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PROPOSED RESOLUTION
HONORING THE 113th OMEGA PSI PHI FRATERNITY INCORPORATED
WHEREAS, On November 17, 1911, Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Incorporated was founded at Howard University located in Washington, D.C. from the efforts of three undergraduates: Edgar Amos Love, Oscar James Cooper and Frank Coleman; and,
WHEREAS, the fraternity was incorporated under the laws of Washington, D.C., on October 28, 1914; and,
WHEREAS, from the initials of the Greek phrase meaning, “friendship is essential to the soul, “the name Omega Psi Phi was derived and made the Organization’s public motto; and,
WHEREAS, Manhood, Scholarship, Perseverance and Uplift were adopted as Cardinal Principles; and,
WHEREAS, Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Incorporated played a vital role in the United States’ involvement in World War I in 1917 with some members a part of the first class of black soldiers from Camp Fort Des Moines; and,
WHEREAS, at the urging of member Carter G. Woodson, the fraternity launched Negro History and Literature Week to publicize the growing body of scholarship on African American history; and,
WHEREAS, local notable members include civil rights activist and founder of Operation PUSH/Rainbow Coalition, Rev. Jesse Jackson, and State Representative Kam Buckner, 26th District; and,
WHEREAS, we remember the lives and legacies of two of the fraternity members, Cook County Commissioners Robert Steele and Dennis Deer, both of the 2nd District; and,
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Cook County Board of Commissioners, on behalf of the residents of Cook County does hereby celebrate Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Incorporated during its 113th Founders Day, and;
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a suitable copy of this resolution be presented as a symbol of our respect and esteem.
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