[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 24 (Wednesday, March 1, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E250]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      HONORING BLACK HISTORY MONTH

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                         HON. CHARLES B. RANGEL

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, February 28, 2006

  Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and pay tribute to the 
many Black Fraternal, Social and Civic Institutions which have had such 
a tremendous impact and overall positive effect on African American 
life and history.
  Established in an age when racial segregation and disenfranchisement 
plagued African Americans, the rise of each of the black fraternities 
and sororities bore witness to the fact that despite hardships, African 
Americans refused to conform to a status of inferiority.
  These organizations, some which have been in existence since the 
early 1900s, have cut across racial, national, physical and social 
barriers, in order to make a difference educationally, socially, 
economically, and politically. They have proven to be an effective 
channel for social change and a recognized force in the struggle for 
civil and human rights.
  Serving more than just their immediate members, these black 
fraternities and sororities known as the ``Divine Nine'' joined with 
other civic associations such as the Urban League, the National 
Association of Colored Women's Clubs, the Prince Hall Masons, the 
Eastern Stars, and so many others to provide service to the entire 
black community. It wasn't just the ``church'' that addressed the needs 
and answered the call of the black community, but it was these 
fraternal organizations that stepped up and took on that role as well.
  Just who are the ``Divine Nine''? They are Alpha Kappa Alpha 
Sorority, Inc. Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Delta Sigma Theta 
Sorority, Inc., Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., Iota Phi Theta 
Fraternity, Inc., Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., Sigma Gamma Rho 
Sorority, Inc. Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. and Omega Psi Phi 
Fraternity, Inc.
  Nine strong, they promote interaction through forums, meetings and 
other mediums in order to exchange information and engage in 
cooperative programming and initiatives through various activities.
  Other black social organizations also took the helm in addressing the 
concerns of the black community and like the fraternal organizations, 
represent the aspirations of many African Americans. They are The 
Links, Jack and Jill, 100 Black Men, and Rainbow/PUSH Coalition.
  We look to and thank all of these organizations for striving to 
improve the quality of life within our communities, and enhance 
educational and economic opportunities for all African Americans. Their 
leadership and steadfast commitment to the betterment of our young 
people and our communities, has been and continues to be a tremendous 
success and of great inspiration.
  May all of these fine and outstanding organizations continue to carry 
on their good work knowing that they have the admiration and support of 
the U.S. Congress.

                          ____________________