Before learning about the Divine 9, my perception of college fraternities and sororities was primarily shaped by their portrayal in popular culture, where they often appeared as social organizations focused on partying, exclusivity, and sometimes negative behaviors like hazing. While I recognized that these organizations often facilitated networking and friendship among students, I had little understanding of their deeper values and contributions to communities. My interest in joining one was minimal, as I believed they often reflected elitism rather than promoting inclusivity or meaningful change on campus.
Learning about the Divine 9—the nine historically Black Greek-letter organizations—provided a much richer perspective on the role fraternities and sororities can play in fostering community, leadership, and social justice. These organizations emerged during a time when Black Americans faced significant discrimination in educational institutions and broader society. The Divine 9 not only created safe spaces for Black students but also actively engaged in initiatives to expand educational opportunities, advocate for civil rights, and support each other academically and socially. This framework of empowerment and activism redefined my view of Greek life; rather than being mere social clubs, the Divine 9 represent resilience, a commitment to service, and an enduring legacy of support for the pursuit of higher education among Black Americans.