Congress Honors Delta Sigma Theta Sorority's 113th Anniversary, Recognizing Global Service Work

This resolution is purely commemorative, a formal recognition by the legislature of the 113th anniversary of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated. It’s not about passing a new law or changing a regulation; it’s about giving an official legislative nod to the organization’s history and impact. The bill specifically acknowledges the sorority’s founding on January 13, 1913, by 22 women at Howard University, and lists all their names, cementing their place in the official record.

More Than a Century of Service

For most people, this resolution won't change anything in their daily routine, but it highlights the kind of long-term civic work that often flies under the radar. The resolution details the sorority’s massive scope: over 350,000 predominantly African-American college-educated women, with chapters spanning the globe from the U.S. to Kenya and Japan. This isn't just a local club; it’s a global network of service professionals.

The Five Pillars of Impact

The core of the recognition focuses on the sorority’s Five-Point Program Thrust, which is essentially their mission statement for community action. This covers Economic Development (like the Financial Fortitude initiative, which helps people with personal financial planning), Educational Development (including the Dr. Betty Shabazz Delta Academy for young women), International Awareness and Involvement, Physical and Mental Health, and Political Awareness and Involvement. This means the resolution is recognizing groups that are actively working on everything from voter registration drives to maintaining a hospital in Thika, Kenya.

Recognizing Leadership and Legacy

The resolution also serves to honor the legacy of distinguished members who have made significant contributions to public life. It name-checks heavy hitters like Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm, Senator Carol Moseley Braun, and Secretary Marcia Fudge. For those interested in history and civic leadership, this is an official acknowledgement that these women, through their affiliation with the sorority, have had a massive impact on the nation. Ultimately, this resolution is a formal commendation, applauding the organization and its members for more than a century of "fortitude and distinguished service" to the global community.