The Torch The Official Newsletter of Mu Lambda Chapter Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. _________________________________________________________
February, 2010 Message from the President Brother Timothy Fitzgerald
Brothers, February is Black History Month, Americans have recognized black history annually since 1926, first as “Negro History Week” and later as “Black History Month”. What you may not know is that Black history had barely begun to be studied-or even documented-when the tradition originated. Although Blacks have been in the Americas as far back as colonial times, and even before that. It was not until the 20th century that they gained a respectable presence in the history books. We owe the celebration of Black History Month, and more importantly, the study of black history, to Dr. Carter G. Woodson. On August 28, 1963, some 250,000 people, of all races, participated in the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom, the largest demonstration in the history of the nation’s capital and the most significant display of the civil rights movement’s growing strength. After marching from the Washington Monument, the activists gathered near the Lincoln Memorial, where a number of civil rights leaders addressed the crowd, calling for voting rights, equal employment opportunities for Blacks and to end racial segregation. “ I have a dream”, King intoned, expressing his faith that one day Whites and Blacks would stand together as equals, and there would be harmony among the races”.
One day after celebrating the birthday of our late brother Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. on January 19, 2008, the nation gathered again on the steps of The Capitol, The Mall and The Lincoln Memorial to witness the inauguration of the first African- American President, Barack Hussein Obama. The general election drew massive crowds, and his message of hope and change embodied by the slogan “Yes We Can” inspired millions of people.
Brothers please continue to be inspired to do the work of Alpha. Our membership is increasing, Brothers, please take the time to welcome our new Brothers to Mu Lambda Chapter and get reacquainted with current members. There are a lot of exciting events coming our way. Brothers continue to hold the light of Alpha high! See you at the next chapter meeting Thursday, February 4th 2010.
Inside this Edition: •
The Executive Message
•
Alpha Wives Section
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Membership News
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Black History Month Events
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MLK Day Events
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Last Word
•
Beautillion Update
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Haitian Relief Efforts
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Black Facts
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Historical Moment
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Birthdays
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The Alpha House
Walter Whitley Editor
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