Omega Phi Beta
Omega Phi Beta (ΩΦΒ) is a sorority founded on March 15, 1989 at the State University of New York in Albany, New York by seventeen women of diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds. It is a member organization of National Association of Latino Fraternal Organizations (NALFO).
| Omega Phi Beta | |
|---|---|
| ΩΦΒ | |
| Founded | March 15, 1989 University at Albany, SUNY |
| Type | Social |
| Emphasis | Academic, Professional |
| Scope | National |
| Motto | "Sirviendo y Educando a Través de Nuestra Diversidad" ("Serving and Educating Through Our Diversity") |
| Colors | Black Forest Green Radiant Gold |
| Flower | Sunflower |
| Mascot | Hummingbird |
| Publication | El Girasol |
| Philanthropy | Raising Awareness Of Violence Against Women |
| Chapters | 54 Undergraduate Chapters, 14 Professional Chapters |
| Nickname | Betas, Radiant Sisters, Sunflowers & Girasoles |
| Headquarters | Grand Central Station PO Box 3352 New York, New York U.S. |
| Website | www.omegaphibeta.org |
The sorority has undergraduate and alumnae chapters and colonies predominantly based on the East Coast. The organization has expanded into the Midwest, California, and South East in the recent years. The organization's goal, as its motto ("Serving and Educating Through Our Diversity") implies, is to create an outlet for all women through its emphasis on multiculturalism. The organization also concerns community service and sisterhood. OPBSI is Latina-oriented, not Latina-based, further emphasizing its dedication to diversity.
Philanthropy
Omega Phi Beta concerns overcoming the injustices and oppression of women in society. It celebrates the success of past women, recognizes the accomplishments of women today, and promotes to uplift future generations. Recognizing that violence against women hinders progression, it has broadened the scope of its National Philanthropy to include all forms of violence affecting women, including but not limited to: domestic violence, sexual assault, sexual harassment, sexual mutilation, stalking and human trafficking.[1]
Through its broadened National Philanthropy, Raising Awareness of Violence Against Women, Omega Phi Beta will continue to dedicate themselves to community while making a commitment to women's rights. It believes that its partnership with Amnesty International (established June 2005) will assist this.[2]
It has helped to raise over ten thousand dollars towards AIDS research and Domestic Violence Awareness initiatives,[3] created youth mentoring groups such as S.O.U.L. (Steppin’ Off to Unite Latinas) and the Madrinas Program, created various scholarships such as the Reach For the Gold book scholarship, and was the first Latina sorority to participate in and win Step Correct, a traditionally NPHC competition (January 1, 2007).[4]
Omega Phi Beta Foundation
Omega Phi Beta Foundation (OPBF) has been organized to operate exclusively for charitable and educational purposes within the scope of Section 501 (c)(3) of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code. Omega Phi Beta Foundation (OPBF) is a national, philanthropic organization committed to providing leadership, academic & community development opportunities, through educational, fundraising & grant-making initiatives, that support individuals and organizations dedicated to advancing women's rights in STEM/STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, & Math).
.[5] OPBF's mission is to implement and support initiatives for women and girls that strive to build a safe and equitable world for all via leadership and educational programs for communities nationwide. The organization was created in response to the ongoing need for role models and leaders in the community.
Awards & Recognitions
- 2003, 2004, 2005 - LatinosStep Annual Summer Step Show - National Champions
- 2006 - LatinosStep 5th Annual Silk and Smooth Stroll Champions
- 2007 - StepCorrect National Step Competition Champions
- 2007 - MTV True Life - I'm Stepping - Featuring the journey of the Soul Steppin' Divas National Step Team compete
- 2011, 2012, 2013 - Art of Stepping - RISC Step/Stroll Championship - National Step Champions
- 2012, 2013 - RISC Step/Stroll Championship - National Stroll Champions
- 2014 - Art of Stepping (AOS) Inductees to the Art of Step/Stroll Hall of Fame
Notable Members: Eve Marie Torres - Grace, Caridad De La Luz 'Bruja', Jessica 'REMO' Saul, Founder of the Art of Stepping; Monica Rivera, Author; Dr. Ariana Curtis; Dr. Cassandra St. Vil; Cindy Chu, writer, producer and actor in Queens
References
- "Omega Phi Beta Hosts Pace's First SlutWalk". The Pace Chronicle. Retrieved 20 March 2014.
- "Human trafficking week: film screenings, discussions attempt to raise awareness, promote campus activism". The DePauw. 20 November 2009. Retrieved 20 March 2014.
- "SLU donated to the Omega Phi Beta National Step Team's 3rd Annual Step Tour". Retrieved 6 March 2005.
- "True Life: I'm a Stepper". MTV. Retrieved 20 March 2014.
- "OPBSI Announces Launch of Omega Phi Beta Foundation!". Retrieved 14 October 2013.