A Moment in Alpha History: Seven Days of Reflection
Brothers, as we embark on celebrating 115 years since the founding of our beloved Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. on December 4th, 1906, and honoring our “SEVEN BELOVED JEWELS” of this great fraternity. This year, instead of providing you with a long biographical sketch of their lives, I would like to do something different. This year, leading up to December 4th, I would like for the Brotherhood to have “Seven Days of Reflection”. During this time, I will provide you with quotes from our “Jewels”. Take the time to read and reflect on what those quotes mean to you during your Alpha journey (for some as you begin your Alpha journey) and the relevance of the quotes today. Just think, for 115 years, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. has withstood the test of time. So starting today begins “Seven Days of Reflection”.
Today we honor: The Philosopher Jewel: Henry Arthur Callis for his inspired leadership, prophetic vision and dedicated service to his fellow man. He was a Scholar, Educator, Pathologist, Cardiologist, 1st Black certified Internist in the US, Author and Lecturer. He became the 7th General President (1915) of our beloved fraternity and was the Founder of the National Medical Association. He dedicated 68 years to our Fraternity’s development until his transition into Omega Chapter in 1974. Our reflective quotes today:
-Jewel Henry Arthur Callis, Founder’s Address, NY Convention, 1939.
“For Alpha Phi Alpha, this awareness of our opportunity should mean a vigorous criticism of our conceptions and an examination of our procedures. We need wisely to appraise our times, to be responsive to contemporary thought; to bear the burden of a disadvantaged people; to stand firmly upon character and principle, making no sacrifice for some temporary good. In Alpha Phi Alpha, there is the background for the ideas, visions, and plans for a New Order.”
“Alpha Phi Alpha now is expendable. We are no longer necessary for the advancement of human rights in this decade. Indeed, I am not certain we are prepared for the responsibilities of this period. Our interests have become too narrow. Dances and cocktail parties replace discussion of current problems and active participation in community and regional affairs.”
– Jewel Henry Arthur Callis, May 1960.
This is your moment in Alpha History.
Brother Sean C. Hall, Historian
