The National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) of California State University hosted the 25th Annual Long Beach Step Show on Saturday April 14th at the Walter Pyramid in Long Beach, California. Various organizations across the West Coast competed for a cash prize and additional funds for their organization’s philanthropy project.
The theme focused on ‘90s nostalgia. Participants were encouraged to incorporate ‘90s culture throughout their performance. This ranged from wearing ‘90s attire, to paying homage to prominent television show’s such as “Martin” and “Living Single.”
Multi-million selling recording artist Montell Jordan took the stage to perform his hit song “This Is How We Do It.” Jordan, who is a member of Kappa Alpha Psi fraternity, spoke about the importance of Greek culture and his new venture as a pastor.
NPHC’s history holds a strong bond with the Civil Rights Movement. Black Greek Letter Organizations (BGLO) were created when Black people could not join any fraternities or sororities. Since the early 1900’s, BGLO’s efforts shaped the progression of Black culture. Prominent political leaders are Greek members. Martin Luther King, member of Alpha Phi Alpha, Coretta Scott King, member of Alpha Kappa Alpha, and Shirley Chisholm, member of Delta Sigma Theta, are few examples of the numerous members who promoted Black progression.
In the end, members of Alpha Phi Alpha took home the prize for the fraternity category, while the ladies of Sigma Gamma Rho won the sorority category.
If interested in becoming a member of the NPHC, please visit the specific organization’s national website for more information.