Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority Calls Out Trump For ‘Shameful’ Remark About VP Kamala Harris’ Biennial Boule Appearance
Democratic Presidential candidate and Vice President Kamala Harris delivers remarks during the Sigma Gamma Rho’s 60th International Biennial Boule at the George R. Brown Convention Center on July 31, 2024, in Houston, Texas. | Source: Brandon Bell / Getty
Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., a member of the legendary Divine Nine, is calling out Donald Trump for his insensitive remarks about Vice President Kamala Harris’ recent visit to Houston, Texas, for the 60th Biennial Boule event.
Harris, who attended Howard University, where she was initiated into the esteemed Alpha Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, connected with thousands of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority members at the Biennial Boule event, held from July 31 to Aug. 4, at the George R. Brown Convention Center. It was the organization’s first Boule in Houston since 1996.
Howard University Source: The Washington Post / Getty
During the event, Sigma Gamma Rho focused on advancing its five core national programs that not only raised over $550,000, but generated a whopping $10 million in economic impact to support local organizations in the Houston area, according to a press release. The funds will be directed towards maternal health, mental health, general wellness, and education initiatives.
“The public meeting was an opportunity to commemorate the philanthropic efforts of our sisterhood,” said Marica T. Harris, the organization’s 26th International Grand Basileus, in a statement to NewsOne.“Vice President Kamala Harris brought forth greetings to an audience of ten thousand community leaders, entrepreneurs, civic leaders, and corporate partners.”
During an Aug. 21 interview with conservative political commentator, Hugh Hewitt, Trump diminished the value of the historic gathering by dismissing it simply as “a party,” that ignored the funds it raises to support Black communities in need.
His exact words:
“She went to a sorority party and a very unimportant one,” the 78-year-old Republican told Hewitt. “They have them numerous times during the year. It’s a shame.”
Trump attacks Kamala Harris for attending a Black sorority event: “A very unimportant one” pic.twitter.com/jEOBtxKiX5
— Kamala HQ (@KamalaHQ) August 21, 2024
What is the Divine Nine?
It’s certainly a shame that Donald Trump has no clue about the importance of sororities like Sigma Gamma Rho and the power that they hold for Black students and alumni nationwide. The Divine Nine refers to the nine historically Black Greek-letter organizations within the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC).
Established in the early 20th century, these groups—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—were created to build community, foster leadership, and offer support during a time when Black students faced significant educational barriers. These organizations play a vital role in providing a strong sense of belonging and crucial resources for HBCU students, especially Black students attending predominantly white institutions.
Moreover, the Divine Nine focuses on providing members with personal development, mentorship, and resources that support both personal and professional growth. They are actively engaged in community service and advocacy, addressing social issues and preserving cultural heritage.
A powerful example of the Divine Nine’s dedication to social impact occurred in 2022, when members of the National Pan-Hellenic Council, Inc., united to advocate for the rights of Black women in response to the historic overturning of Roe v. Wade. The organization launched the “Tell Somebody” campaign, a public service initiative urging people to push lawmakers to reinstate the abortion rights previously protected by Roe.
The Divine Nine members were particularly concerned about the disproportionate impact on Black women, given the ongoing maternal health crisis within the community. This crucial initiative was led by Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., a member of the National Pan-Hellenic Council.
Source: MARK FELIX / Getty
Harris inspired hope with her speech at the Biennial Boule in Houston.
During Harris’ speech at the Boule event, Marica recalled how the 59-year-old Democrat inspired hope with her powerful address on crucial social and political issues. Marica noted that her message matched perfectly with the Divine Nine’s mission for social and political progress.
“Her message aligned with the critical issues that Sigma Gamma Rho sought to address during the Boule such as education, women’s rights, maternal health, mental health, general wellness, voting rights, food disparities, and financial support for underrepresented populations and youth,” she shared. “This event was not a party or ‘unimportant’ as referenced by former President Donald Trump, but an opportunity to highlight our organization’s achievements and reaffirm our commitment to service. The primary purpose and focus of Divine Nine organizations is to remain committed to community awareness and action through educational, economic, and cultural service activities. The reach of the Divine Nine is over 2.5 million with the second largest impact after the Black Church.”
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