[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 7 (Tuesday, February 5, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E77]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       HONORING DELTA SIGMA THETA

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. BOB BARR

                               of georgia

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, February 5, 2002

  Mr. BARR of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, In 1916, twenty-two women came 
together at Howard University in Washington, D.C. to establish an 
organization of motivated African-American women. These women believed 
not only in the ideals of high morality, but also the maintenance of 
scholastic achievement and philanthropy among women. As a result of 
this meeting, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority was established.
  To date, Delta Sigma Theta has over 200,000 members worldwide, with 
branches of sisterhood reaching as far as West Germany and Korea. The 
women of Delta Sigma Theta have continued their founders' initial 
pledge to serve others, carrying out the tradition of acting as a 
public service organization rather than a social club. Realizing the 
issues reach across the globe, the members of Delta Sigma Theta have 
outlined five points to which they hold themselves and each other 
accountable. These goals include educational development, economic 
development, international awareness and involvement, physical and 
mental health, and--particularly poignant of all of us--political 
awareness and involvement.
  I am pleased to say some years ago, Atlanta area alumnae of Delta 
Sigma Theta realized the need for a solid alumnae presence, so on 
February 22, 1986 the Marietta-Roswell Alumnae Chapter set its charter. 
It has grown to over 300 members. At the core of this alumnae group is 
support for their collegiate sisters, bringing to light the scholarship 
program. Funds for the prize monies are raised through its annual 
dinner dance, ``An Affair of the Heart,'' and the debutante cotillion 
program.
  My fellow members of the House, I am happy to report the Marietta-
Roswell alumnae chapter of Delta Sigma Theta will be giving out more 
than $25,000 in collegiate scholarships awards on February 16, 2002, 
saluting promising African American women leaders of tomorrow. I ask 
you to join me in applauding the past and present efforts and 
activities of Delta Sigma Theta. Their outstanding leadership and true 
community spirit of both alumnae and active members are to be commended 
and exemplified.

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