Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated

Overview

Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated is a nonprofit organization and historically black Greek-lettered sorority. It was founded on January 16, 1920, at Howard University in Washington, D.C. by five women known as the "Five Pearls": Arizona Cleaver, Myrtle Tyler, Viola Tyler, Fannie Pettie, and Pearl Neal. The sorority was established with the encouragement of members from Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., and it remains constitutionally bound to this brother fraternity, making them the first and only official Greek-letter sister and brother organizations[1][4].

Historical Context and Founding Principles

The founding of Zeta Phi Beta occurred during a tumultuous period in American history. The Ku Klux Klan was active, the Harlem Renaissance was flourishing, and women had just gained the right to vote with the passage of the 19th Amendment[3][5]. The sorority's founding principles focus on Scholarship, Service, Sisterly Love, and Finer Womanhood. These principles were designed to appeal to college women of all backgrounds who shared high standards and a commitment to academic achievement and community service[1][4].

Notable Achievements

Zeta Phi Beta Sorority has a long history of pioneering achievements:

• First in Africa: In December 1948, Zeta Phi Beta chartered a graduate chapter in Monrovia, Liberia, becoming the first Greek-letter organization to establish a chapter in Africa[1][2].
• Auxiliary Groups: Zeta was the first to form both adult and youth auxiliary groups, including Amicae, Archonettes, Amicettes, and Pearlettes[2][4].
• International Expansion: Zeta chartered chapters in Germany and other countries, expanding its international reach early on[4]. More recently, it chartered chapters in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (2014), and the British Virgin Islands (2019)[2].
• National Conventions: In 1937, Zeta hosted the first national convention of a Black Greek-lettered organization south of the Mason-Dixon line in Houston, Texas[2].

Programs and Mission

The sorority is dedicated to fostering ideals of service, charity, scholarship, civic and cultural endeavors, sisterhood, and Finer Womanhood. Its programs include community outreach, educational endowments, scholarships, support for charities, and advocacy for social and civic change[4]. Members and their auxiliary groups contribute significantly to voluntary service, reflecting the organization's commitment to community development and empowerment[1].

Incorporation

Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated is a nonprofit organization incorporated in Washington, D.C. and the state of Illinois. The organization relies on member dues and donations to support its activities and initiatives[1][4].

Recent Activities

In recent years, Zeta Phi Beta has continued to break ground. Notably, in 2020, the sorority's Centennial Step-Team participated in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, marking the first appearance by a Black Greek-lettered organization in this event[2]. Additionally, in 2022, Zeta launched its own branded shoe line with New Balance, becoming the first D9 organization to do so[2].