History and Legacy of Zeta Phi Beta

Sep 10, 2024

Lecture Notes: Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated

Introduction

  • Lecturer: Mrs. Hutchins, 8th grade science teacher.
  • Celebration: 101st birthday on January 16th, 2021.
  • Mrs. Hutchins has been a member for 21 years, pledged at Zeta University of Louisiana in 1999.

History of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority

  • Founding Details
    • Founded at Howard University, an HBCU.
    • Established on January 16, 1920.
    • Founders: Arizona Cleaver Stemmons, Pearl Anna Neal, Myrtle Tyler Faithful, Viola Tyler Goings, and Fannie Petty Watts.
  • Core Values and Purpose
    • High academic standards, community service, and sisterhood.
    • Aimed to uplift black communities, particularly in segregated areas.
    • Founded with the principles of genuine sisterhood against the elitist nature of early Greek life.

Symbols and Association

  • Colors and Symbols
    • Colors: Royal blue and pure white.
    • Symbols: The dove and the cat.
    • Unique identifier: Making a Z shape when they stroll.
  • Fraternity Association
    • Constitutionally bound to the Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Incorporated.

Sorority Achievements

  • Milestones
    • 1923: First sorority to establish a chapter below the Mason-Dixon line.
    • 1947: First to establish auxiliary groups for youth and non-members.
    • 1948: Chartered a chapter in Monrovia, Liberia, first in Africa.
    • 1949: First sorority to have a centralized headquarters.

Leadership and Legacy

  • Notable Members
    • Prominent figures like Zora Neale Hurston, Gwendolyn Brooks, Sarah Vaughan, Minnie Riperton, Dionne Warwick, and Sheryl Underwood.
  • Cultural Impact
    • Many unsung heroes contributed significantly to the community and the sorority.

Personal Reflection

  • Reasons for Joining
    • Mrs. Hutchins emphasized sisterly love, service, scholarship, and finer womanhood.
    • Expressed excitement about passing on the legacy to the next generation.

Conclusion

  • Encouragement and inspiration to potential new members.