One of the first things incoming students see when arriving on campus at an historically black college or university, or HBCU, is trees and benches painted with symbolic colors and the helping hand from a member of the “Divine 9” black fraternities and sororities, who chose to come back to school a week ahead to help out with freshman orientation this year. Six of the nine Black Greek Lettered Organizations (BGLOs) were founded on the campuses of HBCUs, and there’s no better time to explore the history and legacy of these incredible organizations committed to a lifetime of service to the community.
In no particular order, here’s a list of books to read before, during, and after your black college experience especially if those of you are wanting to become a member of these organizations.
I am a Sigma Gamma Rho Legacy by Tiffany A. Flowers
Based on a young lady who decides to become a Sigma Gamma Rho legacy by joining her mother’s sorority when she attends college, this book is sure to help you get an idea of what college was like for your mother, and most importantly, help you make an important decision on which black sorority is best for you.
The Divine Nine: The History of African American Fraternities and Sororities by Lawrence C. Ross
Written by one of the country’s leading experts on black fraternities and sororities, Lawrence C. Ross tells how BGLOs have played a (HUGE) role in shaping the nation since the 20th century.
In Search of Sisterhood: Delta Sigma Theta and the Challenge of the Black Sorority Movement by Paula J. Giddings
A book about sisterhood, women’s rights and “the increasing involvement of black women in the political, social, and economic affairs of America,” according to the book’s summary, this book by Giddings will help you discover the history of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., and much more.
African American Fraternities and Sororities: The Legacy and the Vision by Tamara L. Brown
What do these names—Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Toni Morrison, Arthur Ashe, Carol Moseley Braun, Bill Cosby, Sarah Vaughan, George Washington Carver, Hattie McDaniel, and Bobby Rush—all have in common? They are among the many trailblazing members of black fraternities and sororities, which Brown explores in her book focusing on BGLO’s legacy and vision.
Black Greek 101: The Culture, Customs, and Challenges of Black Fraternities and Sororities by Walter M. Kimbrough
The definitive book on black Greek culture, Kimbrough, who is also the leader of historically black Dillard University, takes a look at the customs, culture, and challenges facing these organizations in his incredible and well-written book Black Greek 101. A must read for anyone serious in learning more about the history and importance of black fraternities and sororities.
Ready for college but not sure what to expect, or even bring? Before you say goodbye to your parents and friends, check out this ultimate guide to surviving your first year in college, and in particular at the country’s 107 historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs). We created the #HBCUFreshmanBible to help build a bridge for students to make a successful transition from high school to black colleges, you can read more here.
