WOMEN HAVE AND CONTINUE TO CHANGE THE WORLD

What started as a week in 1980 to highlight the achievements of women, later became National Women's History Month as a result of the efforts of many states who realized that women were worthy and due recognition for their accomplishments.

Since its creation in 1980, schools, organizations and countless individuals have taken time to honor women. In the book, The Message in the Mirror a little girl finally sees who she truly is, and learns to believe in her power. Sometimes the mirror is not a clear glass object, but a person who has overcome obstacles and made a difference, thereby showing young ladies that they can too.

Today we salute a group of women, the founders of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. During a time when racism, sexism and segregation still ran rampant, Ethel Hedgeman and eight other coeds at an all black university, Howard University, created the first African-American Greek Letter Sorority known as Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. The purpose of the organization was to bring together like minded women to foster interaction, ethical growth, mutual upliftment and a blending of skills and talents that would allow them to provide service to all mankind. Today, this organization proudly embodies the talents of over 290,000 college graduates in the US and abroad, who continue to promote education, advocate for those who are poor and sick, and has been the voice behind many social actions to advance human and civil rights.

Just like a mirror, the founders and members of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., continue to teach young girls to take the high road, create their own doors of opportunitywhen they are closed, and to always serve others in love.

I am proud to be a member of this illustrious organization and salute them on today as we celebrate Women's History Month. Thank you ladies for helping me to see my own strength.