Demystifying the Divine Nine: Beyond the Stereotypes

When you hear about Black fraternities and sororities of the Divine Nine, what comes to mind? For some, it’s images of vibrant step shows, synchronized strolls, and colorful paraphernalia. While these elements are part of the culture, they are just a sliver of what these organizations represent. 

The Divine Nine—comprising Alpha Phi Alpha, Alpha Kappa Alpha, Kappa Alpha Psi, Omega Psi Phi, Delta Sigma Theta, Phi Beta Sigma, Zeta Phi Beta, Sigma Gamma Rho and Iota Phi Theta—has a rich history rooted in service, scholarship and social justice. Their impact extends far beyond the yard, shaping communities and empowering generations.

“There are so many MYTHS that surround these organizations that have represented scholarship, local & global service to the community, economic development, political advancement and empowerment for all while elevating the definition of brother/sisterhood through action worldwide,” said author LaDawn Elliot, who is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. “And now in the era of social media, you see so many passing judgment on organizations they really know nothing about.”

Personal experience

As a proud 35-year member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, I have been blessed to experience the profound power of sisterhood and service. Alongside 15 extraordinary women, I pledged the Delta Xi Chapter at the University of Texas at Austin, forming friendships that have remained unshakable through the years. These bonds have been a source of unwavering support, propelling my career as an author and inspiring me to reach greater heights. In fact, I’ve become one of the country’s top African American authors because of the support of not just members of my organization, but the Divine 9 in general. Amid the demands of my busy life, I find solace and purpose in giving back alongside my sorority sisters, unified by our shared commitment to the motto, “Service to All Mankind.” Through Alpha Kappa Alpha and the Divine Nine community, I have gained not only lifelong friendships but also the opportunity to uplift others while continuing to grow in grace and purpose. This is what being a part of the Divine Nine is all about.

Breaking down the stereotypes

Too often, the Divine Nine are reduced to superficial stereotypes: flashy parties, social cliques and exclusive membership. These misconceptions obscure the foundational purpose of these organizations: to uplift and serve the Black community. There are a number of myths/stereotypes surrounding each individual organization, but we take a look at general myths that apply across the board.

Myth 1: It’s all about socializing

Yes, Divine Nine members know how to have a good time, but their mission is grounded in service and leadership. Each organization is built on principles like academic excellence, community service and advocacy. Each organization has core program thrusts that work to uplift their communities. In Houston, Divine Nine chapters host voter registration drives, provide scholarships, mentor youth and support local charities.

“There is a belief that sororities or fraternities are nothing more than social clubs. Stop linking us to white Sororities and Fraternities. They not like us,” said Barbara Bagneris, a member of Delta Sigma Theta.

Myth 2: It’s only for college students

While membership often begins in college, the commitment lasts a lifetime. Alumni chapters are a cornerstone of the Divine Nine, maintaining a strong presence in Houston. These chapters engage in everything from disaster relief efforts to economic empowerment programs, demonstrating that the bond of brotherhood and sisterhood is lifelong.

“I love the intimacy of my sisterhood and the impact we have on our local communities. I equally love that we are growing and stretching in our service,” said Cynthia Smalls.

Myth 3: It’s exclusive and elitist

While there is a selective membership process, the Divine Nine’s goal is not exclusivity but excellence. Members are chosen for their commitment to the organization’s values and their potential to contribute to its mission. In Houston, these members are everyday heroes: educators, entrepreneurs, healthcare workers and activists.

Myth 4: Being a member of a Greek org goes against God

This is perhaps one of the most erroneous things most members of the Divine Nine have heard. Contrary to misconceptions, Black Greek-letter organizations (BGLOs) are deeply rooted in Christian principles, with many founding members guided by their faith to create spaces of upliftment, unity, and service. These organizations were established to foster leadership, scholarship, and community service while honoring God through their actions. Rituals, mottos, and traditions often reflect biblical teachings, promoting values such as love, charity, and humility. Rather than opposing faith, BGLOs provide members with opportunities to serve as God’s hands and feet in the world, embodying their commitment to spiritual and social growth. The myth that these organizations conflict with God ignores their historical and ongoing mission to uplift humanity in alignment with Christian values.

“As a Christian, I’ve often heard being in a Greek organization meant I was somehow serving an idol,” said TL Still. “It was the first question I asked someone who was a member of Sigma Gamma Rho before I joined. Her response to me was ‘Can anything separate you from God?’ I said ‘No.’ She said ‘Then how can my organization separate you from God?’ She won me with her argument.”

Myth 5: That Black Greeks don’t get along

The myth that Black Greek-letter organizations from the Divine Nine don’t get along is far from the truth. While friendly competition and playful rivalries exist, these organizations are united by a shared mission of upliftment, service, and excellence within the Black community. From collaborating on service projects to supporting one another’s initiatives, members of the Divine Nine often work hand in hand to address social issues, provide scholarships, and uplift underserved communities. In fact, many friends and family members are in separate Greek orgs.

“You may think that me (am AKA) and my BFF and entire family of Deltas are beefing when we banter but we have an understanding that goes much beyond explaining. It’s sibling rivalry but it is truly all love. People often assign negative connotations to those things which they lack understanding of,” said Erika Wilson.

Added Nichole Holtz-Hill, “I come from a strong Delta family. My great-aunt allowed us to follow our own path. I chose AKA but I am so close with Deltas that I went to college with.”

“When we were young there was always competition to be the best amongst other sororities and fraternities in the name of our esteemed founders. As adults the competition continues, but to be the best for our people,” said LaKeitha Anderson.

The bond among these organizations is rooted in a deep respect for their collective history and purpose, proving that unity—not division—is at the heart of the Divine Nine.

Landis Lain, a Delta, summed it up best: “We are the same tree different branches. We do not hate each other.”

The Divine Nine was founded during a time when Black Americans were systematically excluded from mainstream institutions. These organizations became sanctuaries for Black excellence, fostering leaders like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. (Alpha Phi Alpha), Shirley Chisholm (Delta Sigma Theta), and Thurgood Marshall (Alpha Phi Alpha). Today, that legacy lives on in Houston, where members continue to lead with purpose and integrity.