Pelosi Commemorates Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority's 100th Anniversary

January 15, 2008

Washington, D.C. - Speaker Pelosi issued the following statement today in commemoration of Alpha Kappa Alpha (AKA) Sorority's 100th anniversary as the first Greek-letter organization founded by African American college women on January 15, 1908. It is a fitting occasion as today is also the 79th birthday of venerated civil rights Leader, the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr:

'As we mark Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority's historic centennial celebration, we should also take a moment to reflect on the many contributions Black Greek letter organizations have made to the African-American community's economic, cultural, spiritual, and political fabric, and to our nation as a whole.

'The founders of this remarkable organization, college-educated women of color just one generation removed from slavery, recognized their responsibility to their communities and to their country. Today, this organization has grown from its initial chapter at Howard University here in Washington to more than 200,000 members in the United States, the Caribbean, Europe, Asia, Africa, and Canada. AKA members continue to help African Americans find strength and pride, as well as encourage a strong sense of community. The goals of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority cut across racial, international, social, political, and educational barriers: 'Service to all mankind.'

AKA members are striving to build a better America and a better world.'Over the years, I have served in Congress with several members of this great organization, including Congresswomen Sheila Jackson Lee, Eddie Bernice Johnson, Diane Watson, and the late Juanita Millender-McDonald. Some of their esteemed honorary members include Eleanor Roosevelt, Coretta Scott-King, and Rosa Parks. On behalf of every Member of Congress, I salute the Members of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority for their past and continued contributions to our nation.'