The Denouncing of the Divine Nine

Despite the cultural significance and community service, many Greek and non-Greek members have spoken out against inappropriate behavior and misconduct such as individuals participating in hazing, intimidation or other dishonorable activates that may damage the reputation of these organizations. Negative stereotypes that perpetually surround the organizations as being demonic or having cult-like practices, also have risen concerns.

The Divine Nine consists of nine historically Black fraternities and sororities that comprise the National Pan- Hellenic Council (NPHC). More than 2.5 million members are represented by the Divine Nine, as reported by the NPHC in Spring 2026. These organizations play a significant role in local communities through service, scholarship, fellowship, and leadership. NPHC’s founding purpose is described as “seeking unity of thought and action, in the conduct of Greek-letter collegiate fraternities and sororities.” by Howard University. The fraternities include Alpha Phi Alpha, Kappa Alpha Psi, Omega Psi Phi, Phi Beta Sigma, and Iota Phi Theta. The sororities include Sigma Gamma Rho, Zeta Phi Beta, Delta Sigma Theta, and Alpha Kappa Alpha. 

For some members of historically Black Greek organizations, denouncing a Divine Nine organization can represent more than simply walking away from a group. It can mean separating from an identity, relationships, and experiences that became connected to membership. Kyataria Miller, a member of Zeta Phi Beta Chapter Psi ETA, shares this perspective saying, “Personally, I would not view denouncing as simply removing letters or no longer participating. It would mean deciding that my values, experiences, or beliefs no longer align with what I feel the organization represents.”

According to The Philadelphia Tribune, “The NPHC declined to comment on the denunciations,” following a decision by Candace Junée, a senior at Washington University in St. Louis to denounce Alpha Kappa Alpha. Junée said her decision was based on the idea that Christians shouldn’t belong to Black sororities and fraternities like hers. While some individuals believe a Greek letter organization is a personal decision, others believe public denunciations can negatively affect the reputation of the Divine Nine. 

“Publicly denouncing Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc. is something I cannot see myself doing,” said a member of Omega Psi Phi, D’Vonte Allen. Members who remain active in their organizations, may feel disrespected with the reasons people give for leaving because of the values and promises members agreed to uphold. The Divine Nine encourages addressing negative concerns and reports about inappropriate behavior to ensure the safety and integrity of its members. 

“I believe in addressing problems, learning from experiences, and continuing to growth rather than turning my back on something that has become an important part of my life,” Allen said. 

The controversy surrounding denouncing the Divine Nine shows the different perspectives that exist within and outside historically Black Greek organizations. While individuals have the right to question or leave organizations that no longer align with their beliefs, members and supporters continue to emphasize the positive impact the Divine Nine has had through community involvement and shaping future young leaders.