"Historical representation personified" – these were the words used by Rev. Al Sharpton as he described Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® and its international president, Dr. Glenda Baskin Glover, during the sorority’s 90th South Central Regional Conference. The Rev. Sharpton took the stage and gave a powerful speech, sharing with the audience his appreciation for the organization’s contributions and his longstanding dedication to community service. As a vocal and prominent figure in civil rights activism, the Rev. Sharpton’s words reignited a sense of pride during an event that was a reminder and celebration of black excellence.

"We must preserve our history and regain a sense of pride in black communities," said the Rev. Sharpton. "[This organization] has helped fund the civil rights movement. It is a reset for those who feel they do not deserve the dignity and refinement that Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated provides. "

The Rev. Sharpton was the keynote speaker at the public meeting during the four-day conference. He challenged attendees to get up and take action, invoking a sense of urgency in a world grappling with social injustice and division. Rev. Sharpton's legacy of activism is a profound reminder of the importance of service, giving a perspective and making it clear that now more than ever, the black community needs unity. Being a part of [Alpha Kappa Alpha] allows members to "have pride and connection to history."

Rev. Sharpton’s words inspired the crowd that was composed of nearly 5,000 members from Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, and Texas, and others from the Divine Nine. The public meeting is one of the events during the organization’s four-day conference where they recognize community, civic, and political leaders who have and continue to ignite their neighbors to build better neighborhoods and surrounding areas. All the honorees were able to share their heartwarming stories of how and why they serve their communities. The AKAs paid it forward even further with one honoree, who was a recent graduate of Prairie View A&M University, by offering him a full scholarship to continue his education in graduate school.

The ladies could not allow Rev. Sharpton to leave without further investing in his mission to bring justice for all with a $5,000 check for his National Action Network.

Chauncey Glover emceed the program that included other highlights of a choral rendition of the Black National Anthem "Lift Every Voice and Sing," which was sung by students from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs); Greek medley, and tributes from the members of the Divine Nine. Appearances were made by Houston mayor Sylvester Turner and Pastor Ralph West.