Black History Month begins with NPHC activities
Black Greek community determined to break stereotype of its organization

By LaNasha Houze
Staff Reporter

National Pan-Hellenic Council will hold its first week of events Feb. 5-10 in celebration of African-American history and in support of TCU’s mission to encourage students to embrace diverse cultural and racial backgrounds.

Artist Thornton, adviser for NPHC and a member of Kappa Alpha Psi, said the week’s events will expose the TCU community to another aspect of the black Greek community.

“The black Greek community is involved in more than just step shows,” Thornton said. “We also do community service and mentoring programs. We can and do work together as an organization. This week disproves the negative stereotypes that the public has about the black Greek community.”

Although the organizations are traditionally African-American, Thornton said the organizations and the week’s events are open to everyone.

“Members of the NPHC encompass a lot of racial backgrounds,” Thornton said. “Members are Asian, Hispanic, Caucasian and Native American. A university is a place to learn and gain an appreciation to different ideas and cultures. This week is a part of that global experience.”

Joshua Igeleke, president of Alpha Phi Alpha, said the founders implemented the organization in order to establish an equal voice for minorities and to create a networking opportunity for African-American students.

“At first, meetings were held secretly,” Igeleke said. “Instead of announcing Greek meetings, students would announce a study group session. The students needed these groups in order to come together and help each other through the adversities of that time.”

Kristi Veasey, treasurer for Zeta Phi Beta, said the history of NPHC coincides with the purpose of Black History Month.

“The purpose of Black History Month is to recognize how far African Americans have come and to reflect on our ancestors who fought for our equal rights,” Veasey said. “The NPHC came into existence for those African-Americans who were discriminated against on college campuses and in business environments. This week is a reflection upon those individuals and the dream they had for us today.”

The current organizations on TCU’s campus within the NPHC include Alpha Kappa Alpha, Alpha Phi Alpha, Delta Sigma Theta, Kappa Alpha Psi and Zeta Phi Beta.

Black History Events
Monday: NPHC social at 7 p.m. in the Student Center Lounge.
Tuesday: An open forum dis cussion from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. in The Main.
Wednesday: Relationships forum in the Student Center, rooms 205-206.
Thursday: Open Mic Night at 7 p.m. in the Student Center Lounge.
Friday: Skate night at 7 p.m. at the Crowley Skating Rink.
Saturday: Free semi-formal dinner from 8 p.m. to midnight in the Student Center Ballroom.

LaNasha Houze
l.d.houze@student.tcu.edu