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. and Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc.

In many YouTube videos of historically Black Greek letter fraternities the men "on line" (i.e. pledges) wear partial or complete face masks. Only a few YouTube videos of Divine nine sorority probates showed neos wearing any masks.

A number of videos of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity showed their neos carrying lanterns which is a symbol with esoteric meaning for that fraternity.

****
WHAT ARE THE CULTURAL INFLUENCES ON THIS CUSTOM?
The major cultural influences that I noted in the first post in this pancocojams series about this custom historically Black Greek letter sororities also influenced this custom among most of the Divine 9 fraternities.

Listed in no particular order, I believe these cultural influences were (are)
1. African American drum majors carrying maces
2. Egyptian Gods, Goddesses, and royalty carrying staffs
3. Mardi Gras Indians carrying decorated staffs.

In addition to those cultural influences, my guess is that the custom of historically Black Greek letter fraternities and sororities carrying staffs has also been influenced by other African cultures, including Zulu (South African) customs.

African Americans could have learned South African [and other African customs besides those of Egypt and South Africa) in a number of ways, including the mass media (before the internet), through books/magazines, cultural travel to South Africa, as well as through South African dance groups performing in the United States and/or South African students studying at historically Black colleges and universities in the United States.

In the 1970s and 1980s with the rise of pride in our African ancestry, on African Americans were particularly fascinated with the image if not the real history of Shaka Zulu.

Video #1

Zulu Men (Amabutho)

SeeYa Films, Jun 28, 2021

These are Zulu men dressed in their traditional attire singing their traditional songs.

****
Video #2

[WARNING: This YouTube video includes topless women]

Unity in Motion: Celebrating Zulu Heritage Through Tribal Dance 🕺💃

Tekweni, Oct 27, 2012

****
This concludes Part I of this pancocojams series.

Thanks for visiting pancocojams.

Visitor comments are welcome

Translate

Saturday, August 3, 2024

****

Thursday, April 18, 2024

Friday, April 12, 2024

Edited by Azizi Powell