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A M A N N A M E D "BEN W R I G H T . A message to America's top industries
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OCTOBER-NOVEMBER Vol. 55
No. 7
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc
This M a n ! . . creative .
BLACK POWER Features dr. nathan wright floyd mc kissick Jim Harris
dr. charles h. wesley
Next Issue:
Blacks Left out of U. S. History — Document
October-November 1969 Volume 55 number 7 Pages 7 & 8 have a section cut out, and pages 23, 24, 33 and 34 are missing The best copy available was scanned
ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC. National Headquarters / 4432 Dr. Martin Luther King Drive / Chicago, Illinois
ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC. DIRECTORY FOR 1969-1970 Jewel
Henry
A. Callis
2306
E Street,
N.E.,
Washington,
D.C.
General President — Ernest N. Morial 1821 Orleans Avenue, New Orleans, La. General Treasurer — Leven C. Weiss 4676 West Outer Drive, Detroit, Michigan Comptroller — Isidor J . LaMothe, Jr 1407 University Avenue, Marshall, Texsa General Counsel — Morris M. Hatchett 1456 E. Adelaide, St. Louis, Missouri Editor, "The Sphinx" — J . Herbert King 4728 Drexel Boulevard, Chicago, Illinois Executive Secretary — Laurence T. Y o u n g . . . .4432 Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive, Chicago, Illinois
70116 48235 75670 63107 60615 60653
Officers
Vice Presidents Eastern — W. Decker Clarke Midwestern — Gus T. Ridgel Southern — Bennie J . Harris Southwestern — Lillard G. Ashley, Sr Western — C. Paul Johnson
66 Dry Hill Road, Norwalk, Conn. 312 Cold Harbor Drive, Frankfort, Kentucky 602 Mooretown Terrace, Chattanooga, Tennessee P.O. Box 247, Boley, Oklahoma 17823 88th, N.E., Bothell, Washington
06851 40601 37411 74829 98011
Assistant Vice Presidents Eastern — Bobby Jones Midwestern — Carl W. McCoy Southern — Douglas Stokes Southwestern — William Holden Western — Fritzic Allen
Contributing Editors Malvin R. Goode, Martin L. Harvey, L. W. Jeffries, Eddie L. Madison, Frank L. Stanley, Sr., Art Sears, Jr., L. H. Stanton, Charles Wesley, Randolph White, O. Wilson Winters, Laurence T. Young, George M. Daniels. Editorial Advisory Committee Frank Ellis, Malvin R. Goode, Marshall Harris, John H. Johnson, Moss H. Kendrix, Belford V. Lawson, Samuel A. Madden, J. E. Martin, Lionel H. Newsom, Gus T. Ridgel. Staff Photographer Henry Crawford The Sphinx is the official magazine of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., 4432 Dr. Martin Luther King Dr., Chicago, III., with editorial offices at 4728 Drexel Blvd., Chicago, III. 60615. Published four times a year: February, May, October and December. Address all editorial mail to 4728 Drexel Blvd., Chicago, III. 60615. Change of Address: Send both addresses to Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, 4432 Dr. Martin Luther King Drive, Chicago, III. Manuscripts or art submitted to The Sphinx should be accompanied by addressed envelopes and return postage. Editor assumes no responsibility for return of unsolicited manuscripts of art. Opinions expressed in columns and articles do not necessarily reflect the views and policies of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., and use of any person's name in fiction, semi-fiction articles or humorous features is to be regarded as a coincidence and not as the responsibility of The Sphinx. It is never done knowinqly. Copyright 1968 by The Sphinx, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Reproduction or use, without written permission, of the editorial or pictorial content in any manner is prohibited.
3253 Yale Station, New Haven, Connecticut 7313 S. Perry Avenue, Chicago, Illinois Knoxville College, Knoxville, Tennessee Box 4598, Arkansas A & M College, Pine Bluff, Arkansas 613 Johnson Drive, Richmond, California
06520 60621 37921 71601 94806
Committee Chairmen Committee on Standards & Extension — Wayne C. Chandler
2913 N.E. 18th, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73111 Committee on Housing & Building Foundation William M. Alexander, 4272 Washington Blvd., St. Louis, Missocri 63108 Historical Commission — Charles H. Wesley 1824 Taylor Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20018 Committee on Publications — Moses General Miles Florida A & M University, Tallahassee, Florida 32307 Committee on Awards & Achievement — Arnold W. Wright, Sr 311 Cold Harbor Drive, Frankfort, Kentucky 30601 Committee on Rules and Credentials — Andrew J . Lewis, II 2861 Engle Road, N.W., Atlanta, Georgia 30318 Director-Education Foundation — Thomas D. Pawley, III 1014 Lafayette Street. Jefferson City, Missouri 65101
REGIONAL DIRECTORS Eastern Region Massachusetts — Bro. James Howard Rhode Island — B r o . Ralph Allen Connecticut — Bro. W. Decker Clark New York, Northern New Jersey — Bro. Albert Holland Pennsylvania, Delaware, Southern N. J . — Bro. Frank Devine Maryland-Washington — Bro. Thomas Hunt Virginia — Bro. Talmage Tabb
105 Greenwood St., Boston, Mass. 179 Doyle Ave., Providence, R. I. 66 Dry Hill Road, Norwalk, Conn. 31 Hickory Hill Rd., Tappan, N. Y. 6202 Washington Ave., Phila., Pa. 911 Spa Dd., Annapolis, Md. 324 Greenbriar Ave., Hampton, Va.
M i d w e s t e r n Region Northern Indiana — Bro. William J . Bolden 3157 West 19th Avenue, Gary, Indiana Northwest Ohio — Bro. Robert Stubbleford 1340 West Woodruff, Toledo, Ohio Northeastern Ohio — Bro. Curtis Washington 889 Hartford, Akron, Ohio Central Ohio — Bro. Oliver Sumlin 2427 Hoover Avenue, Dayton, Ohio West Missouri-Kansas — Bro. Jimmie L. Buford 2645 Lorkridge Avenue, Kansas Ciity, Mo. Eastern Missouri — Bro. Clifton Bailey 3338A Aubert Avenue, St. Louis 15, Mo. Northern Michigan — Bro. W. Wilberforce Plummer... 654 Wealthy Street, N. E., Grand Rapids, M i c h . West Michigan — Bro. William Boards, Jr 680 W. Van Buren Street, Battle Creek, M i c h . Southern Michigan — Bro. Robert J . Chillison, II 16155 Normandy, Detroit, Michigan Southwest Ohio — Bro. Holloway Sells 699 N. Crescent Avenue, Cincinnati, Ohio Iowa — Bro. Everett A. Mays 701 Hull Avenue, Des Moines, Iowa 50316 Southern Illinois — Bro. Harold Thomas 1731 Gaty Avenue, East St. Louis, Illinois Northern Illinois — Bro. J . Herbert King 4728 Drexel Blvd., Chicago, Illinois 60615 Kentucky — Bro. Waverly B. Johnson 1306 Cecil Avenue, Louisville, Kentucky Wisconsin — Bro. Hoyt Harper 5344 N. 64th, Milwaukee, Wis. Central Missouri — Bro. Nathaniel R. Goldston, III Lincoln University, Jefferson City, Mo. 65101 West Virginia — Bro. J . A. Shelton Post Office Box, 314 Welch, West Va. Southern Indiana — Bro. Theodore Randall 3B10 Rockwood Avenue, Indianapolis, Indiana Nebraska — Bro. Thomas A. Phillips 3116 North 16th Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68110 Regional Secretary — Bro. Cramon Myers 404 West 44th Street. Indianapolis, Indiana Regional Counsel — Bro. James R. Williams 978 Dover, Akron, Ohio 44320 Southwestern Region Bro. Vernon L. Foshee Oklahoma Bro. Elliot J . Keyes Louisiana Bro. T. E. Patterson Arkansas Texas — B ro. Reby Cary Texas — Bro Victor Smith Arkansas — Bro. M. L. Fridia Arkansas — Bro. George Howard At-Large — Bro. Paul Smith
725 Terrace Blvd., Muskogee. Oklahoma 7462 Benjamin St., New Orleans, Louisiana 1624 W. 21st St., Little Rock, Arkansas 1804 Bunche Dr., Ft. Worth, Texas 2004 N. Adams, Amarillo. Texas 1200 Pulaski, Little Rock, Ark. 60 Watson Blvd., Pine Bluff, Ark. Ark. A and M College, Pine Bluff, Ark. Southern Region
The Sphinx has been published continuously since 1914. Organizing Editor: Bro. Raymond W. Cannon. Organizing General President: Bro. Henry Lake Dickason.
Alabama — B r o . Kirkwood Ballon Florida — B r o . Oral A. Allen Georgia — Bro. Henry Collier, M.D Mississippi — Bro. T. J . Ranee North Carolina — Bro. Leonard R. Balloc South Carolina — Bro. W. J . Davis Tennessee —• Bro. Charles Tarpley
1303 Main St., Birmingham, Ala. 1471 N.W. 179th St., Miami, Fla. 33169 1527 Mills B. Lane Ave.. Savannah. G a . . . 407 Washington Street, Brookhaven, Miss. P.O. Box 10 - State College, Elizabeth City. N.C. 27909 4509 Williamsburg Drive, Columbia, S. C. 1429 S. Parkway East, Memphis, Tenn.
Second class postage paid at Chicago, III. Postmaster: Send form 3579 and all correspondence, 4728 Drexel Blvd., Chicago, III. 60615.
W e s t e r n Region Northwest District Director — Bro. Clifford E. Donley Southwest District Director — Bro. Floyd Plymouth Central District Director — Bro. Clifford W. Basfield Southern District Director — Bro. Clyde C. Osborne
347 29th, 1940 Leona St., 2245 E. 11th 5467 Bradna,
Seattle. Washington Las Vegas, Nevada St., Stockton, Calif. Los Angeles, Calif.
Official
Organ
ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY, INC. THERE GOES AN ALPHA MAN There goes a man of high impulse Of princely mien and grace There goes a man of humble faith A credit to his race There goes a man of conscience vast with will to reach his goal There goes a man of lordly rank Of heroes' stock and soul— There goes a man of noble caste Whom hardship cannot break There goes a man in merit clad Whom duty won't forsake There goes a man in cultured verse Who holds a sportsman's creed There goes a man loo vigilant To bow to lust or greed There goes a man whose life is spent in service not in scorn There goes a man whose majesty Shines like a May time
There goes a man who is a friend To love and duty truth There goes a man to help uplift The lives of wholesome youth There goes a man with industry and faith at his command. There goes the best man in and out For he is an Alpha Man.
Volume 55
Number 7
October 1969
J. HERBERT KING Editor-in-Chief 4728 DREXEL BOULEVARD CHICAGO,
ILLINOIS
60615
CONTENTS Welcome — Governor of Texas
2
Welcome —• Mayor of Houston, Texas
3
The General President Speaks
4
Convention Press Conference
5
Omega Chapter
5
Keynoter — Brother Nathan Wright
6
Black Economics — Brother Floyd McKissick
7
Militancy or Moderation — Brother Wm. H. Brown, III
8
Texas Senator Barbara Jordon
10
Convention Job Conference
12
Convention Social Activities
14
A Man Named Ben Wright
20
Creative Black Power — Brother James A. Harris
22
National Headquarters — Brother A. Maceo Smith
24
Alpha Gardens — St. Louis, Mo
26
Frat Fun — Brother Winters
29
Alpha Work-shop — Brother Laurence T. Young
32
Book Review and Poet's Corner
33
First Fraternity
34
Letters To The Editor
36
Don't miss the December Issue Facts About Black Greeks . . . In Honor of the Alpha Jewels . . . Alpha Founders Speak . . . The exciting quotes from Brother Belford V. Lawson's Convention Address, and other interesting news.
WE HAD A MOST PRODUCTIVE CONVENTION... THANKS, GOVERNOR SMITH
STATE OF EXECUTIVE PRESTON SMITH GOVERNOR
TEXAS
DEPARTMENT
AUSTIN
May 15, 1969
TO THOSE ATTENDING THE SIXTY-THIRD GENERAL CONVENTION OF THE ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY: I a m delighted to have this opportunity to welcome each of you attending the Sixty-third G e n e r a l Convention of the Alpha P h i Alpha F r a t e r n i t y to Texas and to the City of Houston, August 2-6, 1969. To the v i s i t o r s to our State, I extend a special w e l c o m e . I am confident you will find t r u e Texas hospitality awaiting you. I know t h e r e will be much to i n t e r e s t you in the g r e a t City of Houston, but do hope you have the opportunity to visit other p a r t s of our state while you a r e h e r e . Best wishes for a p l e a s a n t and productive convention.
P r e s t o n Smith Governor of Texas PS:mch
2
THANK YOU! MR MAYOR... ALPHAS WILL LONG REMEMBER HOUSTON! 9^%. k,/ X ^ B v *
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OFFICE OF THE MAYOR C I T Y OF HOUSTON TEXAS
LOUIE WELCH
MAVOR
May
26,
1969
TO THE MEMBERS OF ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY: I am most pleased, to extend the official welcome of the City of Houston to each of you in attendance at Sixty-third General Convention of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity. Your selection of Houston as the site for this important session, August 2-6, 1969, is an honor for the City. I feel certain that you will find Houston all that you expect it to be and I am confident that your convention will be both successful and productive. Sincerely,
^ZZL^JTZ^^^Mayor LW:sr
ALPHAS THE GENERAL
PRESIDENT
SPEAKS . . . G e n e r a l P r e s i d e n t E r n e s t N. M o r i a l Your General President expresses personal thanks and appreciation to all past and present officers and brothers throughout the Country for the many kindnesses extended during his brief tenure of office. I express gratitute to all appointed officers, chairmen and members of all committees. The 1970 appointments will be announced on or before January 1, 1970. GENERAL OFFICERS' REPORTS: All General Officers presented annual reports indicating the magnitude of work and effort in their respective offices. The General Treasurer'sreport indicated a healthy financial growth. Report from the General Office indicated remarkable growth in membership and wide expansion as to undergraduate and graduate chapters (new) throughout the Country. We now have the largest number of active Alpha brothers in the history of the Fraternity, and Life Memberships continue to be dramatic with over 600 Life members at present. CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENTS: Several constitutional amendments were adopted, and will be presented to the chapters for approval or otherwise within the prescribed time, among which was one with respect to furnishing a lower level facility for Life Members at the General Office Building. More on that later. Proposal of Brother John D. Buckner, who continues to spear head at each Convention since 1966, LIFE MEMBER'S BREAKFAST, each better than the preceeding one. RECOMMENDATIONS: BLACK/NEGRO HISTORY: I recommend that Alpha Phi Alpha join with the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History in convening a National Conference on Negro/Black History and Culture. SPECIAL PROJECTS AND CONTRIBUTIONS: That this Convention establish, create and assess a Special Projects and Contributions Tax on each chapter to be paid to the General Organization for distribution among the several, or to special project of the Fraternity as recommended by the Board of Directors and approved by the Convention. WASHINGTON BUREAU OFFICE: This Convention authorize and direct the Board of Directors of the Fraternity to explore the feasibility of establishing, operating and maintaining a Washington Bureau Office of Alpha Phi Alpha. GENERAL OFFICE (DEDICATION): The renovation and remodelling of the General Office, initiated by past General President Newsom has now been completed. The property adjacent thereto has been razed and the weather-proofing of the south wall, paving and making ready for "off street parking" is underway. Plans for the formal dedication are in the making, to which all Alphadom will be expected to attend. Brother A. Maceo Smith, also a past General President, chairman of this Committee made a complete report, outlining the work accomplished, and the cost of same which will place the building in the $100,000.00 asset colcmn. Brother Smith's report concludes with this statement: "It is the judgment of the Committee that the investment in this property improves the basic value and usefulness thereof and sustains an increasing asset factor. This does not obviate or give consideration to the final or future relocation of National Headquarters in this, or some other City." SPECIAL PROJECTS: A program was developed in light of our sound financial condition and resources, to contribute significantly to those projects in which we profess to have a profound interest. Contributions were made to Brother Paul Robeson, and plans made to erect a memorial of a sort on the campus at Rutgers University, where Brother Robeson not only distinguished himself, but distinguished the University as well. Contributions were made and forwarded to Brother Charles Evers in Mississippi to aid the gigantic program being undertaken by him as a City official. 4
On The Move DAYTON, OHIO Theta Lambda welcomed Bro. Vernard W. Henley upon his arrival to the city of Dayton to assume the position as President of the new Unity State Bank. Bro. James L. Sweeney, Unity Bank Campaign Chairman, contributed immeasurably towards the sale of 24,000 shares of stock which sold for $25 a share. The 24,000 shares were the minimum capitalization required for the bank to open. The Unity State Bank is the first black community-controlled institution in the state of Ohio. For the second year Theta Lambda and the Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce sponsored Job Opportunity Day at three local high schools. Cooperaitng in the program were the Economic Progress Committee and Dayton Public Schools. Twenty-seven companies participated in the program by conducting on-site job interviews at the three high schools. The program was aimed directly at the graduating high school seniors who do not plan to attend college and will be looking for full-tie employment upon graduation. The students were provided counseling on how to seek employment, including appropriate dress and the need for a positive attitude. A statistical summary of the Job Opportunity Day is as follows: Number of companies reporting 18 of 27 Number of students interviewed 1079 Able to communicate well 974 (90%) Well mannered 1070 (99%) Well prepared 839 (78%) Considered solid applicants 681 (63%) The program received endorsements and praise from Secretary of Labor, George P. Shultz, and Congressman Charles W. Whalen, Jr. Finally, Theta Lambda has also sponsored a little league baseball team consisting of 13 members. At this writing the Alpha Phi Alpha team is ranked number one in a league of six teams.
Convention Press Conference
Omega Chapter
1969 BROTHER NORMAN W. MANLEY DIES
General President Brother Morial and Brother Nathan Brown face the nation's television viewers and the press during the 63rd Annual Convention.
Brother Nathan Wright, A.B., B.D., S.T.M., Ed.D, delivered a most eloquent address, as indicated by the accompanying quotes. Brother Wright, a top consultant on various State Commissions relating to Urban Affairs, has been cited for work promoting the morale among U.S. soldiers during the post World War II period. Brother Wright is President of Dr. Wright and Associate, Inc., and has authored the following books: Let's Work Together (Hawthorn, New York), One Bread, One Body (Seabury, New York), The Song of Mary (Bruce Humphries, Boston), The Riddle of Life (Bruce Humphries, Boston), Black Power and Urban Unrest (Hawthorn, New York). This Black Power Scholar is the Professor of Urban Affairs at State University of New York at Albany.
MOVED OR CHANGED ADDRESS If so, please fill in the information (type or print) required below and return to the Editor, Alpha Phi Alpha General Headquarters, 4432 Martin Luther King Drive, Chicago, Illinois 60653 Chapter New Address. City
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Send $1.00 if you want the current issue. Changes of address received from the Post Office are expensive and sometimes inaccurate. The return of this coupon will enabge us to up-date your master membership records and assure delivery of THE SPHINX.
Since the closing of the Convention we are all saddened at the passing of Brother Norman W. Manley, former Leader of the Peoples' Party in Pamaica, West Indies. It will be remembered that the Charter of Beta Beta Lambda Chapter (Miami, Florida) was extended at the 31st General Convention in Chicago, December, 1945, so as to include the West Indies, at which Convention Brother Manley was duly initiated into the Fraternity. Brother Manley was the speaker at the Public Program at the Convention and the closing statement of his address rings true, according to our present day thinking: "If you want respect, you must demand it, and if you demand it, you must fight for it." A memorial service was held for Brother Manley Sunday, September 14, 1969, at St. Augustine's Cathedral in Chicago, at which service Alpha Phi Alpha was represented, presenting a resolution which was read as part of this service.
Brother Leroy Patrick, Convention Chaplain, conducted the memorial service and inducted the following brothers into Omega Chapter. James Edward Abrams James M. Allison Burnside E. Anderson William W. Bennett Benson M. Boutte Harry G. Bragg James E. Brown William H. Brown George A. Buckner Arkley A. Dalton John C. Dancy, Jr. Kar! L Douglass Maurice A. Edmond William A. Edwards Eric W. Epps W. G. Ewell (Continued on page 40)
(/brother
f/aihan
VUrlaht.
. .
Sets the Climate for 63rd Annual Convention "Life is designed for every man to become what in the mind of the Agency of its creation it is destined to be. We must see each life — or identify it . . . as it is seen in cosmic perspective." "Power for each life to become what God would have it be is what is the essential practical meaning or import of Black Power." "We need as Black men to define our own destiny. We must not hesitate to speak of black nationalism which simply means black-group self interest, preservation and fulfillment." "Black men need power for self determination and not whatever comes through the goodness of white men's hearts." "The Black Community sends its best minds into these areas. The White Community sends its best minds elsewhere. Hence, any urban related or educational or religious enterprises which does not have a substantial core of Black men in its leadership, planning and Administration is therefore impoverished." "White Americans must unscrew what American have screwed up. To do otherwise is to be niggardly. It can also prove deadly, because it means to perpetuate self destruction." "White businesses and foundations," he maintained, "must invest in the Black Community; only as every part of the nation prospers can the nation as a whole remain secure." Editor's Note: A Houston reporter criticizes Brother Wright. Read it in December issue. Brother Wright is shown above at a dramatic moment during his address.
Quotes from an Inspiring Address "Only the ignorant or the frightened could misunderstand Black Power as speaking to the unmet needs of all in America." "Black men have been cast out to the balconies of American life. People who sit in the balconies have a dramatic distance. They can see, understand, articulate, interpret and prescribe for life at the center of the stage better than can the actual participants at the center of the stage." "People at the margins of any Society," he added, "have marginal insight. They are the greatest creative force available to the society which includes them. In Biblical terms they are like a saving remnant. Unless and until competent, candid self aware and self accepting black men move to the helms of leadership in every area of the nation's life, we shall not be saved from our charted path of self destruction." Without these two he insisted "the black man can never hope to be free." "The most creative force of our lifetime." "Those who have studied the classics know that without power there can be no life that is worthy of the name." "Black Power," so Dr. Wright held, "goes beyond even Aristotle's Classic statement of the human purpose in suggesting the means as well as the goal of human life, which is fulfillment." 6
SPENCER LEWIS OF SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY ESSAY WINNER The 1969 essay contest first prize of $200 was won by Spencer Lewis of Southern University, second prize of $100 by Sylvia Taylor of Dillard University, and third prize of $50 by Samuel Gibbs of Dillard University. Judges for the national contest were Professor Cecil A. Blue, Assistant Professor Moxye King, and Assistant Professor Ernestine Robinson, all of the Department of English at Lincoln University, Jefferson City, Missouri, and the Director of Educational Activities. Three regions sponsored contests: the southwestern, the eastern, and the midwestern- Winners of regional contests automatically qualified for the national contest.
COCA COLA—ALPHA PHI ALPHA SCHOLARSHIP WON BY TULSA STUDENT Winner of the 1969 Coca Cola Alpha Phi Alpha Scholarship is Delbert R. Stephens, a graduate of Tulsa Central Senior High School. Tulsa, Oklahoma. This young man ranked in the top 25 per cent of his class and had an overall average of B + . He will attend Drury College in Springfield, Missouri where he expects to major in chemistry. The amount of the award is $1,500.
Economics of Black Power
Standard Procedure for
Brother Floyd McKissick
Alpha Housing Loans Brother William M. Alexander, Chairman, Board of Directors, Building Foundation, stated that the standard procedure in planning for loans, grants or leases be established. The following directive is effective as of this date: A graduate or undergraduate chapter desiring aid should send a written request to the Chairman, Secretary, or Assistant Secretary of the Building Foundation to obtain an application and standards form. These forms are also available through the Regional VicePresidents.
Brother Floyd
McKissick
Brother Floyd McKissick addressed the panel on the "Economics of Black Power." The following are quotes from his discussion: "Integration is no solution to the racial problem if black men 'try to be white.'" "A black man will die a failure if he emasculates his personality trying to be white."
This application form is to be filled out completely considering all details (undergraduate groups should pay particular attention to the requirement for graduate sponsorship where substantial sums are involved). The completed application is to be forwarded to the Regional Vice-President for his approval and transmittal to the Chairman of the Application Committee, Brother Meredith G. Ferguson, 1701 Twenty-First Avenue, North, Nashville, Tenn. 37208. After proper consideration, the Application Committee will report the application with its recommendation to the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Building Foundation for consideration and proper action. Please be guided by this directive in the future.
"Integration is desirable to a white man as long as he is in control." "The black man's plight is a racial issue. You can't talk about housing or economics or religion without talking about blackness." "It is not black people's fault that black communities exist. Black communities were formed when the white population moved out." "The idea is not to argue the facts, but what to do about the problem." "As for nonviolence, black men have as much to defend themselves as anyone else." "When S h e r m a n ' s Union Army marched to the sea, he let the niggers do his burning for him and promised them 40 acres of land and a mule. Now,
National Headquarters Committee Report The following is a recapitulation of the 1, com tl Offi d H.) R
Martin Luther King, Ir. Drive
1,200.00
$103,119.47 It is the judgment of the Committee that the investment in this property improves the basic value and usefulness thereof and sustains an increasing asset factor. This does not obviate or give consideration to the final or future relocation of National Headquarters in this or some other city. This Committee commends all who have played a part in this project. Members of the National Headquarters Committee are: John D. Buckner Harold D. Langrum Meredith G. Ferguson Charles M. Johnson William M. Alexander, Vice Chairman A. Maceo Smith, Chairman ALPHA AWARD OF MERIT
when black men want to dosome burning for themselves, the white man says, 'No, don't do that. That's wrong.'" "F'm not hung up on ideology. Folks all over the world in every system are kicking at their oppressors. I believe in taking the best from every system." "Black people are the only conscience left in this country. When a white man sees you walking down the street, he knows he's wrong." Brother McKissick said he is interested in five major areas of black power: legal power, economic image, law enforcement, leadership training and consumer organization. He termed the discussion "not a discussion of economics, but of survival."
Brother Theodore M. Berry receives award with a smile.
the
7
Militancy or Moderation - Which Way to Progress BY BROTHER WILLIAM H. BROWN III, CHAIRMAN OF EQUAL OPPORTUNITY COMMISSION try, so often, particularly during the last five or ten years, that the only time we get any action is when the bell goes off. And if the bell goes off at the fire station because there is a city burning, or if the bell is fired on top of a police car because they are looting the town. It seems that it is high time that we stop reacting as Pavlov's dogs did, and instead make a serious attempt to erase the causes of the unrest with which we have been faced for the past five or six years. The effects o fsuch rioting are shocking. The cost in human lives and economic waste is appalling. The need for reform is too long in coming. Apparently, the major tangible progress which we found is the effectiveness with which police and the government have learned to quiet unruly populus. The report to the President of riots and civil disorders has clearly outlined the causes undesirable and wasteful rioting. According to the Commission's report, one of the major causes is discrimination in employment practices. The Federal Government has provided a remedy in the 1964 Civil Rights Act which makes it unlawful to discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, or sex in employment practices. The needs for such legislation as Title 7 is almost self-evident. However, minority groups are still denied equal job opportunities in this country. Let us look at the employmentployment picture of the nation. The signs of discrimintion are clear. A governmental agency in Washington, Bro. Brown receives plaque from General President, Bro. Mortal D. C. released statistics for a recent study which showed This is more or less like a homecoming affair for me that for the past 13 years the unemployment rate for nonbecause during the past five or six months that I have been which has been twice for whites. The U.S. government stpdy on the Commission, 1 have been going into more of the government study projects that this unployment rate will be hostile camps, and so here I feel at home. It comes as rather the same in 1975 if present discriminatory practive remain in interesting and gratifying to know that you feel so deeply effect. Ohers statistics show that the average Black family is about what I am about to say that you desired to even present only 58% of the average white family income. In 1966, we the plaque in advance. find that 46% of the total white work force was classified I might say that for those who don't know Ray Scruggs as white collar; while only 17% of the total black work force well, that he has had the ability to find two rare accounts; was classified as white collar status. And these statistics behe has combined the talent of whole intelligence of all of come even more astounding when we find that whites comthe warm, understanding hearts. And because of that, he is prise 95% of the total white collar work force, while they one of the top Vice-Presidents of the A T & T Company. comprise only 70% of the total population. And while the And this accomplishment was given to him on merit. Had nation's economy becomes increasingly more white collar he had ben white, he very well may have been President! oriented, the fact is that 80% of the white workers are conBut, it is indeed a pleasure for me to be here today. You centrated in blue collar positions, which underscores the know I was listening to Mr. Galvin; certainly his company, quality of discrimination. An examination of the rationale ofand certainly Ben Wright, they justly deserve the accomfered now by businesses and professional men in unfair and motion and acclamation that has been given to them this afdiscriminatory business practives is revealing. Yet, this is a ternoon. I was just thinking, as an attorney, what was the real sad commentary on the hypocricy of our nation. The and the importance and real meaning exactly. I guess some of the community today has unknowingly perpetuated a system of old fellows around like Belford Lawson and some of the employment with discrimination again minority members. others can answer that question. If the person committed an But the hyocricy of employers is not our main concern. A offense was arrested and happened to be a millionaire and he group of men like ourselves in this discriminatory process is had $100, he would get out. If a person who also had made the question which is before us. Of course, we can determine the same offense did not have the $100 because he was poor our role our responsibility only by working with the facts. The and because he had not had the opportunity of working, he, statistics quoted do not point out an occasional act of emof course, would stay in jail. It seems to me that this is the ployment discrimination, or even occasional discrimination difference between legality and that which is legal. I would through intention. These statistics reflect the national system like to say that in accordance with Brother Scruggs has said of discrimination and it is this system which we of the Equal that he is happy to see that a young man is on the ComEmployment Commission are working to elimate. Our goal mission; but I don't know who he was talking about—you is to remove this stigma of the nation. see, I was not that young. (Continued next page) Ladies and gentlemen, it seems to me that in this counS
MILITANCY OR MODERATION (Continued from page 8) Our hope for the future is for a stronger, more just society. The idea is much like pruning a tree. The result of pruning is a more successful, fruitful tree; even though part of it is removed, the original tree survives and flourishes. So, we have a basic faith in this country, yet recognize that discrimination in any of its forms is incompatible with our national purpose. Let us be mindful of the effect upon a minority before the grips of discrimination is removed from them. We cannot ignore these people. We must honestly face their plight. In frustration, they turn to rioting and destruction as in Watts, Detroit, and Newark. We all know that with such tensions the extent of what might happen next is fruitful. Whether many of us are affected by these incidents, very few of us were actual participants. How many of you were in these riots or were in places wheer the frustrations and tensions led to material destruction? Ho wmany of you were participating in the looting? Or aggravated an already overheated feeling? I would speculate that most of you were first made aware of these riots on the TV set; and perhaps many of you watched these riots on color TV sets, and hardly mean to belittle color TV sets.I only mean to point out that difference between you who sit here and those who suffer in the ghetto. I see a difference of life styles, of interest, and of responsibility. I believe there are men like ourselves who exercise positive leadership, and there are brothers in the ghettos who respond to what they see as the endless poverty and frustration. At EEOC, we work on permanent action programs. We urge employers to take positive steps towards eliminating those procedures which contribute to discrimination. But the Commission does not have the power nor the ability to go everywhere and do everything. To achieve our task of eliminating discrimination in employment, we have to depend upon citizens to pick up the ball. We need you to take up the affirmative action of citizens. To do this, you must appreciate the use of force, pressure and law and order tatics. Our task is not a simple one. Our opponents, some even unintentionally, are strong. We are working to overcome a well entrenched system of discrimination. We are going against what most of this nation views as quite adequate employment procedures. And therefore, we have to treat employment discrimination on its own grounds. Working on discrimination, as well as change, we must undermine its base. Where there is an undesirable unemployment system situation perpetuated in each working day, we must point out its limitations and its injustices. And finally, in seeking a change, we must provide remedies for those who the system has injured. Most of us—teachers, businessmen, professionals—have some classification in white collar jobs. We are truly a select group. Many of us are spokesmen for the needs of all Black people. We must speak up; we must lead. And we must be ever mindful of the fact that merely being first does not necessarily connote leadership. It is with Civil Rights as with politics—political vacuums do not exist for long. Such vacuums are always filled by someone regardless of their abilities. Too often, individual leadership results all because of inaction of others. For much too long the moderate has failed to assert his leadership. With each passing day of inaction,
those who suffer discrimination will be guilty of using the position o fthe militants with more credibility. If we do not act soon, our position as minority leaders may become meaningless. But if people finally lose their faith and hope in our leadership, the ultimate effect of the militant actions will result in more destruction and additional tragedy. Senseless rioting can only serve to hurt the nation's resources and repair destruction. These resources could be utilized in getting set in constructive programs. On this issue, we as individuals and as a group should be vocal. We should constantly keep the needs of frustrated minorities before government leaders. We must speak up for those who are being improperly hurt. If men like you are complacent about your responsibilities in this country, we need hardly be bothered with the question of militancy or moderation. If the members of Alpha Phi Alpha do not exercise competent leadership, then the progress and achievement of the Civil Rights area will be short lived, if progress is to be made at all. Our efforts will hopefully result in change, accomplished through established procedures, rather than forced by the militant's views of destructive power. I would call your attention to the sad fact of the disparity of income between Black and white in American actually increases with the level of education attained. The average annual earnings of an average Black college graduate is $1,040 less than a white high school drop-out. Here is another thing you should think about seriously Those of you who are students should think about another kind of discrimination from employers who recruit mainly from Black universities. Many only go to Howard and Fisk, and I might point out to you this is called recruitment if they go to one school in addition to Howard, this is called a grand recruitment because they have then gone to 3 Black colleges. Only a few graduates in a lesser known Black school are interviewed. Another group of recruiters will interview at the larger White universities for minority groups, but they are only interested in Supermen. I think I have the right to criticize my own brothers, because I am one of them. I have an equal right to be critical of you (recruiters) because you have done your job. You know we have heard, until we are all sick and tired of it, of this question of law and order across the country. And those of us from the minority communities certainly would love to see law and order. If you were to check all the records and all the statistics, it would very clearly indicate to you that the chances o fa Black man being robbed or being burglarized is probably some 2,000 percent greater than his white counterpart in the suburbs. So we do want to see law and order. All of the indications will also point out that the Black man is subject to improper arrests and improper visitation by the police, and perhaps something should be done about this. But I think of greater importance, if we are indeed concerned with law and order, is the fact that the statute of the Civil Rights Act of 1954 is the law of the land and that should be obeyed. Because, gentlemen, the man who robbed you of your opportunity to get a decent job is no better than the man who robbed you of your wallet. They both achieved the same results. You know, so many times in your companies, and I have had it happen time and time again, (Continued on page 39) 9
Meet...TEXAS SENATOR BARBARA JORDAN ^J\eunote
Speaker
at f-^uotlc
Ivleetin%
orary Doctorate Degree, Boston University, Boston. Massachusettes. Senator Jordan is a member of the following professional organizations: Massachusettes Bar, State Bar of Texas, American Bar Association, Houston Lawyers Association and Texas Trial Lawyers Association. This was the first time in the history of the Fraternity that a woman has given a major address for an Alpha Convention. More than 700 Alphas and their guests gave Senator Jordan a standing ovation for her eloquent speech.
.^•^B •* Senator Jordan listens intently as Brother Arnold W. Wright, Chairman of the Alpha Awards Committee, reads her citation— the ALPHA AWARD OF HONOR.
The Honorable Barbara C. Jordan, Senator of the State of Texas, delivered the Public Program Address during the Sixty-Third Anniversary General Convention of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. The program was held in the Texas Southern University Auditorium, Sunday, August 3, 1969. Senator Jordan, a graduate of Texas Southern University, B.A, 1956 (Magna Cum Laude) and Boston University School of Law, LL.B., 1959 (Dean, Kappa Beta Phi, Legal Sorority), is the first Negro woman Senator in the State of Texas. While serving in the Senate she achieved the following distinctions; first Black woman to preside over a State Senate in the United States; first Negro to serve in the Texas Senate since 1883; first Negro to chair a major committee in Texas Senate. The former teacher of Political Science (Tuskegee Institute) served as chairman of Labor and Management Relations Committee and vice chairman, Privileges and Elections Committee of the 61st Legislature. The highly popular community leader was selected by United Press International in 1967 as one of the top 10 most influential women in Texas. Senator Jordan was named to the Commission on Income Maintenance Programs by President Johnson in January, 1968. A delegate, Democratic Convention, 1968; Chairman Government Group, Society for the performing Arts Audience Building Committee, 1968, Houston; a member, Regional Advisory Committee, Regional Medical Program of Texas, The University of Texas System are among her credentials of achievements. In May of 1968, Senator Jordan was awarded the Hon10
Senator Jordan introduces General President Louie Welch of Houston, Tex.
Morial
to Mayor
Brother Wright congratulates Brother Haley Bell of Detroit, received an Alpha award of tenure.
who
SEMINAR RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE 63rd A N N I V E R S A R Y PANEL: DEVELOPMENT IN EDUCATION Children all have similar potential at birth. The differences occur in the qualities of education. Therefore: In that the present time is one of great concern for achieving full participation of black people in American life; In that education is the primary avenue for gaining this participation; Be it resolved that Alpha Phi Alpha give special encouragement to its brothers and chapters to participate in: I. Local educational programs aimed at enriched opportunities for black children. II. Programs aimed at creating an acceptable self-awareness and creating a dynamic understanding for himself and his society. III. Programs aimed at full participation of more blacks into higher education. IV. Programs aimed at supplying quality education for black students who are by-passed in the conventional educational program. V. National programs of quality education for black students subsidized by federal, state and municipal governments. PANEL: EDUCATION FOUNDATION, INC. I. That the Board of Directors of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, incorporated take the necessary steps to implement the establishment of the Alpha Phi Alpha Library as approved last year (see page 10 of the 1968 Annual Report of the Director of Educational Activities). II. That the Board of Directors of the Education Foundation give priority to the revision of the manual for chapter Directors of Educational Activities and Scholarship Committees. III. That the General Organization sponsor annually an essay contest devoted to the convention theme. IV. That the Chapters of the Fraternity be urged individually to develop projects related to the needs of their communities and to make formal proposals for which the Foundation can seek or give financial support. V. That in view of the tremendous economic and political power inherent in the membership of the eight nation fraternities and sororities and the increasing need among black people to close ranks in our struggle for dignity, respect and full participation in the life of this country, that the Board of Directors of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated be urged to take the lead in inviting Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity and Zeta Phi Beta Sorority to hold their 1970 national conventions at the same time and at the same site as the General Convention of this Fraternity for the purpose of promoting unity among the black people of this country.
CONVENTION
PANEL: DEVELOPMENT IN THE ARTS Whereas: The evidence shows that the contribution of blacks in every field of art has been submerged. Whereas: The need for full participation in the main stream is more evident than ever before, particularly in the arts. Whereas: Alpha Phi Alpha is determined to use its influence, talents, prestige and finances to advance the cause of the black man until America recognizes his contribution in the Arts. Be it resolved: I. APA chapters shall join in geographical areas to create art encampments on college campuses for the purpose of exploring the total creative aspect of America's development. II. APA shall take the leadership in recording the Black Man's heritage in all of the Arts. (a) Conference shall be held annually on Black History (b) APA shall establish the logistics and system for disseminating the creations of Black Artists. III. APA shall give aid, wherever needed, in encouraging further development of Black artists of all fields. IV. Major emphasis shall be placed in the coming year on getting Black people into the policy-making and administrative areas of Art, Theatre, Drama and Music. V. APA shall develop a consistent continuing program through all its chapters to bring pressure on Artisan unions to break every barrier existant against Blacks — carpenters, plumbers, electricians, cameramen, technicians — of very trade. VI. The President shall be empowered to commission a task force of brothers, selected from each region, to implement these resolutions.
PANEL: ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT I. That there be established an Alpha Phi Alpha Economic Development Corporation. II. That such Alpha Phi Alpha Economic Development Corporation be mandated by this Convention to be so structured as to significantly participate in the economic development shall include, but not be limited to, the building of homes under the various and existing governmental and private foundation programs; the development of commercial and industrial enterprises and areas; the discovery, use and encouragement of black capitalism; and the training and placement of black professionals and skilled artisans. HI. That sufficient funds be made available to employ a director of such Alpha Phi Alpha Development Corporation and that such director be charged to structure said Corporation with Board approval. 11
ALPHA'S ANNUAL JOB CONFERENCE
Tax Collector of San Francisco
Texas Southern University
BROTHER THAD BROWN
Employee recruiting tor business, government and industry was one of the high points of the Alpha Phi Alpha National Convention held in Houston, Texas. The fraternity sponsored a Job Interview Day at Texas Southern University. During the day, Alphamen representing almost fifty employers interviewed more than two hundred job seekers in the Houston area. Brother Elva K. Steward, Career Counseling and Placement Service Director at TSU, was Local Coordinator for the project.
Brother Martin O. Chapman of Firestone Tire and Rubber Company, center, shares his company's recruiting brochure with (from left) Brother L. H. Stanton, Coordinator of the Job Interviews program for the Convention; Brother Lavatus Powell, Proctor and Gamble Company; Brother Elva K. Steward; and Brother John Devine of Johnson and Johnson. 12
Brother Thad Brown, Administrative Analyst to the Chief Administrative Officer, came out on top in a field that had narrowed to ten candidates for the position of Tax Collector or Registrar of Voters of San Francisco. He worked in the Assessor's Office as a field auditor in the Personal Property Division for seven years. In 1965, he started work in the Health Department as the Administrative Assistant to the Program Chief of Community Mental Health Services. In 1968, he came to work as the Administrative Analyst to the City's Chief Administrative Officer, Thomas J. Mellon. While working in the Chief Administrative Officer's Office, he was given a temporary assignment as the Acting Business Manager of the California Academy of Sciences. He was asked to stay on there as their permanent Business Manager at a significant increase in salary, but he chose to stay with City government. Brother Brown has a long and distinguished record of volunteer service with many community organizations in San Francisco, having served on the Board of Directors of the NAACP, the Geneva Terrace Property Owners Association and the Church for the Fellowship of All Peoples, the interracial Church founded by Dr. Howard Thurman and the late Dr. Alfred Fisk. Brother Brown started with City government as a clerk in the Recorder's Office after graduating from San Francisco State College where he obtained a degree in Economics with a minor in Business Administration. He also holds a Master's degree in Public Administration from Golden Gate College which he received in 1965.
SPECIAL THANKS . . . . To America's top industries and businesses who joined our recruitment the search for an equal opportunity of Blacks in the complete development of America.
program in
WHEREAS, the 63rd Anniversary Convention having been called to meet by the President in Houston, Texas. August 2-7, 1969, at the Shamrock-Hilton Hotel. WHEREAS, pursuant to said call the and visitors in Convention have enjoyed hospitality extended to the Convention by Alpha Eta Lambda and Delta Theta, of Fraternity, Inc.,
officers, delegates and accepted the the host chapters: Alpha Phi Alpha
WHEREAS, the people of the city of Houston, the press, radio and TV have graciously contributed to the success of our convention. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the 63rd Anniversary Convention of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., in recognition of unusual accommodation and hospitality extended to the Brothers, — we hereby express and extend our appreciation to the following: 1. For serving as such gracious, understanding and cooperative hosts, we thank Alpha Eta Lambda Chapter Delta Theta Chapter Gamma Eta Lambda Chapter Alpha Sigma Lambda Chapter Gamma Pi Lambda Chapter Beta Tau Lambda Chapter Epsilon Alpha Lambda Chapter and, Alphabetts 2. For their contributions to our entertainment, we thank Texas Southern University J. J. Thoads Elementary School Anheuser Busch, Inc. Falstaff Beer Company The Coca Cola Company The Pepsi Cola Company The National Rums of Puerto Rico The Seven Up Company Diamond R. Ranch Dowling Animal Clinic Humble Oil Company Gulf Oil Company The Continental Baking Company Smirnoff Vodka of Heublin, Inc.
COILEGE SENIORS
RECENT
GRADUATES
GRADUATES
Proctor & Gamble, Cincinnati, Ohio Montgomery, Ward Company Humble Oil & Refining C o . , Houston. Texas B. F . Goodrich T i r e & Rubber Co., Alfron, Ohio Lockheed Electronics Company, Plainfield. N . J . The Quaker Oats Company, Chicago, Illinois Allstate Insurance C o . , Detroit. Mich. Gulf Oil Corporation. Pittsburg. Pa. National Institute of Health American Oil Company. Southfield. Mich. General Mills. Minneapolis, Minn. Atlantic Richfield Company. Philadelphia, Pa. National Cash Register, Dayton, Ohio Mobil Oil Co., New York. N.Y, International Business Machines, Armonk, N.Y. Firestone T i r e & Rubber C o . , Akron, Ohio Chrysler Corporation, Detroit, Mich. International Agency for Development, Washington , D . C . Sears Roebuck Company, Chicago, Illinois Bordens. New York, N . Y . McGraw-Hill, I n c . , New York, N . Y . Xerox Corporation. Rochester, N . Y . General Foods Corporation. White Plains, N . Y . General Aniline & Film Corporation. N . Y . , N.Y. Ford Motor Company, Detroit, Mich. Olln Trans World Airlines (TWA), New York, N . Y .
Bristol-Myers Company, New York, N . Y . Johnson & Johnson American Airlines. N . Y . Metropolitan Life Insurance C o . . N . Y . The Gillette Co., .Boston, M a s s . Lockheed Aircraft. Marietta, Ga. Pratt & Whitney Aircraft, East Hartford. Conn. Caterpiller T r a c t o r Co.. E. Peoria, III. Eastman Kodak C o . . Rochester. N . Y . Aetna Life & Casualty C o . , Hartford, Conn. Anheuser Busch C o . , St. Louis, Mo. National Distillers C o . , New York, N.Y. R. J. Reynolds C o . . Winston-Saiem, N . C . The Coca Cola, C o . . Atlanta, Ga. Union Carbide C o . , New York. N . Y . Corning Glass C o . , Corning, N . Y . J. C. Penny C o . . New York. N . Y . Prudential Life Ins. C o . . Newark. N . J . F . W. Woolworth C o . , New York. N . Y . Carnation C o . , Los Angeles, Calif. Control Data C o . , Minneapolis, Minn. Phtlco-Ford Co., Philadelphia. Pa. The Pepsi-Cola C o . , New York. N . Y . T . Winston Burnett Construction C o . , N . Y . Armco Steel C o r p . , Middletown. Ohio Northern Natural Gas Co. P. Lorrillard Tobacco C o . . New Y o r k . N . Y .
?. For the News coverage of our convention, we thank The Forward Time Houston Informer Houston Chronicle Houston Post K P R C TV A. We particularly thank Brother A. C. Herald, Jr., Local Convention Chairman and the many committees that aided and assisted him in making this a great convention5. And to the many other organizations and individuals without whose help this Convention could not have succeeded, we thank you.
Recruiters from some of America's top industries came to Houston. The search for talent was fruitful as shown in the above photograph.
13
THE
IN-CROWDn
Gaiety of the formal bewildered this infant (photo center row, right) peeping at the "in-crowd," which included Brother Frankie Dee, Brother Luke Chatman, Brother and Mrs. Henry H. Brown, Brother and Mrs. Marcus Neustadter, Brother Jerry L. Martin, Brother Emmett Bashful, Brother A. C. Herald, Jr., Convention Chairman, and Past General Presidents Brother Lawson and Brother Smith.
CONVENTION HAPPENINGS! Brother William Paris talks to the Afro coiffured lass; Brother Jack Terry posed with a local hostess; Brother Arnold Wright discussed art with famed Black artist Eugene White, while Mrs. White exhibits his works of art; Brother James Harrison enjoys barbecue with the gang at the Diamond R. Ranch; Alpha youngsters enjoyed tun tor teens; and the generation gap had fun at the Bar Ranch. That's part of life at an Alpha Convention.
CONVENTION
DOINGS
HOUSTON, TEXAS
Mrs. Inez Kaiser (extreme right standing), representing the 7-Up Company, sponsored several affairs for the ladies of Alpha.
Pool side at the Shamrock Hilton—Brother Turner Goodlow of Houston entertained Miss Joy Ann Tobin, the famed soulful song stylist and guests.
During the Recruiters Luncheon, Past General President Myles Paige talks about past conventions with Brothers Andrew J. Lewis II of Atlanta, R. Allan Durrani of Philadelphia, W. D. Hawkins, Jr. of Nashville, while the other brothers asked, "Were other conventions as relevant as this one?" 16
All in fun, but an undergraduate brother said, "I didn't fall in the pool, some one pushed me."
TIMEOUT FOR REPAST... Morning, Noon and Night - Grads, Undergrads and Guests
LOADS OF FUN FOR LADIES OF ALPHA
MODELS!
PRIZES! FASHIONS!
FUN!
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Staff Executive for Minority Management Resources
Brother Morris DeLisser
Bro. Morris DeLisser, for many years life membership secretary of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, has joined CBS as Staff Executive for Minority Management Resources in the company's Management Resources Department under Clifford J. Benfield, Director. His duties will include executive placement, management development and manpower planning as they relate to minority group personnel. Bro. DeLisser most recently was a co-director of the Cooperative College Development Program of the Phelps Stokes Fund, enlisting support and helping to maintain faculty strength for black colleges and universities throughout the United States. He attended Lincoln University, the University of Hawaii and the City College of New York, and earned his B.A. degree at the City College. The position to which Bro. DeLisser has been named at CBS is a new one, reflecting both past and anticipated future growth in minority executive employment at the company. Bro. DeLisser, a native of New Rochelle, N. Y., served with the U. S. Army in the Pacific in World War II, was a member of the sales staff of Liggett and Myers for ten years and was on the staff of Ebony magazine. He is married and lives in New York City. He is a member of Alpha Phi Alpha, a Prince Hall Mason and a member of the board of directors of Neighborhood House, a Manhattan West Side settlement house.
Iota Spotlights, 1969-70
Brother Wins Study Abroad Grant
Morris Brown College Atlanta The theme for the coming year of Iota Chapter ,Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. shall be "FIRST OF ALL." We, as brothers of AoA, plan to be nothing but first in all activities. We are co-sponsors of Freshman Orientation and are making plans for a Fraternity Plot on campus. It should also be noted that the brothers have sacrificed their time this past summer to continue to have fraternal meeting to make sure that when school starts everything will be planned in advance. IOTA ROLL CALL Carter, John, Thomaston, Ga., Social Studies, President of Thomaston Progressive Club, Chairman of Freshman Orientation, President of Iota Chapter. Cooper, James, Savannah, Ga., Religion and Philosophy, Baseball. Fouch, Larry, Hartwell, Ga., Special Education, Baseball. Hopkins, George, Oca la, Florida, Mathematics, President of Freshman and Sophomore Classes, Staff-Project Upward Bound. Jenkins, Jack, Savannah, Ga., Psychology, President of College Choir. Jefferson, Rudolph, Bartow, Florida, Economics, Staff-Atlanta's Urban Corps. Miller, David, Sheboygan, Wisconsin, Spanish, Choir. Williamson, Clarence, Columbus, Ga., Management, Band. Wyche, Ephraim, Barnesville, Ga., Business Administration, Basketball and Baseball. FACULTY BROTHERS Bro. John A. Middleton, President of College Bro. James H. Penn, Chairman, Division of Science Bro. Cleopas Johnson, Band Director Bro. Eugene Craig, Ass't. Librarian Bro. Judge Rowley, Dept. of Education Bro. Tony Swinton, Dept. of History Bro. Charles Price, Ass't Academic Dean Bro. Melvin Thomas, Dept. of French Bro. Vernon Jackson, Dept. of French Bro. Robert Drake, Depart, of Business Administration MISS ALPHA PHI ALPHA, JoAnn Shephard, Senior Sociology Major from Atlanta, Georgia. She is a member of the Sociology Club.
Brother
George B. Hopkins
Brother George B. Hopkins of Iota Chapter, Morris Brown College, Atlanta, Ga. has been awarded a scholarship grant to participate in the Whittier College in Copenhagen Program. This program is now in process and is under the auspices of Whittier College, Whittier, California. The Institute of International Education in New York City made the selections. Brother Hopkins is a Junior majoring in Mathematics and minoring in Chemistry. He served as President of his Freshman and Sophomore Classes at Morris Brown. He also worked as a Program Assistant in Mathematics for Project Upward Bound. Brother Hopkins hails from Ocala, Florida where his parents, Mr. and Mrs. George Hopkins reside.
MISS ALPHA SWEETHEART, Carol Simmons, Senior Mathematics Major from Brunswick, Georgia. Carol is active in campus activities and is President of Gamma Chapter of AKA. MISS SPHINX, Shirley Yeargin, Sophomore Art Major from Greenville, South Carolina. "FIRST O F ALL" John Carter, President George Hopkins, Editor-to-the-Sphinx 19
A CITATION TO BROTHER BEN WRIGHT
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Ben receives congratulations from the Editor graciously accepting a joke about his tears.
of the SPHINX,
Presentation Address by Brother Ramon S. Scruggs Alpha's Job Opportunities Committee will pay tribute to Benjamin Hickman Wright and the Clairol Company, along with it's parent Company, Bristol-Myers. This tribute will be expressed by a plaque presented to Brother Wright with his unselfish and dedicated pursuit of the sense of worth and self-respect of Black Americans. I went on to say that factors leading to this acknowledgement of high esteem dates back to 1964 when our Brother Benjamin Hickman Wright followed through along with two others of us and established the first in a series of employment seminars as past of our convention activities. We obviously are proud of our Brother Wright for his action and thinking for the good of all Americans. Additionally, we have also seen strong evidence of Clairol's and Bristol-Myers' resolve to bring into new areas of thinking and action as reflected in recent speeches of Mr. Bruce Gelb on the "Power of Black Thinking" and Mr. Lawrence Gelb on "A New Way of Listening." I hold in my hand copies of those speeches which are available to you and I would suggest your securing a copy. I went on to say to Mr. McBaine, for no company or institution in America is doing all that it could, and soon must do the outstanding efforts and unique procpectives on the urban crisis of your involved subsidiary company. My company, I said to Mr. McBaine, A T & T, is the only other company which has received a similar award from our fraternity. This is not an annual award. Thus, as co-chairman of our major job opportunity effort, I am most pleased to make this annuouncement and will invite you and the president of Clairol to be honored luncheon guests as we recognize Galvin McBaine, Brother Benjamin Wright and his Corporation for that business the equitable employment opportunities and their support of many endeavors leading toward the dignity and full development of Black America. I can point out to these brothers that Benjamin Hickman Wright or Clairol, Inc. and Bristol-Myers worked together to achieve new forms of equit20
i e s , they are TWINS . who is the oldest."
. Nathan and Ben Wright "never admit
able consideration in employment and support for many endeavors leading to the employment of Black Americans with a deserved sense of dignity and self-respect by the Equitable Employment Opportunities Committee of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. August 4, 1969. Raymon Scruggs, Chairman, Ernest Morial, Esquire, National President. Ben .congratulations to you and I want to say to you at this time ,keep on being Ben Wright.
A Message to Leading Industries . . .
BEN WRIGHT. A BLACK M A N AT BRISTOL-MYERS" . . . BRUCE GELB, President of Bristol-Myers
Mr. Bruce Gelb catches the eyes of the television cameras and intense listeners when he addressed the audience at the Job Recruiters Luncheon during the 63rd Annual Convention.
"I am sure you will be delighted to know that I am not going to be giving a speech today. I only gave it once and I don't think I could ever think of giving it again because it tends to result in a rather emotional experience I had about a year and a half ago walking in the streets of some of the more unfortunate parts of New York City. First of all, I would like to thank the members of the grgoup for giving me the opportunity to say what 1 know about Ben Wright or what Ben has in his heart this morning. He is a man who combines that wonderful combination of getting things done and feeling deeply about what you are doing. I would also like to express my thanks to the members of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity for giving me. just this brief moment to say just a few words which I think are important. T would like to thank Mr. Scruggs for the plain words that he said about Bristol-Myers and Clairol. What little we have done as a company, very frankly, is just the beginning as far as I am concerned. Until every American business, every American labor union, every American political organization, starts to really benefit from the creative positive power of Black people, the job won't be done. This is in power to contribute real faith and it is the opportunity to contribute to the full of an individual's talent and to reap the flow of the water that is due that individual for that contribution. Now, obviously, Bristol-Myers and Clairol are very proud of this moment for Ben Wright. And very frankly, we are a lot prouder of the fact that we can consider him one of the important members of our organization. He has done a lot for us; he has done a lot to teach us and he has helped us to do things. As an example, just one example, of the kinds of things that Ben has been able to do for us, — he has
taught us how to listen in a different way to the problems and to the voice of the Black community. And he has helped to point out to us the kinds of responsibility that we have as a company toward solving these problems. Anyone who has worked with Ben as long as I have could list on an endless list the kinds of things that make us proud about Ben Wright. I am going to take three; that's a nice handy number and it is one that the people think is important. Three things that I think are the major specific contributions of Ben Wright. First, because we are a business, we are not a charitable institution, we have to make a profit; because if you can't be profitable, you can"t do anything except barely stay alive. We are probitable. His first contribution is that he brings to the job judgment, drive, and energy; and because of the job that he does within the company, we are a more profitable organization. Secondly, this is a rather unusual kind of contribution. He has made it possible for many executives of our company, many people throughout the company to have an opportunity to get to know the leadership of the Black community. Not just one spectrum of that leadership, but many different points of view, many different people. I think the most important fact that comes out of that kind of exposure—and we all see it very clearly because we have had time to think about it, we have had time to listen. All of these reasons that may differ somewhat from the way they wear their clothes—when they have a Dashiki on one day and they may have a pin-striped grey tight suit on the next. Whether they have a difference in their technique of leadership or whether they have just a marginal difference of some detail in the way they talk about being a leader. They have all made it very clear to us that almost every Black American in this country agrees in a very happy, wonderful way. They have a legitimate and unified desire for respect, for equity, and for positive power in this country." (Continued on page 37)
Bro. Ben Wright with an humble gesture receives the Irom Brother Ramon S. Scruggs.
citation
21
BROTHER JAMES A. HARRIS, Nuclear Chemist Black Power: A Creative Force in Americas Complete Development The Golfer
The Chemist
Intense interest is shown on his face while electroplating fornium into beryllium-palladium.
cali-
....
Brother Jim Harris checks his score card during the Golf Tournament at the Houston convention.
Positive Identification of Isotopes Nuclear Chemist, Brother James A. Harris, is a member of the team of scientists at the University of California Lawrence Radiation Laboratory, Berkeley, that reported the positive identification of two isotopes of element 104, a man-made element that does not exist in nature. Brother Harris prepared the target (composed of two millionths of an ounce of another man-made element, californium-249) that was bombarded in the Berkeley atom-smasher, the Heavy Ion L i n e a r Accelerator (HILAC). Brother Harris was given the job of turning the tiny quantity of material, which looks like lead, into a suitable target. One of his achievements was to reduce the impurities significantly by repeated, painstaking processing of the material. Another was to deposit the material evenly into a small area, about three-sixteenths of an inch in diameter. So small was the amount of the material that it had to be concentrated to give it thickness to increase 2:
the chance of reactions occurring. At the same time it had to have chemical qualities that enable it to withstand the heat and mechanical disturbance of the bombarding particles. He is shown working with the apparatus he used to electroplate the californium onto a thin beryllium-palladium foil. Prior to this operation, Harris put the target material through lengthy and painstaking chemical processes to eliminate impurities. The final target was described by the leader of the team, Nuclear scientist Albert Ghiorso, a veteran of 25 ears of element hunting, as "the best target we ever had." The research was supported by the U.S. Atomic Energy Commission. Brother Harris is a very active member of Gamma Chi Lambda chapter, Alpha Phi Alpha is proud, very proud of Jim's contribution — it's CREATIVE BLACK POWER . . .
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NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS Left: Brother A. Maceo Smith, Chairman of National Committee, Brother Levin C. Weiss, General Treasurer, Brother James L. Hunt, Architect and Past General President Brother Lionel H. Newsome approve plans for renovation. Board of Trustees Meeting Room. Right photos (down) Membership Clerk's Office, Reproduction Room and Membership File.
ALPHA GARDENS - St. Louis, Mo.
Brother William M. Alexander, National Alpha Phi Alpha Housing Chairman, presents the keys of the Alpha Gardens Housing Development to Brother Morris M. Hatchett, of Alpha House, Inc. Brother John D. Buckner laughed and stated that Brother Hatchett's income excludes his tenancy. Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Williams and family received the first keys from Brother Hatchett. Officials of the Building Foundation and consultants are shown in the lower photograph.
26
OL Story of... ST. LOUIS ALPHA GARDENS St. Louis' Alpha Gardens is a different concept in housing. The thrus is aimed at alleviating housing problems of people in the moderate to upper income levels. Hundreds of St. Louisans flocked to the west end of the city, Sunday, June 1st, to witness the brief but impressive ceremonies dedicating the multi-million dollar, 145 apartment unit. The fruition of energetic plans undertaken through the Epsilon Lambda Chapter, APA, by its "legal business arm," the Alpha Housing Foundation, Inc., was significant to the city in many respects. The response has been astounding. It was necessary to turn down over 1100 qualified applicants. Already the Fraternity is adopting energetic plans to construct two additional developments aimed at further eliminating housing shortages for people in the moderate to upper income level. In the actual dedicatory ceremonies, Arthur E. Klein, housing consultant to Alpha Gardens (representing the builders) presented the "keys" to Brother William M. Alexander of St. Louis who is National Housing Chairman and who has been properly credited with being the moving force behind the far-sighted development. After brief remarks, the keys were then presented to Attorney Morris Hatchett, Board Chairman of Alpha Housing, Incorporated. Brother Hatchett then made a symbolic presentation to Mr. Roland Williams who accepted in behalf of the then almost 120 residents of the 145 house unit. Construction was ahead of schedule and no time was lost due to strikes, weather, etc. The development is now filled to capacity. The actual ribbon cutting ceremony was performed by Brother Rudolph Walker, Epsilon Lambda President. In attendance were the following members of the National Alpha Phi Alpha Building oundation: Meredith D. Ferguson of Nashville, Tennessee; General Secretary, Laurence T. Young of Chicago, Illinois; Treasurer, Leven Weiss, Detroit, Michigan; Assistant Secretary, William Decker Clark, Norwalk, Connecticut; Directors, James L. Hunt of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Frank E. Lewis, Norman, Alabama, and Dr. Edward H. Ballard, South Pasadena, California. The National President of Alpha, the Honorable Ernest M. Morial (New Or-
leans, Louisiana) was unable to attend because of illness. An impressive motorcade was held throughout the western part of St. Louis. It preceded the actual dedicatorial ceremonies and was marked by scores of gaily decorated automobiles. The residential and development project is the first one completed in the West End Urban Renewal area, an area undergoing massive redevelopment. Its actual construction is significant in another manner. It represents the first major breakthrough in racial discrimination in the trade unions here. The Fraternity insisted that builders and ancillary developers, both major and minor, give positive proof of integrated work units before signing the contract. It is significant, therefore, that, for the first time, a major project of this sort was built with prime input by black plumbers, laborers, electricians, etc. Another development was the fact that the Fraternity insisted that black insurance agents handle the tranactions and that the monies be deposited in the black owned bank (Gateway National Bank). Black men worked side by side with their white contemporaries with no friction or union jurisdiction. All these things were accomplished. A significant portion of the money expended for construction, etc., fell into black hands which meant better family income for the necessities of life. This is a marked departure from the usual custom and practices. Alpha Gardens development is significant in another manner. Never before in the history of this nation has a social organization such as Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc., the enigma so existed that an affluent, educated, and articulate society having once diagnosed their own socio-economic ills did they then proceed to move forthright in resolving these ills. The Alpha Gardens, located on the northern boundaries of the City of St. Louis and the City of Wellston of St. Louis County and situated on some 285,733 square feet specifically bounded by Page Boulevard on the North, Etzel Avenue on the South, Hodiamont on the East, and the new Skinker Parkway on the West, is the shining example of what transpires when Alpha men put their collective minds, energies and talents together.
The development is composed of 10 one-bedroom units (four rooms) with a rental of $79 per month, 60 two-bedroom units (five rooms) at $91 per month, 60 three-bodroom units (six rooms) at $103 per month and 15 fourbedroom units (seven rooms) at $115 per month. The monthly rentals include kitchen appliances, parking and maintenance. Two stores, a management office and community recreation area are included in the development for the convenience of the residents. The total development costs, including constructions, land sight improvement, financing charges, taxes, insurance, FHA and professional fees is $2,162,900. It represents the entire cost for which a mortgage commitment in the like amount has been issued by the Federal Housing Administration. The ability to receive 100% financing came through the intense professional skills given to the preparation of the required aspects as completed by a technical team headed by Mr. Klein. Construction was tarted approximately 1 year before its dedication. Actual ground breaking occurred on May 20, 1968. Men who make up the Alpha House of St. Louis, Incorporated, Board of Directors are, besides Attorney Hatchett: Brother Shelby T. Freeman, Jr., VicePresident; Brother Rudolph Walker, Secretary; Brother Joseph C. Gunnell, Sr.; Assistant Secretary, Brother John D. Buckner;; Treasurer, Brother E. Keith Picket; Assistant Treasurer; and, Attorney Brother Joseph F. McDuffie, Registered Agent; Brother Lamar F. Smith and Brother William E. Douthit. The group received counsel and cooperation from the Alpha Phi Alpha B u i l d i n g Foundation, Incorporated, headed by Brother William M. Alexander and whose membership also includes Brother Frank E. Lewis, in addition to the gentlemen mentioned elsewhere. In addition, the following advisory consultants were instrumental in the project: Brother Horace J. Rodgers, Brother Lionel H.Newsom and Brother A. Maceo Smith. At the June 1st dedicatorial services, the Reverend John M. Doggett, Pastor of one of St. Louis' largest churches, Union Memorial Methodist Church, offered the benediction and Brother John D. Buckner presided. 27
A NEW CHAPTER
University of Arizona
Public Works Man of the Year DEPUTY COMMISSIONER OF PUBLIC WORKS, TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, NEW YORK
Brother William D. Phears
Zeta Theta initiates flanked by advisors. Brother Herbert E. Olivera, extreme left and Brother Felix Goodwin, Lieut. Col., extreme right.
ZETA THETA CHAPTER . . . An undergraduate chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. was started at the University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona this Spring. The new chapter, Zeta Theta, initiated eight members, under the direction and guidance of the brothers of Eta Psi Lambda Chapter. The members are: Otis Comeaux, Oakland, California; Willie Counts, Tucson, Richard Davis, Tucson, Mathew Giles, Aliquippa, Pennsylvania; Melvin Home, Pistansy, New Jersey; Brad Hubbard, Jerry Powell, San Diego, California; and Edward Thompson, Tucson. The faculty adviser is Lieutenant Colonel Goodwin, R. O. T. C. faculty and assisted by Herbert E. Olivera, Accounting Graduate AssociateEta Psi Lambda chapter initiated two new members. They are Ronald Welburn, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, graduate associate in Creative Writing, and a graduate of Lincoln University (Pa.), and Chance Williams, News Editor of K U A T Radio and T.V., and a member of the Radio, Television and Journalism faculty. Ronald Welburn initiated a course of study in Afro-American literature. Chance Williams holds a nightly news program and features a weekly program "Omnibus," a public affairs program. The ten neophytes have dedicated themselves towards a program of education and social progress for Black americans and all americans. These brothers have worked for some time on an intensive tutorial program among the black community of the City of Tucson. May 3, 1969, these undergraduates held a successful Black Orpheus Ball and raised money for a scholarship for one student black freshman. These young men have great plans for the Desert University and the great southwest. 28
A native of Michigan and educated at the Detroit Institute of Technology with a major in architectural engineering, Brother William D. Phears entered the U. S. Air Force in 1943 after several years as a private contractor. During twenty years of service as an officer in the USAF he completed his collegiate work and received the B.S. in engineering from the University of Maryland, M.S. from Long Island University, also attending such service schools as the Air Force Institute of Technology and the Command and Staff School. Brother Phears had long experience as an administrative officer with the Air Force, including such assignments as Base Civil Engineer and Squadron Commander, 1956-59, and Deputy Regional Civil Engineer, 1959-64. Brother Phears assumed his present position in October 1966, and has made outstanding contributions to the development of the Hempstead Public Works Department which had been established only ten months previously. As Deputy Commissioner he is in charge of the Administration Division, responsible for all of the management functions for the department, which has six divisions and over 1,000 employees. His specific responsibilities include management, public bidding, personnel, central files, safety, communications, statistics, community relations, building maintenance, document reproduction, accounting and budget. (Continued on page 30)
Frat Fun.. with winters DR. O. WILSON WINTERS, Editor
The Dimensions of Chronology T H E DIMENSIONS O F CHRONOLOGY Now it came to pass that it was time for Alpha Phi Alpha to observe its 63rd Anniversary in a General Convention. And they asked: "But who is to lead us that we may surpass all of the other upstart fraternities. And where shall we meet." Lo, it had beeu decreed that a charismatic Louisianan, one Ernest from the House of Morial should spend six August days under the tents of ye Shramrock Hilton, fully insulated from the 120 degree heat of Houston, Texas. It was Sunday, the second day of August., ye Ernest lifted the presidential scepter and there folloed the usual fraternal round-e-lay-registration, committee meetings, Bait-a-date soiree, and a Texas Barbecue. The gods decreed there should be a conclave large, active and pregnant with memorable events. One recorded event was the failure of the desk clerk to get the name of the couple he sent to a room on the fifth floor. Since they had just gone out of the hotel, the bright bell boy went up to the room hoping to find the name on the luggage. He returned and proudly informed the clerk that the couple were named "Mr. and Mrs. Cowhide." There was the usual Life Membership Breakfast shephered by the inimitable John Buckner. Mrs. Winters' son, O. Wilson, being Life Member No. 1, was importuned to say something about himself. Although he was made No. 1 in New Orleans 1937, the accumulated years bringing a mantle of senior citizenship do not make him realize his aged stature. He declared his interest in all the usual activities of life. He still likes dancing, skating and other vignettes. He admitted his indugences not as often, as long, or as proficient as formerly. He respects and admires Brother Buckner, noting his finesse and progressive development of the Life Membership idea. Buckner is thoughtful and cavalier. It is written that he once, while riding on a bus, arose and gave his seat to three old ladies. No. 1 brought out that it was only in Alpha that he was No. 1. His life was one of continuing "seconds" — second son, recipient of second hand clothes, consigned to the second table set up, sent to the second floor balcony, saddled with a second hand auto, delegated to arise and second the motion, and at the midnight motel room party the girl who said yes, on second thought changed her mind. His second responses are generally better than his first. Even at church, standing in line to greet his pastor at the parting hand shakes, when the minister asked "How's your wife?" Absentmindly, he replied, "Compared to whom?" At Detroit in 1968, the Oracle said to go to Houston and there shall be oratorical profundity and perspicuity galore.
CHAPTER PROJECT... Next Issue Raise Chapter Funds by Sales of Black Books
And there was aided and abetted by the ubiquitous convention percursor, one Kermit, scion of the Hall family. Featured gems were from Theodore, the Berry; Nathan, the Wright. Belford, the Lawson; each enunciating words of fraternal philosophical and sociological wisdom. Listen to excerpts — "Self hate is the bane of Negro life. He does not even know that he hates himself." "Black separatism is statutory rape." "Something cannot coalesce with nothing." Prexy Morial declared that Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes said, "We should share in the action and passion of our times or being judged as not having lived." He asked the assembly, "are you willing to share in the action and passion of these coming convention days that confront us." From the rear one waggish brother said, "yes sir, I've already shared in the action but I've discovered that I need a little more passion." One speaker said, "what a thing will be, that it already is, whether a horse or a man." The Negro must not be content with a balcony existence. It represents a dramatic distance. Remember Lincoln sat in a balcony and that is where he was easily shot." I loved the Shamrock Hilton lobby. It was a lodestone for assorted homespun palaver. And the evening and the morning was the first day, the second, the third and on thru the convention. 'Twas there I communed with Bros. Julius Higgins and Raymond Hill from East St. Louis; venerable Charles Lunsford, the sage of Rochester, N . Y.; affable Philip Beach the New York medic; genial Dr. Charlie Broaddus. Personality exchanges were made with Brother C. W. Robinson and spouse from Kansas City. Periods of fraternal effervesence with Marcus Aurelius Newstadter as I repeated the story of the Genie. Indelible moments of wholesome repartee with Charlie Pope Hines, Arthur Roundtree, Dewey Curtis and his latest "interest," Brother Charles Ballou and Maude, Slizabeth City, North Carolina's gift to Alpha. I hope they remember or maybe the ecstasy was mine alone. Let me tell you what was told to me, because it is either funny or pithy or spicy. At least it is classified as Frat Fun. Look below. — How can I miss you when you won't go away. — Don't go away mad; just go away. — I don't know what I'd do without you, but I'd rather. — Yes she does have an hour glass figure, but most of the sand is in the upper part. — They say he's Chicago's favorite son — yes that's true and it's the most unfinished sentence I've heard. — It's not when you talk to yourself that people will believe you're nuts; it's when you begin to listen. (Continued on page 39) 29
VICTORY CELEBRATION
Theta Lambda Chapter Dayton, Ohio 45427 By Arthur L. Fox Associate Editor of Sphinx Theta Lambda Chapter climaxed its fraternal year at its annual Alpha Ball at the Lakeview Palladium June 13, 1969. More than 1,000 brothers and guests enjoyed an "Evening of Black Magic" paced by Buddy Webb and his renown orchestra. This gala event brought to a conclusion a year of many outstanding civic, humanitarian and social achievements provided by the chapter. The total contributions rendered by the brothers during this period warrants recognition of Theta Lambda as a contender for the most outstanding chapter in Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
Alphas gathered at the Victory Celebration following Alcorn A. & M. College decisive win over Grambling College 28-7 in the Freedom Classic held in the Coliseum in Los Angeles, California. Left to right: Bro. J. I. Hendricks, Jr., Director of Public Relations, Alcorn A. & M. College; Bro. Leroy Jeffries, Executive Vice-President Western Operations, Jet-Ebony Magazines; Bro. Walter Washington, President of Alcorn A. & M. College; Bro. John Mack, Executive Director of the Los Angeles Urban League.
Alphas at Johnson C. Smith University 12th Annual Public Relations Confab
Alphas in attendance at Johnson C. Smith University's 12th Annual Public Relations Conference are shown above. They are from left to right: Brother P. Bernard Young, Director of Public Relations, St. Paul's College; Brother E. S. Genial Gene Potts, Public Affairs Director ot Radio Station WGIV, Charlotte, N. C; Brother Granville Sawyer, President, Texas Southern University; Brother Harry Burney, Jr., Director of Development, Bethune-Cookman College; Brother Lionel H. Newsom, President, Johnson C. Smith University, Past General President; Brother Fontillio Nanton, Director of Public Information and Professor of Journalism, Vorhees College. Other Alphas present were: Brother Royal Puryear, President, Florida Memorial College; Brother George Owens, President. Tougaloo College. 30
June 29, 1968 the chapter presented "grants-in-aid" to two 1968 high school graduates. This annual award is provided to high school students based on need for financial assistance and acceptance by the college they plan to attend. The aim is to help and encourage students who otherwise might not be able to continue their education. A color television set was donated to the West Dayton Boys' Club. The set is for use in the lounge of the new building. BROTHER PHEARS (Continued from page 28) Brother Phears has instituted new systems, utilizing the IBM computer, for personnel, inventory, and construction progress records. New programs for the training and upgrading of personnel have been initiated, and document reproduction procedures have been completely revamped via new techniques which greatly reduce document storage requirements. In the field of community relations, he has been instrumental in the establishment of a more effective liaison with the public in America's most populous township, and is presently supervising the creation of visual presentations for explaining the role and activities of the Public Works Department. Awards and honors received by Brother Phears include two decorations by the USAF for outstanding performance, with special recognition for management and reducing costs, citations by Kiwanis, the PTA and Civic Association for community work, and a commendation by the French Government for engineering and construction achievements.
Brother Wilks Named
Brother Clement Elected President
to U. S. Labor Post
Connecticut Council of Churches The Reverend Harold A. L. Clement of New Haven is the new president of the Connecticut Council of Churches. He succeeds the Reverend Caryl Benson of Bridgeport, whose resignation because of ill health was accepted by the Council's Board of Directors, September 5. The Reverend Mr. Clement had been serving as First Vice President of the Council since November, 1968.
Brother Harold A. L. Clement
Brother
John L
Wilks
Brother John L. Wilks, who has been active in the field of human rights, has been appointed to the new position of Deputy Assistant Secretary of Labor for Compliance. In announcing the appointment, Secretary of Labor George P. Shultz, said Wilks, 45, will direct the Office of Federal Contract Compliance (OFCC). He begins his new duties immediately. OFCC is responsible for insuring equal employment opportunity among federal contractors and subcontractors as required under Executive Order 11246. Brother Wilks, who has operated his own San Francisco public relations firm for the past 11 years, reported directly to Arthur Fletcher, Assistant Secretary for Wage and Labor Standards. Operating his own public relations firm in the Bay Area, Brother Wilks rendered services to such diverse organizations as the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, Standard Oil of California, the San Francisco Foundation for Aged Colored Persons, the NAACP's special contribution fund, F. W. Woolworth Co., the Economic Opportunity Council of San Francisco, Chrysler, Warner Brothers, Safeway Stores, Inc., and the city of Oakland. In 1968, Brother Wilks established
the Executive Search Agency, a firm specializing in placing members of minority groups in executive-level positions. A native of Union, S. C , who grew up in Weirth, W. Va., Brother Wilks was merchandising manager for San Francisco Radio Station KSAN (now KSOL) in 1957-58. Before moving to the West Coast, he was a group worker at the Cooper Community Center in Boston's Roxbury section where he helped provide disadvantaged youths and adults with educational, social and recreational services. From 1949 to 1955, Brother Wilks was engaged in various types of sales work. After serving as an Army staff sergeant in the European and Pacific Theaters during World War II, he worked as a longshoreman in New York before entering college. He received a B.A. degree from West Virginia State in 1949 and an M.S. degree from Boston University in 1956. He also did post-graduate work at Harvard Univesrity in the summer of 1956. Brother Wilks was one of the Department of Labor representatives at the recent Chicago labor hearing. The hearing resulted in a positive approach for Chicago Blacks in the labor movement.
Brother Clement has been pastor of Varick Memorial A.M.E. Zion Church, New Haven, since 1964. He has been active in church and civic affairs in New Haven and a leading participant in civil rights activities in that area. He is a native of Providence, R.I. where he received his early education. He continued his education at Livingstone College, Hartford Seminary Foundation, Yale and Boston Universities. During a pastorate in San Francisco, California, Brother Clement was elected president of the Ministerial Alliance, the first American of African descent to become head of the ministers' fellowship of that west coast metropolis. He also served a term as vice president of the Northern California-Western Nevada Council of Churches. In New Haven, Brother Clement has served on Mayor Lee's Citizens' Advisory Committee for promoting equality of educational opportunity and dealing with the problems of racial imbalance. He is chairman of the Black Defense Fund Committee and Day Care Center of Elm Haven, President of the Dixwell Ministerial Alliance and First Vice President of the New Haven Council of Churches. He also serves on the boards of the Urban League of Greater New Haven and the Opportunities Industialization Center, and the Wider City Parish, National Foundation, March of Dimes, and Univesrity Park Community Council. He is the only Connecticut member of the Board of Directors of the National Committee of Black Churchmen, and also serves on the Foreign Mission Board of the A.M.E. Zion Church. Bishop S. G. Spottswood, while congratulating the clergyman said, he was only the 4th Black man in the U. S. to serve as President of a State Council. 31
Beta Theta Chapter Foundation For Community Development
GENERAL STATEMENT: The 63rd Anniversary Convention of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. — which is in fact the 55th General Convention, adjourned in a blaze of glory at Houston, Texas a few weeks ago. While this was not the largest Convention, it was certainly one of the outstanding Conventions in that it developed, with no uncertainty, the benefits to be derived from TEAMWORK, self help and self determination, — based on the theme enunciated by the Board of Directors: "Black Power — a Creative Force in America's Complete Development." This Convention gave a new meaning to the word CONVENTION, other than the one commonly accepted — to summon or convene an assembly, or an assembly meeting for a common purpose, — it meant to Alpha Phi Alpha the bringing together of great minds to share with our younger generations the fruits of labor of the older generations, — together keeping in mind the new approach now being activated by the younger generation. SPEAKERS: Review the array of speakers at the various sessions of the Convention, reflect on the messages they brought and be refreshed: Keynote address: — Brother Nathan Wright; Founders' Address, — Brother Belford V. Lawson, Jr., — Fraternal address — Brother Theodore M. Berry, Banquet address — Brother Charles H. Wesley .Seminar Luncheon Address — Brother William H. Brown, III, — Seminar addresses: Brother Herman Branson, Brother Wyatt Tee Walker and Brother Lionel H Newsom. We shall not soon forget the message of Senator Barbara Jordan, the first black woman to serve in the Texas Senate, and the first Black to sit there since 1883, and the first Black to chair a Senate committee and preside over the senate. PUBLIC POLICY: Alpha Phi Alpha's public policy statement this year is again being duly circulated to those within and without the Fraternity. This statement this year has this preface: "Almost every statement of public policy since the beginning of the Fraternity has been an announcement that we are not only advocates of the proper use of BLACK POWER to win full citizenship in America, but WE ARE BLACK POWER. Year after year we have pledged ourselves to an integrated society and have sought separatism only to strengthen our forces to become an integral part of the mainstream of every phase, economic, social and political, — of American Life. Alpha Phi Alpha is well aware, and quite concerned over the "black revolution." We realize that the contemporary use of the words "BLACK PEOPLE and AFRO AMERICAN" is the healthy outcome of a new awareness of our history, dignity, culture and ability to define ourselves as we should. We are determined to demand the benefits of our cultural background, consumer, political and economic power. To all brothers, who are actively participating in organizations the design of which is to bring about constructive freedom of BLACK PEOPLE, we commend you. Let it always be known that Alpha Phi Alpha feels that your struggle is our struggle. The same commitment that binds you to the principles of Alpha Phi Alpha surely must bind you and every brother of our Fraternity to the realization that freedom can only be obtained by our financial and physical participation in the struggles of BLACK PEOPLE." ATTENDANCE: Total Convention participation numbers 2,790, including the presence of five past General Presidents; 46 registered undergraduate deelgates; 292 registered graduate delegrates; 395 visiting registered brothers, 288 Alpha Wives; 211 Alpha Children; 66 Golf participants; 35 Alpha Hostesses and 30 Alpha Angles. STATISTICS: There were 25 chapters represented. Present committees; there were 1,050 and 350 in attendance at the 32
undergraduate chapters represented and 119 graduate were 14 General Officers, 8 Chairmen of standing persons in attendance at the Formal Alpha Banquet Public Meeting. (Continued on page 40)
The Foundation for Community Development is a Durham, North Carolina based Community Action Organization. A primary purpose of this entity is to create, initiate, maintain and extend projects which have as their aim the uplift of poor people, particularly Black people. The scope of this foundation's work and activities extend throughout the state of North Carolina. To implement its program, the Foundation for Community Development was able to obtain grants totaling $960,000.00 from the Office of Economic Opportunity and the Economic Development Administration, both headquarters in Washington, D. C. However, when the grants were announced in April 1969, a large cry was heard criticizing the entire proposal. The basis for the outcry was that the Foundation harbored black militants as its employees. Consequently, the allocation of the monies ($90,000.00) was delayed, stopped, etc. Beta Theta Lambda Chapter endorses the proposal and requests that the 63rd Anniversary Convention of Alpha Phi Alpha, Inc. join in support of this program. We ask that this convention direct the General President, Executive Secretary and General Counsel join in signing a letter addressed to the Honorable Richard M. Nixon, President, White House, Washington, D. C , and other interested and concerned parties expressing our organization's support of the proposed grant of $960,000.00. We further request that this action, if approved, be implemented immediately and in conjunction with the recorded acts of the 63rd Anniversary Convention of the Alpha Phi Alpha.
Alpha Man Advisor to White Fraternity Brother Israel F. Lee, a graduate student at Howard University, was appointed to a $10,500 job at Maryland University as staff advisor to the school's 44 all-white fraternities and sororities, not because he is black, according to officials, but because "he is a good man." He will work to get blacks included in Greek organizations on the College Park campus.
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The Role of the Vice-President in Undergraduate Housing by Brother Gus T. Ridgel Midwestern Vice-President The greatest demand for undergraduate chapter housing is among those chapters located at predominately white schools. Some institutions require that a chapter must occupy a fraternity house as a condition for being recognized as a bonafide organization by the university. Such houses usually can be owned or leased. A few institutions provide houses (e.g., Southern Illinois University) for Greek Letter Organizations. Some institutions own rental units that are available to organizations. However, on the majority of the campuses it is the responsibility of the organization to acquire housing from local owners. In my opinion, the Vice-President has an important role to play in assisting undergraduate chapters to secure adequate housing. He also serves as a liaison person between the chapter and the National Building Foundation. The preliminary investigation relative to the availability of housing should be conducted by the local chapter. Based on the proximity of the Regional Director, the local chapter should solicit his assistance during this exploratory stage. After potential houses have been identified, the chapter should contact the Vice-President. It is highly desirable for the Vice-President to visit the campus for the purpose of conferring with university officials, house owners, and Brothers in the chapter. He should be concerned with the following factors: a. Whether the house will meet all requirements and/or regulations of the university. b. To check the terms of the lease to ascertain if its terms are "fair." c. To determine if the chapter is economically capable of operating the house. 1. Type of telephone service. 2. Whether food service will be provided. 3. Adequate insurance coverage. 4. Election of House Manager. 5. Establishment of house rules and regulations. 6. Contractual arrangements between chapter and occupants of house.
7. Establishment of adequate bookkeeping system. 8. Appointment of a graduate advisor. The Role of the Vice-President in Undergraduate Housing Subsequent to this preliminary visit to the campus, the Vice-President may deem it advisable to request the Chairman of the Housing Foundation, or his representative, to accompany him on another visit to the campus for a further appraisal of the real estate. All contracts should be submitted to the General Counsel for his evaluation. At this point, the Vice-President should determine the nature and extent of the assistance desired from the Housing Foundation by the chapter. He should assist the chapter in preparing the Application to the Housing Foundation. The chapter should submit its Application to the Vice-President, who will forward it to the Housing Foundation with his recommendation. The Vice-President has a continuing responsibility, working with the chapter, Regional Director, graduate advisor, and university officials in assisting the chapter to assure that the housing operation is a success.
Joint Initiation Ceremonies in El Paso Theta Delta Lambda Theta Delta Lambda, El Paso, Texas, and Zeta Kappa, University of Texas at El Paso, conducted joint initiation ceremonies culminating in three candidates crossing the burning sands on 24 May, 1969. Zeta Kappa was organized during the Spring Semester, School Year 1967-68, and these were the first candidates to be initiated since its organization. With the assistance of an advisory committee consisting of Bro. Charlie L. Bush and other members of Theta Delta Lambda, Zeta Kappa led Bro. Jerry Waddles and Thomas Clardy across the burning sands to complete a highly successful initial year of activity on the UTEP campus. During the same ceremony, Theta Delta Lambda initiated Bro. Welborn Williams, Sr., into its fold. Following the initiation ceremony, members of both chapters adjourned to the Ramada Inn for breakfast and informal toasts and cheers to the neophytes.
ALPHAS IN THE ARMED SERVICES Many Alpha Brothers are stationed in Viet Nam and other countries abroad. If you are serving in Viet Nam or elsewhere, or know of an Alpha Brother who is, please send the following information to Editor of the SPHINX, 4728 Drexel Blvd., Chicago, 111. .60615. Photos and news items will also be appreciated. Serving in Viet Nam is:. Names
Serial number
Branch of service
Rank
Chapter
Military mailing address Submitted by: (your name/relationship) Address35
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR ... Dear Brother King: I would like to take this opportunity to commend you and your staff for your excellent work in writing and editing THE SPHINX. I particularly comend your attention and relevance to the topics of Blackness and the role of the Black student in our society ("Challenge of Black Power"; "Black Students Confrontation"; etc.). I, and many other Black students, can readily identify with the problems and challenges which must be met as young Blacks encountering the white "educational establishment" as an integral part of our collegiate lives. This past June I was graduated from Morgan State College in Baltimore, Maryland and have recently commenced graduate work toward a Ph.D. in psychology at Yale University. Consequently, the question of how to maintain a sense of Black identity while living in an essentially all white environment has taken on a newer and more personal meaning for me. I have found, however, that the answer to this question is a relatively simple one: "Be yourself." That is, be Black and remain congnizant of your Blackness while not letting this awareness confound your working relations with your white fellow students. Maintain any existing differences in life style or outlook on life rather than trying to minimize them and subsequently take on white personality characteristics. Revel in your difference, your Blackness, while still remaining aware of the fact that it is possible to work within the white institutionalized system (albeit better, perhaps, to strive to change it) without becoming inundated by it. For me, at least, this has been easy to do and my transition from an all Black educational situation into a predominantly white one has been accomplished with little difficulty. Once again, I would like to thank you and your staff for your diligence in presenting to us, the Brothers of Alpha, a very relevant and thoroughly readable magazine of which we can be proud. I am looking forward to receiving the next issue at my new address. Please find enclosed a completed change of address form. I remain Fraternally yours, Archie L. Williams Beta Alpha 36
Dear Brother: Once again I submit in request a composition dedicated to our late brother, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. I haven't been able to understand yet, why it was never used in our magazine the Sphinx. This is my third letter, and the third time I have submitted the enclosed poem. An article from Beta Kappa, or anything concerning our chapter have not been in the Sphinx in God knows when, if ever. I know in over a year we were somewhat hesistant, for we were trying to get the composition "Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr." in, and because of space value was hesistant in sending anything else. As Alpha, the entire Langston University Family, from President William Henri Hale to fellow colleagues have been close to this composition. It was the Alphas at Langston who created The Martin Luther King Scholarship Fund. It was with this composition, the Alphas launched a drive to raise money for the fund, and SCLC, which was a success, and the composition was just given to any contributor in our way of saying thank you for your contribution. I wrote "Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.," shortly after our brother's passing, (in 1968), it was also in this year that I sent the first copies to the Sphinx. Since that time over a year ago, two compositions have appeared in the Sphinx on King, and I wonder what priority did they have over mine. In the three times I've written, not once, ever have I gotten some kind of reply from any of the Sphinx staff. On April, May 3rd, I was presented by the Psi Phi Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Incorporated, as this year's recipient of The Melvin B. Tolson Award in Creative Writing. Mrs. Corretta King, wrote me and our chapter. Copies of "Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr." spread throughout the states, appearing in magazines such as, POETRY PAGEANT, T H E GAZETTE, SOUL ILLUSTRATED, and VIEWPOINT and others. This was all well. But what about my frat magazine, whom I wrote first, way back in '68, just a few days after writing the composition? Not only did I receive the creative
writing award, but a Grant to attend the Institute of Dramatic Arts in Playwriting. All of this is good, and the composition can appear on the front page of Life, if will, but I wanted it in my frat magazine, to the people I wrote to first, to my people, to my brothers, to the people I wrote a second and third time. The Kappas as did the Omegas and Sigmas praise it, a pledge of the Kappas use it in their vespers, that good, but what about my own frat. I'm sorry editors, brothers, but I just can't understand it. Please try to understand me, I am not bitter or anything like it, I am just with un-understanding, and I feel that I must write again, if to just get an understanding, perhaps you'll never put it in the Sphinx, but perhaps if I keep on writing, perhaps, I might for once get some kind of reply. Okay, I've raved about that a while, but please try to understand me, I simply can't take my composition thrown aside or in a basket without an explanaiton, or without seeing where and how I made the F. Now let me tell you some good news, that is always good to Alpha ears, especially when it's about us. I am pleased to report to you, that I am the new corresponding secretary of our Beta Kappa Chapter. That I (a Alpha) was elecetd by twenty colleges and universities as (the first black) State Editor of the Oklahoma Student Education Association, and that I (a Alpha) is the newly elected student body president of the Langston University Student Senate. Looking to hear from you Brother Rayfer Earl'e Mainor. (Editor's note: See poem, page 33)
Next Issue . . .
FOUNDERS EDITION... Dedicated to the
JEWELS
THIS POSITION IS OPENASSISTANT TO EXECUTIVE SECRETARY of ALPHA PHI ALPHA FRATERNITY
ALPHA MEN UNDER 3 0 . . . MAIL TODAY HERE IS AN EXCELLENT OPPORTUNITY! If You Want to Travel, Meet Important and Interesting People, Make a Good Salary, Complete this Application.
NAME:
-
ADDRESS: ZIP
CITY & STATE: DATE OF BIRTH:
-
COLLEGE:
DRAFT STATUS: DATE
-
DATE GRADUATED:
C 0 D E
DEGREE:
TELEPHONE SINGLE:
GRADUATED
MARRIED: DEGREE:
GRADE POINT AVERAGE:
Out of
ACTIVITIES IN COLLEGE:
WORK EXPERIENCE: (LIST LAST JOB FIRST and give as much information as possible within the space provided.) (1) FROM
TO
(2) FROM
TO.
•
OUTSTANDING ALPHA ACHIEVEMENTS:
Mail to: Committee on Personnel, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. 4432 Martin Luther King Drive, Chicago, Illinois 60615
Message to Leading Industries
(Continued from page 21)
No, the people in this room are in a position of making some of the most important contributions to the continuing progress of the Black community in this country. When I heard the list of companies read off, it was obvious that the list included a good majority of the top 500 companies in this country. I am going to tell you the third thing about Ben Wright, because it applies primarily to the men who represent these companies here today. Those of you who know Ben Wright, you don't have to listen because you know him anyway. Ben Wright goes out and finds out what the facts are, gets them clearly in his mind and then, whether you like to hear it or you don't, he tells it to you factually and direct. And you know it is honest. And, I hope you don't consider
me out of line if I give you some advice or if I even urge you to follow that example. Follow that example in the company that you work in, because, in my opinion, unless you do that you can never really do true justice to youself, to your goals, to your ideals, and very frankly, you can't do true justice to the company where you work. I got too serious, and I am going to excuse myself so that this is a happy occasion. This is an occasion where, again, I want to personally for Bristol-Myers and for Clairol, to congratulate Ben Wright for doing a great job in so many different ways. Ways that benefit not only our company, but, in my opinion, our country as well. And, again I want to thank all of you here today for letting me speak to you. 37
Chicago Alphas Honor Alpha Widows
Xi Lambda Chapter honored the widows of Chapter members at the Chapter's Annual Labor Day Breakfast. Among those in attendance, as shown above, were State Representative Lewis A. H. Caldwell (seated), standing left to right, Judge Kenneth Wilson, Mrs. Claude Barnett, Judge Richard Harewood, Mrs. Kenneth Wilson, Alderman A. A. Rayner, Judge and Mrs. Glenn Johnson, Mrs. Julia Brown, Judge Russell DeBow, Committeeman John Stroger.
Brother Stokes Appointed President of Utica Junior College Utica, Miss. — Brother J. Louis Stokes, the Business Manager of Utica Junior College for the past twelve years, has been named President of the College. The announcement of the Board of Trustees' Action was made by Mr. R. E. Woolley, Board President. Brother Stokes assumed the duties of President on July 1, succeeding Walter Washington, who has been recently named the President of Alcorn A & M College, at Lorman, Mississippi. Brother Stokes received his Bachelors Degree, in the area of Business Administration from Mississippi Valley State College, and his Masters Degree from the Univesrity of Omaha, in the field of Education, with emphasis in Supervisor and Administration and Business Management. He has had further study at Mississippi State Univesrity, through extension and the Universities Center in Jackson, Mississippi .
Brother J. Louis Stokes
CONGRATULATIONS — to Brother William E. Peterson, newly elected president of the National Bar Association. Brother and Mrs. Peterson are seated, while Mrs. Pauline H. Williams of New York City, Brother J. Herbert King, Miss Miriam K. Stewart and Brother Bennett Stewart of Chicago, share with them the enjoyment of his election.
31
Brother Stokes is a member of the Mississippi Teachers Association, Hinds County Teachers Association, and Phi Delta Kappa, where he is president-elect of the Field Chapter. Membership in other organizations include The American Legion, Elks (I.B.P.O.E.W.), Alumni Associations of M.V.S.C. and Omaha University. He is the past president of the M.V.S.C. Alumni Association. His religious affiliation is with the Church of Christ. He is a member of the Alpha Epsilon Lambda Chapter of Jackson, Mississippi.
FRAT FUN WITH WINTERS (Continued from page 29) — It's easy enough to make money if only you know how. An immigrant who landed here penniless learned only three words of English and today he is worth a fortune. The three words were "Stick 'em up!" — He attended a cigarette habit clinic and the psychiatrist asked his age, his occupation and his religion. Then he asked, "How's your sex life?" The patient reminded the doctor "Sir, it's my smoking I want to stop." — A very rich and influential old industrialist in a midwestern town was being married to a girl barely past teenage. The minister was young and nervous and addressed the bride first. "Wilt thou take this man etc., etc. and keep thee unto him as long as you both shall live?" She replied, "I do." The minister turned to the man and asked the usual same questions including, "do you promise to love and cherish her as long as you both shall live?" The man replied, "I'll try." Yes, I went to the Astrodome in Houston and in my mind it is truly the eighth wonder of the world. It was as bright as daylight inside and as cool as a Spring day, but outside it was infernally hot. There was a hound dog out there chasing a rabbit and they were both walking. One of the most inspiring and dramatic passages in the Holy Bible relates to the Sermon on the Mount. We, too, had our Mount and our sermons. Alphas saw the multitudes gathering and went up unto the mountain. This mountain was the Shamrock Hilton Grand Ballroom. And they came by twos, and they came by fours; they came, they ate, they chatted. they drank. They looked at the forty dignitaries at the twin platforms of tables. They listened as the president identified, introduced and gave a biological sketch of each one without notes. Verily, verily, one-thousand and twelve souls constituting the Formal Banquet saw and heard something that will hardly be duplicated in many moons to come. Past president, Wesley, y-clept Charles in his dissertation on the Minor prophets of Alpha and contemporaneous history gave a classic review of an expanse of fraternal chronology. In summary, Prophet Ernest gave a marvelous repetition of his mnemonic expertise with an extended address replete with wit, wisdom and wassail. The dimensions of time or the chronology of an era or events are interpreted by the characters involved and the Houston episodes were ideal. Take Alpha Phi Alpha and American industries. In 1964, eleven representatives were present in a two hour program at the convention. This year fifty-six industries, including the United States Government, were present in an all day Seminar. In 1964, eleven prospects were selected for employment. This year one company alone employed eleven prospects. If I did not tell you, would you know that 445 women, 288 children and 727 brothers were registered by Bro. Grimes and his smiling, courteous registrants. Have you heard about the complete arrangement and staging of the convention by Director General Kermit J. Hall and his convention committee? It is said that Brother Hall did not have to use one aspirin tablet, nor will he need any for the 1970 convention in Philadelphia. Whether you hear it or not, I will tell you about Brother A. C. Herald, convention chairman and Banquet toastmaster who, in a continuous stream of inspiration
ALPHA AWARDS . . . 1969 THE ALPHA AWARD O F HONOR was presented to: SENATOR BARBARA JORDAN THE ALPHA AWARD O F MERIT was presented to: BROTHER THEODORE M. BERRY Special Awards for dedicated service were presented to: Bro. William H. Brown, III Bro. Benjamin H. Wright Brother Belford V. Lawson, Jr. Most Outstanding Graduate Chapter — MU LAMBDA — Washington, D. C. Most Outstanding Undergraduate Chapter: Alpha Phi Chapter — Clark College, Atlanta, Georgia. Public Service Awards were presented to: The Coca Cola Company Rums of Puerto Rico The Pepsi Cola Company The 7-Up Company
MILITANCY OR MODERATION (Continued from page 9) the president of the company has spoken out quite clearly and quite distinctly that he does truly and in fact believe in equal opportunities in employment. But it is amazing to me that many times 1 have seen the $100,000 a year vice-president and his directive completely blocked by a $100 a week clerk in the personnel office. And, unless and until you go down on record as truly believing in equal employment and requiring those under you to report back to you whal they have done, and unless and until you give the same degree of importance to the ideal of equal employment opportunities that you give to sales and quality control and safety, we will be here five years from now and your record will be no better than they are today. (Continued In Next Issue) and expirational badinage, told us like it was, like it is and like it's going to be. I will not omit mentioning some of the ladies recorded in my notes. So as not to involve any specific name, these ladies either gave me Frat Fun encouragement, a big smile or a nice kiss. I remember Mrs. Ethel (Kermit) Hall, Mrs. Dorothy (Myles) Paige Mrs. Fanny (Maceo) Smith. Mrs. Lionel H. Newsome, Mrs. William Alexander, Mrs. Levin Weiss, Mrs. Lillian Frances, Local Hostess head, and Mrs. Pree, Wilkens and Hewitt from Philadelphia. Seated in the lobby one day in a mood of contemplation and probably a bit of loneliness, I was greatly helped by a demure little lady who passed quietly by and casually lay a comforting hand on my shoulder and silently passed on. Thank you Sybil Haydel Morial. Dimensional chronology is depicted in the use and expense of the six days devoted to the 63rd anniversary general convention. The time and dates selected by all of us made the history of one of the largest and best of Alpha Phi Alpha existence. "Remember, today is the first day of the rest of your life." Selah 39
FIRST FRATERNITY
OMEGA CHAPTER
(Continued from page 34) The early founders at Cornell had no difficulty in spreading their aim of social purpose. In the area of social action, Alpha Phi Alpha has also been active both through individual members and as a fraternity. Such action is particulary evident in civil rights. Through the work of lawyer-members such as Thurgood Marshall, the universities of Maryland, Mississippi, and Texas were required to open their law schools to Negro applicants; pressure from Alpha Phi Alpha (and the courage of Brother Elmer Henderson in suing the railroads) helped to bring about the Supreme Court decision which in effect, outlawed discrimination in dining cars. The fraternity contributed to the defense of the Scottsboro boys and the Martin Luther King's (an Alpha himself) campaign in Montgomery. Education has also been an important social action goal for the fraternity. As early as 1920 a week was set aside each year to promote Alpha Phi Alpha's "Goto-High School Go-to-College" program. In 1933 the Alpha Phi Alpha Foundation was established to promote scholarship, encourage graduate research, and create opportunities for trained Negroes in industry. Over 76,000 scholarships have been awarded by the national fraternity, including one of $25,000 set up at Cornell in 1956 during the fraternity's semicentennial celebration The Cornell scholarship is to be awarded on merit, not race; in the last few years a student in the COSEP program has been the recipient. From its start at Cornell ,the fraternity has grown to serve not only the black community, but the nation through members who have contributed to virtually every field of American life. Submitted by Brother G. Alx. Galvin President of Alpha Chapter
ALPHA WORKSHOP (Continued from page 32) RESOLUTIONS: Many resolutions were adopted and expressions of appreciation extended to those responsible for many courtesies during the Convention. All have been duly acknowledged. Consideration is still being given to the creation of a permanent memorial to our late Brother Martin Luther King, Jr. appropriate as to location and design in keeping with his illustrious careerFUTURE CONVENTIONS: The 64th Anniversary Convention will be held in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania the first week in August of 1970; the site of the 1971 Convention is Milwaukee, Wisconsin; the site of 1972 Convention is Denver, Colorado; and the site of the 1973 Convention is New Orleans, Louisiana. GRAND TAX: Well, brothers, that time is her again. November 15, 1969 is the dead line, — so lets get those Grand Taxes in, and lets reach that 10,000 mark this year. We can do it, and we will do it. The North Carolina Alphagram puts it in a nut shell by stating: "Sample kaleidoscope for the 63rd Anniversary Convention: jump suits, "bushes," Texas State Senator Barbara Jordan; caucuses, Brother Floyd McKissack; dashikis, thunder and wisdom for Past General Presidents Wesley, Lawson, Newsom, Paige and Smith; good humor, a multitude of brothers, wives, children, wonderful hard working hosts and hostesses; Astro-everything (including baseball game — Cubs vs Astros — special evening at the Astro-dome); news coverage including photos; Mexico for some); deep concern, envolvement and many pointed statements from the various brothers in attendance. LAURENCE T. YOUNG Executive Secretary Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. 40
(Continued from page 5) Fred Wilbur Fenner Anselm J. Finch H. Leslie Giles Roger F. Gordon Milus J. Graham Madison Blount Gray Walter Harmon Robert O. Harris George W. Hayes George W. Hilliard Jesse L. Holliday Charles P. Howard Sr. Julius Hyde Lloyd Isaacs Oglesvie L. E- Lawson Craig H. Lee G. Hubert Lockhart Jerry Luck, Jr. Norman W. Manley William M. Martin, Jr. Dan R. Miller John H. Mims Orlando S. Moss Godfrey F. Nurse Claude A. Orton, Jr. Abner B. Owen, Jr. Perry D. G Pennington J. Elbert Pettress James M. Pierce Joseph Alphonso Pierce Edwin Thomas Pratt Robert C. Rhone, Jr. Stoney Robinson William O. Robinson Hollis N. Rollins Leon D. Samples Hannibal P. Saundle Clarence B. Shelton Robert G. Smith Wesley M. Thomas Raymond L. Thompson Joseph M. Walker Cecil Ward Clarence E. Warren Wendell Williams William L. Williams Earl A- Woods Thomas Wooten Ralph Jonathan Young Robert L. Young James C. Wallace, D.D.S.
T h e y o u n g man a n d w o m a n p i c t u r e d at right are a m o n g t h e t h o u s a n d s of s t u d e n t s w h o g r a d u a t e e a c h year f r o m c o l l e g e s and universities affilated with the United Negro College Fund.
They are the
A
advance guard of a n e w generation of Negro youth who possess the knowledge and skills required to enter the mainstream of our economy. As intelligent and educated Negro Americans, they hope to be able to live productive and creative lives . . . to contribute to our society in ways their parents never dreamed possible. We believe they will succeed.
But the future of these young graduates must be balanced against the plight of millions of boys and girls living in the substratum of every city in this country. If we as Americans are to give substance to the phrase, "equality of opportunity," every capable youngster must be given an equal chance to realize his full educational potential. And this attainable goal must be shared by vastly larger numbers of gifted Negro youth — as soon as possible. The challenge is urgent. It must be met now. The alternative is to deny more than 20 million people the rights to share fully in the benefits of our society . . . to sustain a pattern of rejection, despair and hopelessness for a great many college-age youth. As a noted historian recently observed, "The rate of economic and social change in the United States is so rapid that a handicapped group falls even further behind if it progresses more slowly than the rest of the population."
This is precisely what is happening to Negro Americans. The 33 institutions affiliated with the United Negro College Fund cannot possibly educate all of the Negro and other deprived youngsters who could benefit from a college education. But they are educating one out of every six Negro students attending the nation's 2,238 colleges and universities. And they are the only group of institutions in the country determined to seek out, motivate and educate substantially larger numbers of deprived youth now denied the right to a full education. Their mission, in brief, is to identify potentially capable students and to extend quality education, particularly to those high school graduates who are restricted by poverty or handicapped by inferior public schooling. Every thoughtful American can play an important role in this, the most important educational endeavor of our generation. By supporting the Fund, you will be acting — directly and purposefully — to help thousands of promising students continue their education. By contributing to the United Negro College Fund, you will be helping equalize educational opportunities — without which there is no equality in employment, housing or any other meaningful aspect of American life.
Support THE UNITED NEGRO COLLEGE FUND 55 East 52nd Street / New York, N.Y. 10022 Education is the "great equalizer of the conditions of men . . .
the balance wheel of the social machinery."
The Sphinx Second Class Postage Paid Chicago, Illinois
4432 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive
Chicago, Illinois 60653 Return Requested
Brother Charles H. Wesley Notable Black Historian
"It was in late August, 1619 that an English or Dutch ship dropped anchor in Jamestown Harbor, the first English settlement, and traded 19 black indentured African servants for food. "Within a few years, those servants were free. Most became farmers, artists, and businessmen. Some, however, later became slaves. "Black Africans came to the New World at least 100 years before the settlers landed at Jamestown. There were numerous blacks with Spanish explorers throughout the Southwest in the 1400s. "These prior contacts must not be overlooked. My black friends, this land is ours as well as theirs. There is no fundamental right to consider this a white man's country."
From a speech delivered in Jamestown, Virginia, commemorating the 350th anniversary of the landing of the first black men on American soil.
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