Delta Sigma Theta Sorority: History, Symbols, and Core Values

Founded

January 13, 1913, by 22 illustrious women at Howard University.

Incorporated

1930.

First Public Act

Participation in the Women's Suffrage March in Washington, D.C., in March 1913.

Motto

"Intelligence is the Torch of Wisdom."

Official Colors

Crimson and Cream.

Symbolism of Colors

Purity, courage, and wisdom.

Official Flower

African Violet (stands alone and still reflects beauty).

Official Animal

The Elephant (represents strength and determination).

Official Symbol

The Pyramid.

Sorority Stone

The Pearl.

Mission Statement

An organization of college-educated women committed to the constructive development of its members and to public service with a primary focus on the Black community.

Founding Principles

Scholarship, sisterhood, and community service.

Core Values

Leadership, integrity, and professionalism.

Lady Fortitude

A statue at Howard University created by James King; symbolizes strength, courage, hope, wisdom, beauty, and femininity.

Lady Fortitude's Features

Her facial features depict courage and determination; the tension in her thigh represents strength.

Lady Fortitude's Hands

Outstretched hands represent the recoding of love and the giving of oneself to others.

Five-Point Programmatic Thrust

1. Economic Development, 2. Educational Development, 3. International Awareness and Involvement, 4. Physical and Mental Health, 5. Political Awareness and Involvement.

Economic Development Focus

Financial literacy for minorities and various economic development initiatives.

Educational Development Focus

Improving education, supporting HBCUs, and programs like Delta Academy and Delta GEMS.

International Awareness Focus

Improving international development and sustainability (e.g., Mary Help of the Sick Mission Hospital).

Physical & Mental Health Focus

Promoting wellness, breast cancer awareness, and increasing access to quality healthcare.

Political Awareness Focus

Increasing involvement in social action, voter registration, and combating voter suppression.

Social Action Issues

Gender equality, addressing racial profiling, and social justice reform.

Charitable Partners

UNICEF, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, American Heart Association, and the Sisters Network.

United Nations Status

Delta Sigma Theta is a member of the United Nations (as a Non-Governmental Organization).

Sorority Crest Designers

F. Ailene Marks and Jeannette Tripplett Jones.

Shield in Crest

Holds the torch, sword, staff, and DST words.

Sword in Crest

Represents truth.

Staff in Crest

Represents intelligent leadership.

Laurel Wreath in Crest

Achievement, mark of honor, fame, distinction, glory, and victory.

The 9 Jewels

Compassion, Courtesy, Dedication, Fellowship, Fidelity, Honesty, Justice, Purity, and Temperance.

Discretion

Showing discretion, keeping your business to yourself, and not having everyone know your every move.