Sigma Kappa Zeta Fights

Sigma Kappa Zeta Fights Against Domestic Violence

“What’s happening? What are we going to do?”

Photo by Alex Green from Pexels

These questions floated throughout daily conversations amongst many at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic which had the world in its grip almost immediately. After our wonderful Centennial Celebration at the start of 2020, New York City suddenly became the epicenter of the health crisis. That year tested sorors’ resilience, but ultimately strengthened new ways to empower their Brooklyn community as well as themselves. Sigma Kappa Zeta kicked their efforts into high gear and immediately went into action living up to their motto “extolling excellence and discouraging satisfaction with the second rate.” Leading the way for change, SKZ continued to rally behind their community and give vision for others to be informed, inspired and involved despite the loss and upheaval which occurred throughout the country.

A serious concern since the beginning of the pandemic has been the rise in Domestic Violence cases due to many people being stuck at home with their abusers. In our organization we know of three sorors who were recently lost to Domestic Violence. There are surely many more whose names and situations we do not know of. In light of this, Centennial International Grand Basileus, Valerie Hollingsworth Baker, appointed SKZ’s very own charter member Soror Karen Gooden to the position of Director of the International Domestic Violence Programmatic Initiative (DVPI). Soror Gooden has been a leading advocate in shining light on an issue that affects so many individuals in our immediate circles. With this new initiative, SKZ was guided by their chapter DVPI coordinators, Soror Mychelle Edwards (Chair) and Soror Naomi Hayes (Co-Chair) and Soror Shirley Caro, Esq. (Atlantic Region DVPI Coordinator) who have played a pivotal role in addressing this matter by hosting virtual events to bring awareness. Their first event was “That’s Not Ok, That’s Abuse” which created a safe space to learn and talk about domestic violence. Their participants were able to openly talk about their experiences and share their survival stories. The second event, “Kick Away Domestic Violence” was a virtual kickboxing class where SKZ and participants learned techniques on how to protect themselves. All programs were geared to empowering and giving participants the tools to stand up against domestic violence.

While celebrating the Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc. Centennial year, Sigma Kappa Zeta chapter has displayed a newfound strength and purpose while being faced with the uncertainties of the pandemic and racial injustices in the country. The chapter has remained steadfast in supporting the collective “Call to Action” and will continue in their efforts to assist in supporting the Brooklyn community.