PDF Summary:In Search of Sisterhood, by Paula Giddings

In her groundbreaking book In Search of Sisterhood, Paula Giddings provides an in-depth look into Delta Sigma Theta, a pioneering sorority founded in 1913 by 22 African American women at Howard University. The book chronicles the sorority's commitment to academic excellence, civic engagement, and the advancement of civil rights.

From its early days of nurturing achievement to its active participation in the civil rights movement, Delta Sigma Theta has consistently balanced its dedication to public service with the celebration of Black sisterhood. Giddings traces the sorority's evolution—from initiatives like the Jobs Analysis Project and Project Headstart to global outreach across Africa and the Caribbean—while exploring the administrative challenges posed by its rapid growth.

(continued)...

• Start a virtual book club focused on social justice topics to educate and mobilize your community. Choose books that tackle issues you care about and organize monthly discussions via video conferencing tools. This can be a space for learning, sharing personal experiences, and brainstorming ways to support related causes. For example, if you're interested in criminal justice reform, you could read and discuss books that explore the prison system, policing, and rehabilitation.
• You can amplify social justice initiatives by creating and sharing infographics on social media that highlight key issues and actionable steps. By using free graphic design tools like Canva, you can design compelling visuals that summarize important information and encourage your network to take action, such as contacting representatives or supporting specific legislation.
• Engage in self-education to better understand the historical and current economic impact of systemic racism. This doesn't require formal education but can be as simple as reading articles, watching documentaries, or listening to podcasts that focus on the topic. With this knowledge, you'll be better equipped to recognize and challenge systemic issues in your own community.
• Develop a "Rapid Response Team" within your group dedicated to immediate actions while another team focuses on long-term community service projects. This allows for specialization and ensures that both needs are met without compromising one for the other. For instance, the rapid response team could quickly organize a local clean-up after a storm, while the long-term team plans a recurring mentorship program for local students.
• Encourage local libraries or bookstores to feature literature about Black fraternal organizations. Suggest a monthly display or a dedicated section that focuses on the contributions of these groups. You could volunteer to help curate a list of relevant books and resources, ensuring that the material is accessible and informative for the community.

The organization provided financial aid and moral backing to participants in the civil rights movement, including the "Little Rock Nine" and those active in the Freedom Summer project.

The sorority showcased its support for pivotal initiatives in the civil rights movement, initiatives that challenged Delta's commitment to progress. The writer emphasizes the fraternity's support for Daisy Bates and the group referred to as the "Little Rock Nine." In 1957, Bates was instrumental in the integration of Central High School in Little Rock, Arkansas by leading the local NAACP, thereby bringing the civil rights battle into the national spotlight despite considerable resistance. The author details the way Delta, under the guidance of Harrison and Noble, tackled the crisis through the adoption of pragmatic and moral approaches. Giddings emphasizes the significance of the sisterhood's Yuletide festivities, which provided gifts and monetary assistance to students and their families, in addition to supporting the continuation of Bates's publication, the State Press, an essential tool for the NAACP's initiatives. Giddings emphasizes how Delta Sigma Theta Sorority elevated awareness across the nation regarding the crisis, as evidenced by the fact that eighty-three of its chapters endorsed the State Press through the purchase of advertisements. The writer underscores the fraternity's support for Bates and the students, highlighting that it came at a time when efforts to dismantle segregation in the Deep South frequently provoked violent retaliation and faced opposition from many in the Black community as well as from different civil rights organizations. Delta’s action, according to Giddings, was a bold, even unprecedented act of courage.

Giddings narrates the support the sorority provided to SNCC during its initiative in Mississippi known as Freedom Summer in 1964. Woods, who was serving as president at the time, embarked on a personal visit to the state to evaluate how the Delta organization might become involved during a tumultuous era marked by the vanishing of three civil rights workers and extensive violence and threats targeting African Americans. The author describes an incident in which Woods narrowly escaped harm while a young woman, who was driving her at dangerously high speeds, successfully evaded a police car that was chasing them in the state of Mississippi. Delta amplified its engagement by offering monetary assistance for bail to help students arrested during protests and by distributing scholarships and funds to SNCC employees in need of support.

Context

• The "Little Rock Nine" were a group of African American students who, in 1957, were the first to integrate Central High School in Little Rock, Arkansas, following the Supreme Court's decision in Brown v. Board of Education, which declared segregation in public schools unconstitutional. Their enrollment was met with intense opposition, requiring federal intervention by President Eisenhower, who sent the 101st Airborne Division to escort and protect the students.
• The events in Little Rock were pivotal in highlighting the need for stronger civil rights legislation, eventually contributing to the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which aimed to end segregation in public places and banned employment discrimination.
• During this period, efforts to desegregate schools and public spaces in the South were often met with violent backlash from segregationists. This included physical assaults, threats, and intimidation tactics aimed at both activists and the Black community at large.
• The State Press was an influential African American newspaper in Arkansas, co-published by Daisy Bates and her husband, L.C. Bates. It played a critical role in advocating for civil rights and disseminating information about the movement, making it a vital resource for the NAACP and the broader civil rights struggle.
• Purchasing advertisements in a publication like the State Press was a strategic way to provide financial support and increase the paper's visibility and influence, helping to sustain its operations and amplify its message.
• Financial assistance to SNCC employees was vital as many worked with little to no pay, relying on donations to sustain their efforts in organizing and activism.
• Civil rights workers in Mississippi during this period faced extreme risks, including harassment, arrest, and violence. The disappearance and murder of three activists—James Chaney, Andrew Goodman, and Michael Schwerner—highlighted the lethal dangers involved.
• Freedom Summer was a 1964 voter registration drive aimed at increasing the number of registered Black voters in Mississippi. It was organized by civil rights groups like the Congress of Racial Equality (CORE) and the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC). The initiative faced severe opposition, including violence and intimidation from local authorities and the Ku Klux Klan.

Delta Sigma Theta combined customary service endeavors with a proactive approach to activism, initiating programs that evaluated job markets and identified potential opportunities.

Paula Giddings notes that even with the increased emphasis on activism during the 1930s and 1940s, traditional endeavors were not forsaken. The group sought to combine its enduring dedication to serving the community with a more forward-thinking approach. The author highlights the Delta's project, launched in 1937 and formally established in 1945, aimed at providing books and library services primarily to the rural Southern regions of the United States with significant African American communities. Under the guidance of President Dorothy Height and with Anne Duncan overseeing the project, the initiative was carefully planned and carried out. The writer also highlights the initiative's commitment to meeting the educational needs of African American youth through the distribution of collections of books among schools in various regions. Giddings recognizes the initiative's contribution to improving young people's reading skills and its impact as a model that inspired different organizations and government entities during those difficult times.

Additionally, Giddings explores the project initiated by Height during the 1941 convention in Detroit, which gained wider acceptance in 1947 and is recognized as the Jobs Analysis and Opportunities Project. The initiative focused on examining job opportunities, advancement possibilities, and the chances for Black women to obtain positions in the swiftly growing defense industry during the wartime period. The Baltimore chapter meticulously examined the issues, created a forum for public dialogue, and obtained pledges from community employers. The author emphasizes that the program's original dedication to meeting the unique needs of African American women signified a significant change in focus, even though it later broadened to encompass vocational training and counseling for various ethnic groups.

Context

• During World War II, the defense industry expanded rapidly, creating new job opportunities. However, racial and gender barriers often limited access for African American women, necessitating targeted advocacy and training programs.
• Initiatives like the Jobs Analysis and Opportunities Project were part of a broader movement to secure economic justice for African Americans, laying groundwork for later civil rights advancements in employment equality.
• The project was initiated during a period when the United States was experiencing significant social and economic changes, including the Great Depression and the lead-up to World War II. These events influenced the need for community support and educational resources, particularly in underserved areas.
• Access to books also played a role in preserving African American culture and history, offering materials that reflected their experiences and contributions to society.
• Anne Duncan played a crucial role in the execution of the library services project. Her oversight ensured that the initiative was effectively implemented, addressing the educational disparities faced by African American communities in the rural South.
• By distributing books, the initiative not only aimed to educate but also to empower communities, fostering a sense of self-reliance and cultural pride.
• Improved reading skills were essential for African American youth as literacy was a key factor in gaining access to better educational and employment opportunities. Literacy also empowered individuals to engage more fully in civic life and advocate for civil rights.
• The acceptance of such initiatives in 1947 reflects a growing recognition of the importance of community-based solutions to address systemic issues, highlighting the role of local organizations in effecting change.
• The defense industry was crucial during wartime, involving the production of military equipment and supplies. Employment in this sector was not only economically beneficial but also a matter of national importance.
• These forums were likely community meetings or workshops designed to raise awareness about employment discrimination and to strategize on how to overcome barriers. They provided a platform for sharing experiences and solutions.
• These programs were essential in providing skills and guidance to individuals who were entering or re-entering the workforce, particularly in industries that were previously inaccessible to them.

During the 1960s, a period marked by progress in the civil rights movement, the sorority deepened its dedication to serving the community by focusing on promoting women's rights, expanding educational opportunities, and combating poverty.

The organization strengthened its commitment to civic involvement over social gatherings, sparking conversations regarding its evolving character.

During the 1960s, when the civil rights movement was gathering strength, Giddings observes that Delta Sigma Theta underwent a considerable shift in its community efforts and undertook a thorough review of its purpose and goals. In its initial phase, the sorority initiated programs such as creating library services, educational endeavors, and evaluating career opportunities, all rooted in the belief that nurturing individual achievement would lead to broader social change. The student movement sparked by the Greensboro sit-ins and the increasing focus on direct action compelled the organization to transition from fostering individual empowerment to devising strategies for altering societal structures. Under Harrison's guidance, the group had already adopted this perspective by 1958, which was highlighted during a panel discussion that culminated in a unanimous agreement on the significance of engaging in "social action" as opposed to simply offering "social service."

Giddings describes how the increasing commitment to community service led to new conversations about the sorority's identity as an organization. In 1965, the suggestion to enhance the sorority's core objectives through the inclusion of 'public service programming' initiated a discussion. For numerous individuals, this signified a waning of the spirit of fellowship and collective backing within the women's community. With the influx of younger members shaped by the student movement and the rising tide of Black Power, Delta was compelled to confront the principles of Black nationalism and separatism. The organization faced the difficult task of balancing the demands of the movement with the needs of its members, a challenge further complicated by the heartbreaking assassinations of Medgar Evers and Martin Luther King, Jr., an issue that, according to Giddings, was not unique to Black organizations during that era.

Context

• Martin Luther King Jr., a leader of the civil rights movement, was assassinated in 1968. His death marked a significant turning point, leading to widespread riots and a sense of urgency in addressing racial injustice. It also intensified debates within civil rights organizations about the best strategies to achieve equality, including the consideration of more radical approaches.

Other Perspectives

• Prioritizing civic involvement may lead to the misconception that social gatherings are less valuable, even though they can also serve important functions such as networking, member support, and community building.
• Initiating programs that target individual achievement might inadvertently overlook the collective action required to tackle issues that are structural and require policy change.
• The move to societal change might have required resources and expertise beyond the sorority's scope, potentially overextending its capabilities.
• "Social service" can be a critical component of community support that sustains individuals while broader "social action" efforts are underway, suggesting that both approaches are not mutually exclusive but rather complementary.
• The sorority's identity may have always included a strong element of community service, making the increased commitment a reaffirmation rather than a catalyst for identity discussions.
• There is a risk that the emphasis on 'public service programming' could create a one-size-fits-all approach to community service, which may not be as effective in addressing the diverse needs of different communities.
• The idea that the influx of younger members was the sole or primary driver for confronting these principles overlooks the possibility that existing members could also have been influenced by the broader social movements of the time, leading to a collective shift within the organization.
• The organization might have had a clear, overarching mission that easily encompassed both the demands of the movement and the needs of its members, making the balancing act less of a challenge and more of a natural evolution.

The sorority known as Delta Sigma Theta worked in partnership with government agencies and under the Johnson administration to initiate programs that targeted the elimination of poverty and the promotion of development within communities.

Giddings highlights how the Johnson administration's War on Poverty provided new opportunities for Delta Sigma Theta to leverage its resources and lobbying power to develop programs that addressed the needs of Black communities, especially in the Deep South. The sorority, working jointly with the Office of Economic Opportunity, was instrumental in launching Project Headstart. Woods led the charge in consolidating the chapters to secure government backing for programs that offered preschool education to underprivileged children, showcasing the organization's acknowledgment of how crucial this early engagement is in combating illiteracy and poverty. The sorority's reputation as a skilled and powerful entity dedicated to serving the community was solidified through the success of Headstart, which established a foundation for government support of further initiatives spearheaded by the Delta.

Additionally, Giddings highlights the pivotal part played by Delta in championing and laying the groundwork for important legislative measures, such as the Demonstration Cities Bill aimed at revitalizing urban areas in decline. The author emphasizes the significance of her dialogues with key individuals, such as the President, to effectively communicate the specific needs of African American communities to the authorities. Delta often collaborated with fellow organizations in the African American community, such as the National Urban League during Vivian Marsh's leadership, to develop programs like career conferences and mentoring sessions. Giddings emphasizes that in this era, Delta was distinguished by its skill in partnering with government entities and private groups to address significant societal issues.

Context

• Established in 1910, this civil rights organization advocates on behalf of African Americans and against racial discrimination in the United States, focusing on economic empowerment and social justice.
• Launched in 1965, this program was designed to help break the cycle of poverty by providing preschool children from low-income families with a comprehensive program to meet their emotional, social, health, nutritional, and psychological needs. It was one of the first programs to emphasize the importance of early childhood education.
• The success of Project Head Start helped pave the way for future educational and social programs, reinforcing the role of civic organizations in shaping public policy and community development.
• Officially known as the Model Cities Program, this was part of President Lyndon B. Johnson's Great Society and War on Poverty initiatives. It aimed to improve urban infrastructure, housing, and services in targeted cities through comprehensive planning and community involvement.
• Direct communication with high-level officials, including the President, was essential for effectively conveying the specific challenges faced by African American communities, such as economic disparities, educational inequities, and lack of access to resources.
• These conferences were designed to provide African Americans with access to professional development resources, networking opportunities, and exposure to various career paths, which were often limited due to systemic racism and segregation.
• Delta Sigma Theta's ability to partner effectively was partly due to its strategic lobbying efforts, which involved engaging with policymakers and government officials to advocate for the needs of African American communities. This required a deep understanding of political processes and effective communication skills.

The sorority broadened its international reach by establishing new chapters and launching initiatives across several countries in Africa and the Caribbean.

Giddings explores the broadening focus of the sorority as it became more aware of and responsive to the issues confronting Black populations in Africa, the Caribbean, and South America. The author highlights that Delta Sigma Theta's involvement in international affairs has deep historical roots, evidenced by their resistance to U.S. intervention in Haiti during the 1930s and their role in founding the United Nations. The burgeoning independence movements across Africa in the 1950s, along with a heightened awareness of worldwide interdependence amid the Cold War era, underscored the urgency for prompt action. Guided by Jeanne Noble, the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority expanded its influence, signifying its growth with the creation of a new chapter in Liberia coinciding with President William Tubman's 1960 inauguration, and by forging connections with influential African leaders such as Kwame Nkrumah from Ghana and Tom Mboya from Kenya.

Giddings provides an in-depth account of the steps Delta took to set up a maternity ward at the Njorge Mungai Hospital in Kenya. This initiative held symbolic importance because it aimed to expand health care options for African women, highlighting the worldwide struggles encountered by women with African ancestry. Additionally, she emphasizes the initiative's success in raising awareness about the circumstances in Kenya, showing the organization's steady approach of using emotional appeal to spur its members into action. Guided by Hortense Canady from 1985, the initiative referred to as the Black Diaspora paid homage to its origins by dedicating itself to educational endeavors, international travel, and fostering an enriched comprehension of Africa's cultural legacy, as noted by Giddings.

Context

• Founded in 1913 at Howard University, it is a historically Black sorority focused on public service and social change, particularly in African American communities.
• The U.S. military occupation of Haiti began in 1915 and lasted until 1934. It was driven by strategic interests and concerns over European influence in the Caribbean. The occupation faced significant resistance from Haitians and was criticized for its impact on Haitian sovereignty and governance.
• During the 1950s, international organizations, including the United Nations, played a crucial role in supporting decolonization efforts and promoting peace. Delta Sigma Theta's involvement in such initiatives highlighted the importance of non-governmental organizations in influencing global policies and supporting newly independent states.
• Both were influential leaders in Africa's post-colonial movement. Nkrumah was the first Prime Minister and President of Ghana, while Mboya was a key figure in Kenya's independence movement. Their connection with Delta Sigma Theta highlights the sorority's engagement with pivotal figures in African history.
• This hospital was part of broader efforts to improve medical facilities in Kenya, reflecting a partnership between local governments and international organizations.
• The struggles faced by women with African ancestry are deeply rooted in the legacy of colonialism, which disrupted traditional societies, imposed foreign governance, and often marginalized women economically and socially.
• By using emotional appeal, organizations can strengthen community bonds among members. Shared emotional experiences can foster a sense of solidarity and collective identity, which is crucial for sustaining long-term engagement.
• The initiative likely included programs such as scholarships, educational exchanges, and workshops aimed at increasing knowledge about African history, culture, and contemporary issues.

The development and refinement of the organizational framework and administrative procedures within Delta Sigma Theta.

Delta Sigma Theta's leadership grappled with challenges of maintaining high academic standards while expanding membership and diversifying programs.

Conversations often centered on finding equilibrium between community engagement and service projects, as well as establishing academic standards and differentiating the roles of members at the graduate and undergraduate levels.

Giddings depicts the Delta's continuous commitment to maintaining high academic standards, while also recognizing the importance of evolving over time. In the 1930s, she explains, the tension surfaced once again, with discussions centering on the inclusion of educational institutions that were classified with a "B" rating by the Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools in the Southern States. The group encountered difficulties in expanding its base to encompass a wider array of African American women from different educational backgrounds, especially those from institutions in the southern United States, while still maintaining its reputation for prioritizing scholarly achievement. Giddings highlights the complex discussions that culminated in a consensus, particularly noting the decision during the 1933 national convention to incorporate the "B" schools, provided they advance to "A" status within seven years, a decision that shaped the evolution and tactical course of Delta.

Toward the close of the 1950s, the author observes an increase in Black students enrolling in predominantly white institutions, which frequently had more relaxed requirements for joining Greek-letter organizations. Concerns were voiced about the rationale behind upholding stringent criteria, despite the potential outcome of diminishing membership figures. Giddings emphasizes Dorothy Height’s reluctance to change the academic requirements, noting her personal commitment to high scholastic achievement for Black women. However, the author details the challenges faced due to a dwindling number of participants at a time when other organizations for Black individuals, such as AKA, were admitting students with more relaxed academic criteria. Giddings emphasizes the ongoing challenges by recounting the 1958 episode where Jeanne Noble, then president, was pressured by officials from the University of Pittsburgh to accept candidates into Delta who did not meet the required academic criteria.

Other Perspectives

• The decision to incorporate "B" schools with the stipulation of advancing to "A" status within seven years could be seen as a temporary concession rather than a true evolution, as it still enforces a hierarchy of educational institutions.
• The policy of including institutions based on ratings might overlook the historical and systemic challenges faced by certain schools, particularly in the southern United States.
• Scholarly achievement and membership expansion are not necessarily mutually exclusive; with proper outreach and support, it's possible to attract a diverse membership that also meets high academic standards.
• This policy could inadvertently perpetuate educational inequalities by favoring institutions that are already closer to "A" status and have the means to improve, while leaving behind those that may lack the resources or support to make such advancements.
• The presence of Black students at predominantly white institutions with relaxed Greek-letter organization requirements does not inherently address or resolve the systemic barriers that may have previously limited Black student enrollment.
• The organization could explore alternative ways to maintain high standards while also being more inclusive, such as providing mentorship programs to help prospective members reach the required criteria.
• There could be a risk that by focusing primarily on academic achievement, other important aspects of personal and professional development, such as leadership skills, emotional intelligence, and social networking, might receive less attention.
• A decline in numbers does not necessarily equate to a decline in the quality or impact of the organization's work; a smaller, more committed group could potentially achieve more than a larger, less dedicated one.
• The decision to not lower academic standards could be seen as a commitment to fostering a culture of excellence and achievement among its members, which can have long-term benefits for the individuals and the communities they serve.

The group experienced a significant change to improve its efficiency and to ensure a wider sharing of decision-making responsibilities, which resulted in the creation of numerous committees and task forces.

Giddings outlines how Delta Sigma Theta consistently refined its organizational framework to keep pace with its rapid expansion and evolving program goals. Under the guidance of Sadie Alexander in the 1920s, a structure was created that allocated the responsibilities of the central office by setting up an office for a National Representative, which had the responsibility of evaluating potential members and creating a Standards Board to oversee the accreditation of institutions. During Dorothy Beckley's tenure, the sorority created a new committee focused on financial oversight in response to Treasurer Annie Dingley's difficulties with fiscal responsibilities, implemented an innovative method for identifying chapters, and began issuing The Delta Sigma Theta Bulletin to keep members informed of the latest happenings.

Under Dorothy Height's guidance in 1952, the Executive Board experienced significant changes that enhanced the way decisions were made and the allocation of duties among the national officers, regional chapters, and committees. At the 1951 Vassar conference, she presented these modifications to the participants, focusing on restructuring various boards and committees to improve financial supervision. The group was in a strong position to launch its countrywide programs, including the Employment Analysis project, appoint a principal administrator, and establish a permanent base for its national activities. The organization's strategic planning regularly factored in these aspects, yet to realize this goal, it required not just a leader with the skill set comparable to that of Height but also a sophisticated and systematic approach to raising funds.

Other Perspectives

• While creating numerous committees and task forces can improve efficiency and share decision-making, it can also lead to bureaucracy and slow down the decision-making process if not managed properly.
• The creation of a Standards Board to oversee accreditation could have inadvertently imposed a one-size-fits-all approach to evaluating institutions, which may not account for the unique strengths or challenges of certain chapters.
• The introduction of these measures by Dorothy Beckley suggests a centralized approach to problem-solving; however, it could be critiqued that this might not have allowed for sufficient input from the broader membership or grassroots-level feedback.
• While Dorothy Height's leadership in restructuring the Executive Board was pivotal, it could be argued that the effectiveness of decision-making and duties allocation also depended on the collaboration and input of other board members and committees.
• The reorganization of boards and committees could have unintended consequences, such as power struggles or confusion over roles, which might detract from the goal of improved financial oversight.
• The focus on national expansion and the establishment of a permanent base might have shifted attention away from adapting to local community needs, which can be crucial for the relevance and impact of the organization's work.
• The effectiveness of fundraising approaches is not solely dependent on their sophistication; sometimes, simple, direct methods can be more effective and resonate better with the donor base.

Shifts in Delta Sigma Theta's leadership often heralded new directions and shifts in the group's focus and internal relationships.

Sadie T.M. Alexander, Dorothy Height, and Lillian Benbow each brought their distinct viewpoints and styles of leadership, thereby offering unique and substantial contributions to the sisterhood.

Giddings explores how each national president of Delta Sigma Theta adapted their leadership style to resonate with the evolving values and cultural transformations encountered within the sorority. Sadie Alexander's distinguished accomplishments in academia and the professional world significantly influenced the collective, as observed by Giddings. Her resolve to form Delta chapters at prestigious institutions and her introduction of initiatives such as a week in May dedicated to scholarship and educational programs solidified Delta's reputation as the leading sorority among African Americans from the very beginning.

The book explores how, from 1947 to 1956, Dorothy Height was pivotal in guiding the sorority through significant growth in both structure and programs, ensuring its significance in contemporary society. Giddings emphasizes Height's skill in drawing in skilled individuals such as Patricia Harris to support the Jobs Project and to serve on the YWCA's National Board, while also devising broad initiatives that local affiliates could adopt within their own communities. The author highlights Height's crucial role in fortifying Delta Sigma Theta, notably through her key participation in selecting Patricia Harris as the sorority's first executive director and spearheading the successful campaign to raise funds for the organization's central office.

Giddings examines the powerful, sometimes controversial leadership style demonstrated by Lillian Benbow. She notes how Benbow’s embracing of the Afro hairstyle as symbol of Black pride created tensions within a sorority, whose members and activities were often associated with a more conservative middle-class ethos. The writer also addresses the divisions that emerged within the sorority as certain individuals attempted to postpone the 1975 national convention, an action aimed at prolonging Benbow's tenure to oversee the intricate creation of the film, Countdown at Kusini.

Practical Tips

• Enhance your community's access to knowledge by creating a free resource exchange platform. Use social media or community bulletin boards to encourage people in your area to share books, educational materials, and expertise. This can be as simple as a Facebook group where members post resources they're willing to lend or expertise they can offer in a specific field.
• Create a feedback loop for continuous improvement in your organization's programs. Implement a simple system where participants and stakeholders can provide their input after each event or program. Use this feedback to make incremental changes, ensuring that your organization remains responsive to the needs of its members and community, thereby promoting sustained growth.
• Develop a mentorship program within your initiative that pairs skilled professionals with those looking to learn. This not only brings in expertise but also fosters an environment of growth and development. For example, a seasoned marketer could mentor a team member on effective communication strategies, thereby strengthening the project's outreach efforts.
• Create a peer advisory group with friends or colleagues to practice and refine your decision-making skills. Regularly meet to discuss and analyze each other's career decisions, providing feedback and support. This simulates the process of selecting key individuals for roles, as you learn to consider various perspectives and make informed choices.
• Start a journal to document instances where you feel your personal expression has impacted your professional interactions. Note the context, the reactions of others, and your feelings about the situation. Over time, review your entries to identify patterns and consider if there are ways to address misunderstandings or educate others about your choices.
• You can strengthen group cohesion by initiating a 'common ground' document for your team or organization. Start by creating a shared digital document where all members can contribute their values, goals, and visions for the group. This can be a living document that evolves with the organization, helping to bridge divisions by focusing on shared objectives and fostering a sense of unity.

Disagreements sometimes emerged regarding how leadership roles were allocated, changes to the organization's core regulations, and the pace of programmatic and ideological changes under different leadership tenures.

Giddings discusses the difficulties associated with shifts in presidential leadership, emphasizing the strengthening of the sorority's national office's governance and sway over its programs across the country, taking into account the traditions and inclinations of the members. During the 1920s, under Ethel Calimese's presidency, her inaction on several issues and poor fiscal oversight almost pushed the sorority to the brink of disaster. Giddings recounts an episode at Fisk University where Calimese's choice to admit a young woman who did not meet the academic standards resulted in accusations of overstepping her bounds, even though the regional director was against it.

The book describes how Dorothy Height prolonged her leadership beyond the two consecutive terms initially prescribed by the organization's founding regulations. Paula Giddings notes that Height was able to convincingly argue to the fraternity's members the importance of her continued leadership, especially during the transition to a new headquarters and the commencement of complex initiatives such as the employment generation program and the establishment of the National Library. Her accomplishments of these important goals resulted in internal divisions and heightened worries about the concentration of power within the organization, stemming from the tactics employed by Height. Giddings emphasizes the challenges Delta encounters in pursuing its expansive mission while avoiding restriction to a single, cohesive political objective, particularly in light of the changing composition and leadership of its members.

Practical Tips

• Set up a 'change pace meter' for your projects to gauge and adjust the speed of changes being implemented. Use a simple tracking system, like a spreadsheet or a whiteboard, where you can mark the progress of changes on a weekly basis. This visual aid can help you and your team assess whether you need to speed up or slow down without getting overwhelmed.
• To avoid inaction, establish a personal accountability system with a friend or family member. Share your goals and the actions you plan to take to achieve them. Set up regular check-ins to update each other on your progress. This mutual accountability can motivate you to take action and follow through on your commitments.
• Develop a personal code of ethics that outlines your boundaries and standards for decision-making. This code should include clear criteria for when it's acceptable to bend rules and the values that guide these exceptions. For instance, if you value inclusivity and believe in giving opportunities to those with unconventional backgrounds, your code might include provisions for when and how to make exceptions for individuals who don't meet standard criteria but demonstrate potential in other ways.
• Create a self-evaluation system to assess your leadership impact during critical periods. Use this to determine if your leadership is still effective or if it's time to pass the torch. You might track specific outcomes related to your leadership, such as team morale, project completion rates, or the successful implementation of new initiatives.
• You can foster adaptability in group settings by rotating leadership roles during team projects. This encourages members to experience different perspectives and prevents the group from becoming too rigidly aligned with one person's vision. For example, if you're part of a book club or a community service group, switch the person who leads the discussion or organizes events each time you meet. This can help the group stay dynamic and open to various ideas, mirroring the challenges Delta faces.

The sorority's identity and heritage were shaped significantly by the founding members of Delta Sigma Theta throughout its evolution.

The enduring influence and viewpoints of its founders, including Bertha Pitts Campbell and Naomi Sewell Richardson, have molded the sorority throughout the years.

The enduring legacy of the founders of Delta Sigma Theta has continuously shaped and guided the development of the sorority, as emphasized by Paula Giddings. Bertha Campbell's dedication is highlighted by her enduring commitment to the initiatives of Delta and by founding the first college chapter in the Northwest, situated in Seattle, Washington. Despite initial hesitations regarding the formation of new chapters, the unwavering dedication of Campbell and Jimmie Middleton was instrumental in founding a new chapter during the 1920s in Raleigh, North Carolina. The initial chapter of Delta at the collegiate level within the state was founded in 1938 in Raleigh. Moreover, Campbell's advocacy for solidarity across racial lines, underscored by her role in establishing an organization predominantly composed of individuals dedicated to racial harmony, resonated with the sorority's increasing focus on fostering relationships that surpass racial and cultural divides, as observed by Giddings.

The author describes Naomi Sewell Richardson's unwavering dedication to the Delta's programs, which spanned her professional life in education and her time overseeing domestic matters, and this dedication led to her being honored with the esteemed Mary Church Terrell award in 1965. Giddings emphasizes the trailblazing role of individuals like Sadie Alexander, whose commitment to activism and academic pursuits resulted in her becoming the first African American woman to receive a Ph.D. in the United States, setting a precedent for Delta's advocacy for women's rights and the career aspirations of African American women. Giddings emphasizes the crucial function these leaders have in preserving stability during periods of change.

Context

• During the time Richardson was active, balancing professional and domestic roles was particularly challenging for women, especially African American women, due to societal expectations and racial discrimination.

Other Perspectives

• While Bertha Pitts Campbell and Naomi Sewell Richardson undoubtedly played pivotal roles in the founding and shaping of Delta Sigma Theta, it is also true that the sorority has evolved over time due to the contributions of many other members whose ideas and efforts have also significantly influenced its direction.
• While Bertha Campbell's efforts in founding the first college chapter in the Northwest are commendable, it is important to recognize that the success of such initiatives often relies on the collective efforts of many individuals, not just the founders.
• The focus on Campbell and Middleton may overshadow the broader historical context in which many African American Greek-letter organizations were expanding and establishing new chapters across the United States, which was part of a larger movement of civic engagement and educational advancement within the African American community during that era.
• There could be instances where the focus on cross-racial relationships may not fully resonate with all members or chapters, who might feel that there are still significant racial issues that need to be addressed within their own communities before extending beyond them.
• The emphasis on academic achievements as a measure of setting a precedent for advocacy might overlook other forms of activism and leadership that do not involve formal education but are equally significant in advancing the sorority's goals.
• The idea of stability might vary among members, and what is seen as stability by some could be perceived as stagnation by others, indicating that the role of leaders in maintaining stability could sometimes be at odds with the need for innovation and progress.

The leadership of Delta Sigma Theta adeptly maintained a balance between honoring their traditional practices and adopting modern innovations.

Paula Giddings observes the diligent balancing act the sorority performs in honoring its time-honored traditions while adapting to the evolving demands of its social and political environment. This tension surfaced throughout Delta’s history, Giddings explains, and became a pivotal issue with the sorority’s fiftieth anniversary celebrated in 1963 during Jeanne Noble’s presidency. During this era, individuals shifted from a phase of naive simplicity to a stage characterized by seasoned accountability, immersing themselves in introspection and assessment in anticipation of the impending trials posed by the Civil Rights movement. The author highlights numerous efforts that demonstrated this vigor, such as honoring the sorority's living founders to highlight its legacy, along with initiatives like "Teen Lift" which provided substantial guidance to young African American women across the country.

The organization felt a compelling need to reassess its primary objectives, influenced by the growing calls for a Black Power agenda, as noted by Giddings. The 1963 Golden Anniversary Jubilee underscored a theme that led the sorority to reflect on its future path in light of its historical accomplishments. The author details how Noble, influenced by her own experiences on interracial campuses and the demands for a more radical stand coming from younger Deltas, attempted to integrate the two. By 1963, Giddings notes, Delta had progressed past simply expressing concerns through traditional and more indirect forms of community service, and faced the task of maintaining organizational stability while meeting its social obligations. The sorority's enduring commitment to nurturing a sense of sisterhood gradually transformed into a resolute dedication to advancing equality, as Giddings narrates.

Practical Tips

• Develop a 'change journal' to document your journey of integrating new practices into your routine. Write down the traditional methods you currently use in any aspect of your life, such as work, personal development, or hobbies. Next to each, jot down a modern approach or technology that could complement or improve it. For instance, if you typically use a paper planner, consider how using a digital planning app could enhance your productivity. Track your experiences with these new methods over time to reflect on the balance you're achieving.
• You can evaluate your own traditions by creating a "Tradition Audit" spreadsheet. List all the traditions you adhere to in one column, and in adjacent columns, note their origins, the values they represent, and how they currently serve you or your community. This will help you see which traditions are still relevant and which may need to be adapted or retired.
• Reflect on significant milestones in your own life by creating a personal timeline. Start by jotting down key events and achievements, then delve into each one to assess its impact on your personal growth. For example, if you graduated from college, consider how that experience shaped your career path or worldview.
• Implement a personal "challenge response plan" by identifying areas in your life where you can expect future challenges, such as discussions on civil rights, and prepare specific strategies to address them. This could involve role-playing conversations, writing down your thoughts on sensitive topics, or setting up a support network to help you navigate through these challenges effectively.
• Create a digital tribute wall where people can post stories and photos to honor someone who has made a positive impact in their community. This could be a simple website or social media page dedicated to recognizing local leaders or mentors. By sharing their stories, you contribute to a living legacy that inspires others and fosters a sense of community pride.
• Engage with local businesses to foster a community-centric economic model by initiating a 'support local' challenge. Commit to purchasing from Black-owned businesses for a set period, such as a month, and document your experiences. Share your findings on social media or with friends to encourage a broader conversation about economic empowerment and the importance of supporting businesses that align with the Black Power agenda's values of community upliftment and self-reliance.
• Establish a "Future Planning Session" with peers or colleagues to brainstorm where you want to be in the next 50 years. Use a structured format like SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) to assess your current position and identify strategic steps forward. If you're part of a book club, for instance, discuss what types of literature you want to explore and what impact you aim to have on members' lives.
• Create a 'dialogue dinner' where you invite people of different generations to discuss specific topics that blend traditional and modern viewpoints. During these dinners, each person can share their perspective on a topic, such as the role of technology in education or perspectives on work-life balance. This setting fosters understanding and allows for the exchange of ideas in a respectful environment, potentially leading to a synthesis of values.
• Start a small-scale listening project in your neighborhood to identify pressing issues and develop targeted initiatives. This could involve door-to-door conversations or setting up a booth at local events to gather input, ensuring that your actions are informed by the actual needs and desires of the community members.
• Volunteer your time or skills to local organizations that work towards advancing equality. Look for opportunities where your contribution can make a significant impact, such as mentoring young women in fields where they are underrepresented or supporting initiatives that aim to provide equal opportunities for marginalized communities. By doing so, you're not only giving back but also gaining firsthand experience in the practical application of the values of sisterhood and equality.