U.S. Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37)  and California State Senator Steven Bradford (SD-35) were the guests of honor at the 2024 ”Blu and White Ball” in recognition of their accomplishments serving California residents. The Founders’ Day formal gala took place on January 14, 2024 at The Mezz in Los Angeles.  

The event, which was hosted by the Blu Collective Experience to celebrate the founding of both Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. and Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. organizations that both the U.S. Congresswoman and the California State Senator are members. Congresswoman Kamlager-Dove was initiated into her sorority as an undergrad at the University of Southern California in 1994 and State Senator Bradford was initiated into his fraternity at California State University, Dominguez Hills in 1979.

“I am incredibly honored to accept this recognition during the Blu Collective Experience Gala,”  stated Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove. “For me, being a Zeta was always about the Sisterhood. It  has meant being part of a community that supports Finer Black women and amplifies their voices,  needs, and resilience. Zetas are women of service, and every day in Congress, I am proud to  advocate for the principles and movements that have defined Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. for 103  years. From my passion for advancing the arts in Congress to strengthening strategic U.S.-Africa  ties and diplomacy, I continue to reflect on how being a Zeta has made a difference in my life. I was proud to introduce a resolution in the House congratulating and commending Zeta Phi Beta  Sorority, Inc. on their years of service and sisterhood. Most of all, I deeply value how being a Zeta  has meant leading with love, something I will continue to do in my work in public service.” 

According to the press release Congresswoman Kamlager-Dove, who represents the 37^th Congressional District covering the Los Angeles area that includes Leimert Park, Baldwin Hills, Inglewood, Culver City, and Beverly Hills, was given the prestigious award largely because of her work serving Californians throughout her public service tenure and in recognition of her upward trajectory as a junior Congressmember.

“It is an honor to join the Blu and White family to celebrate our illustrious Founders of Phi Beta  Sigma and Zeta Phi Beta,” stated State Senator Bradford. “From the beginning, it was  our Founders’ dream to create an organization that viewed itself as ‘a part of” the general  community rather than ‘apart from’ the general community. Through my tenure as a State Senator,  I’ve represented my district as a proud public servant, serving the community. As a 45-year  member of Phi Beta Sigma and Former National Director of Bigger & Better Business, I am  extremely proud and humbled to be recognized by my Southern California fraternity brothers and Sorors for representing the ideals of Culture For Service, Service For Humanity, Blue Phi For  Life!” 

The 2024 Blu and White Ball was not only a splendid celebration of the founding of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. and Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., but also a heartfelt recognition of the exemplary service and dedication of U.S. Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager-Dove and California State Senator Steven Bradford. Their commitment to public service, as well as their profound contributions to their respective communities and the ideals of their Greek organizations, was acknowledged with well-deserved honors. The evening served as a reminder of the enduring impact that individuals like Congresswoman Kamlager-Dove and Senator Bradford can make, not only within the realms of politics and public service but also in fostering unity, sisterhood, and a commitment to community betterment.