Omega Psi Phi

Omega Psi Phi is an international fraternity and the first African-American fraternal organization founded at a historically black college and university. Established at Howard University in 1911, it was incorporated under the laws of the District of Columbia and has grown to encompass hundreds of chapters across the United States and internationally. The fraternity is built upon four cardinal principles: manhood, scholarship, perseverance, and uplift, and is a charter member of the National Pan-Hellenic Council. Known for its distinctive call and deep purple and old gold colors, it has produced a distinguished roster of members who have made significant contributions to civil rights, politics, arts, sports, and science.

History

The organization was founded on November 17, 1911, by three undergraduate students—Edgar Amos Love, Oscar James Cooper, and Frank Coleman—at Howard University, with their faculty adviser, Professor Ernest Everett Just. The founding took place in the office of Just, a prominent biologist, within the Science Hall. It was the first fraternity established at a historically black college and university and was incorporated in Washington, D.C., in 1914. Early expansion included the establishment of its second chapter at Lincoln University in 1914. Throughout the 20th century, it played a significant role in the Civil Rights Movement, with many members, such as Bayard Rustin and Hosea Williams, being key figures. The fraternity's international presence grew with chapters in places like Germany, Japan, South Korea, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Founders and principles

The three founders, Edgar Amos Love, Oscar James Cooper, and Frank Coleman, were guided by Professor Ernest Everett Just, who is recognized as the fraternity's only honorary member. The four Cardinal Principles established at its inception are Manhood, Scholarship, Perseverance, and Uplift. These principles guide the fraternity's mission and activities, emphasizing the development of character, academic excellence, determination in the face of adversity, and a commitment to community service and the advancement of all people. The fraternity's motto, "Friendship is essential to the soul," underscores the lifelong bonds formed among its members.

Programs and initiatives

The fraternity executes its mission through national mandated programs, which include the annual Omega Psi Phi Talent Hunt Program, the Charles R. Drew Blood Drive, and the Social Action Program. It also places a strong emphasis on education through scholarship awards, mentoring, and its partnership with the United Negro College Fund. Health initiatives focus on issues disproportionately affecting the African-American community, such as prostate cancer awareness. The fraternity's foundation, the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. Foundation, supports these charitable and educational efforts. The international Achievement Week is observed each November to highlight the accomplishments of members and the community.

Membership and organization

Membership is granted to men who have completed at least one year of coursework at an accredited college or university, meeting specific academic and character standards. The organizational structure is composed of undergraduate and graduate chapters, known as "Que Chapters," which are grouped into districts across the United States and internationally. The supreme governing body is the Grand Conclave, held biennially, where a Grand Basileus is elected to serve as the international president. The fraternity is divided into twelve districts, each led by a District Representative, and its international headquarters is located in Decatur, Georgia.

Notable members

The fraternity boasts a distinguished membership across numerous fields. In civil rights and politics, notable members include Rev. Jesse Jackson, Vernon Jordan, William H. Hastie, and Ronald H. Brown. In entertainment and arts, members include Bill Cosby, Steve Harvey, Michael Jordan (honorary), and poet Langston Hughes. Sports figures include Shaquille O'Neal, Vince Carter, and Serena Williams's father, Richard Williams. In science and academia, founders like Ernest Everett Just and members such as Charles R. Drew, a pioneer in blood transfusion, and Neil deGrasse Tyson are prominent. Military heroes include General Daniel James Jr., the first African-American four-star general.

Traditions and symbols

The fraternity's colors are Royal Purple and Old Gold. Its symbols include the lamp (representing scholarship), the dove (peace), and the globe (international scope). The official flower is the African violet. The fraternity's distinctive call, often spelled "Whoop" or "Woof," is a well-known identifier. Members are often referred to as "Ques" or "Omega Men." The official publication is The Oracle, published quarterly. Significant rituals and ceremonies, such as the initiation rite, are held in private, and the fraternity observes Founders' Day each November 17. The Omega Psi Phi Memorial Garden at Howard University honors its founders and history. Category:African-American fraternities and sororities Category:Student societies in the United States Category:Organizations established in 1911