Last week, a sea of red took over Philadelphia as thousands of members of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. gathered for their 54th Eastern Regional Conference. The event drew over 5,000 women in person and thousands more virtually, blending social justice with socializing. But the sorority’s presence was felt beyond the conference rooms—they left a lasting impact on the community by supporting several local recreation centers.
Rosie Allen-Herring, Delta Sigma Theta’s regional director and president of United Way of the National Capital Area, explained that the sorority’s mission is to improve the quality of life for women and children in the cities they visit. This dedication was on full display throughout the conference, including their emphasis on the importance of voting.
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During a public meeting initially focused on economic impact, the conversation quickly shifted to the sorority’s VOTE Initiative—Visualize, Organize, Trailblaze, and Empower. The urgency of increasing voter turnout for the upcoming November elections was front and center, with the sorors making it clear where their priorities lie, despite their nonpartisan stance.
This initiative is part of a broader effort by the Divine 9, the collective name for the nation’s nine historically Black Greek organizations, to mobilize voters. Vice President Kamala Harris, a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, has been tapping into this powerful network in her campaign efforts, recognizing the Divine 9’s influence and commitment to civic engagement.
As the election approaches, the Deltas are carrying on their legacy of activism. Founded in 1913, Delta Sigma Theta was born out of a desire to fight for women’s suffrage and against lynching. The sorority’s founders broke away from Alpha Kappa Alpha to focus on national issues, and their dedication to social action remains strong today.
The importance of the upcoming election cannot be overstated. Rev. Gwendolyn E. Boyd, former National President of Delta Sigma Theta, captured the gravity of the moment, urging attendees to make their voices heard at the polls. “I can’t tell you who to vote for,” Boyd said, “but the Bible says: I have set before you life and death and God said choose life.”
With the stakes higher than ever, the Deltas are answering the call to action, determined to continue their century-long tradition of making a difference.
