At Cleveland State University, the Zeta Phi Beta sorority and Phi Beta Sigma fraternity embody the meaning of all the achievements that Black History Month celebrates.

BHM is marked through February, a month-long observance that each year honors the contributions and central role of the Black community to U.S. history. BHM is also a time to celebrate African American resilience and heritage while addressing the suffering, oppression and systemic racism much of the Black community in the U.S. encounters.

Both Zeta Phi Beta and Phi Beta Sigma were founded in 1920 at Howard University in Washington, D.C. Today, they continue to embody traditions wrapped in values and purpose. 

What separates friendships from sisterhood and brotherhood?

What separates these organizations from regular friendships is the structure behind the connections that develop. 

Both organizations focus on service, structure and the development of members emotionally, physically and intellectually. For these sisters and brothers, wearing the Greek letters is a serious pursuit.

Zeta Phi Beta and Phi Beta Sigma are both members of the Divine Nine, The D9 are the nine historically African American fraternities and sororities. Founded primarily at historically Black colleges and universities in the early 20th century, these organizations are dedicated to brotherhood/sisterhood, scholarship, service, and uplifting the Black community.

“While strong friendships can form organically, the brotherhood of Phi Beta Sigma is rooted in structure, shared purpose and accountability,” said Rameer Askew, a member of Phi Beta Sigma. “Our bond is not just based on proximity or mutual interests, but on a lifelong commitment to service, scholarships and uplifting our communities.”

Merel Walker is a member of Zeta Phi Beta, the sister sorority to Phi Beta Sigma. Walker said for her, community service was a primary factor when making the decision to join Greek life.

“I like the aspect of having a sisterhood and the bonds that form," she said. "But specifically I joined my organization because of the service we do in the community, and that is important to me,” she said.

Phi Beta Sigma is grounded in the principles of brotherhood, scholarship and service. The CSU chapter serves the community and raises funds through its car wash, the annual Gamma Alpha Sigma Chapter Scholarship Gala and Dance, attendance at the Case Western Reserve University Scholarship Conference and more.

Both organizations emphasize leadership, integrity, scholarship, service and cultural awareness.

While Black History Month lasts only through February, the black contribution to America continues to shine through in Black excellence every day.

Supporting and enriching Black excellence is the goal of all Divine Nine organizations. For more information about Phi Beta Sigma and Zeta Phi Beta visit their websites.