Atlanta, GA - America owes the celebration of Black History Month in February to Dr. Carter G. Woodson. Dr. Woodson was also a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity. In his studies, Brother Woodson found that regardless of the contributions of Black inventors, military leaders, scholars and academicians, American history books largely ignored the accomplishments of Negroes.

In 1927, at the urging of Dr. Woodson, Omega Psi Phi made National Negro Achievement Week an annual observance by the Fraternity. In 1976, this commemoration evolved into Black History Month. Nowadays, we find grade school students writing essays, the media profiling black notables and church pastor's presenting program after program recognizing the great feats of our ancestry.

While it is important for the black community to bask in the glow of public service announcements and reflections from the pulpit, I would like to challenge our people to use this month to educate themselves and enlighten others and, rise up and wake up. We (black leaders) must focus on creating wealth for present and future generations, removing stereotypical perceptions of urban black culture, work with our youth, give attention to our elders and address human rights issues that have our people mentally and socially hamstrung from coast to coast.

As the 38th Grand Basileus of Omega Psi Phi, I have directed Omega Men worldwide to ramp up programs in their respective districts and chapters that will make a difference in the lives of black people. Please understand Omega Psi Phi isn't anti-anybody – our Fraternity is simply "pro-black." And, it is that pride that drives us to make what's good better – and what can be better, the best.

When business leaders and elected officials seek our support using colorful rhetoric and promises of rosy results, we must make them accountable, so the rhetoric will in fact yield results and our people will actually reap true rewards.

It is the vision of Omega Psi Phi to use our intellect and vast resources to reduce drugs, crime and poverty in our community, and to restore self-esteem, harmony and accomplishment to the constituency that we serve. Our challenge for this generation is excellence without excuse. And, eighty years from today, historians of tomorrow, like Brother Woodson will have ample documentation to highlight the work of heroes and heroines who answered the Clarion Call to advance our people in every way.

Special note: Inquiries pertaining to Omega Psi Phi can be directed to Ben Holbert, Director of Communications, (404) 805-2840 or www.oppf.org.

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