As her term as Vice President comes to a close this month, we at Watch The Yard are taking a moment to reflect on Kamala Harris’ extensive engagement with the Divine Nine throughout her historic term as VP.

A Spring 1986 initiate of the Alpha Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. at Howard University herself, Harris spoke often to the critical contributions of Black Greek Letter Organizations(BGLOs) in shaping American leadership and community progress. From hosting NPHC leaders at the White House to delivering keynote addresses at Black sorority and fraternity conventions across the nation, Harris has consistently placed the legacy and mission of these organizations at the forefront of her administration’s outreach efforts.

Here are some of her most notable moments with the Divine Nine and collegiate communities, emphasizing her dedication to amplifying their voices and legacy.

On Wednesday, October 6, 2021, Vice President Kamala Harris hosted a meeting in her ceremonial office with the leaders of the National Pan Hellenic Council organizations.  During the meeting, the Vice President highlighted how the Biden-Harris Administration was working to deliver what would become historic investments in supporting communities, advancing economic opportunity, and helping people thrive.

On Friday, May 17, 2024, President Joe Biden and Vice Kamala Harris met with Divine Nine Leaders in the Oval Office.

During her travels to 36 states since taking office, she regularly met with leaders in their local communities –including members of the Divine Nine.

During her time in office, the Vice President Kamala Harris has delivered keynote remarks at several Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Boulés and leadership gatherings. 

On Wednesday, July 10, 2022 Vice President Harris delivered a keynote speech at Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.’s 70th Boulé in Orlando, FL. [REMARKS]

On Wednesday, July 10, 2024 Vice President Harris continued her Summer of Engagements by returning to Dallas, TX for a keynote speech at Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.’s 71st Boulé. [REMARKS]

On Thursday, July 21, 2022,  Vice President Kamala Harris delivered keynote remarks at Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.’s Conclave in Charlotte, NC. [REMARKS]

On Wednesday, July 20, 2023, Vice President Kamala Harris delivered keynote remarks at the Social Action Luncheon during the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. National Convention in Indianapolis, Indiana. [REMARKS]

On Wednesday, July 24, 2024,  Vice President Kamala Harris returned to Indianapolis, IN for a keynote speech at Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.’s Grand Boulé. [REMARKS] 

While in attendance, the Vice President greeted Zeta Phi Beta Soror, Ms. Opal Lee. At 98 years old, is credited as the matriarch in the movement to make Juneteenth a federal holiday. 

On Wednesday, July 31, 2024, Vice President Harris continued her Summer of Engagements by returning to Houston, TX to deliver remarks at Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.’s 60th International Biennial Boule. [REMARKS]

Some of the Vice President’s Collegiate + D9 engagements include: 

Statement from Vice President Kamala Harris on the Biden-⁠Harris Administration’s Historic Investments in HBCUs
 
The Vice President embarked on a nationwide Fight for Our Freedoms College Tour where she mobilized more than 15,000 students while making nine stops at HBCUs, Hispanic-Serving Institutions, community colleges, apprenticeship programs, and state schools. During each stop, she took questions directly from young leaders on issues critical to the future of the nation, including reproductive freedom, gun safety, the environment, voting rights, and the economy.
 
Vice President Harris maintained a regular presence on high school and college campuses. She visited nearly 20 college campuses in 2023 after visiting 14 schools in 2022. She has also visited registered apprenticeship programs across the country.
 
On Thursday, February 29, 2024, the Vice President paid homage to Historically Black Colleges and Universities by hosting a celebration at the her residence at the U.S. Naval Observatory HBCUs represented included Spelman College, Morehouse College, Howard University, Tennessee State University, Delaware State University, South Carolina State University, Hampton University, and Lincoln University, among others.

On Wednesday, January 8, 2025, Vice President Kamala Harris welcomed fellow members of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated to the Navy Steps of the Eisenhower Executive Office Building on the White House campus. The gathering, which included current and former members of the Biden-Harris Administration who are part of the sorority, marked the Vice President’s fourth year hosting an early Founders Day celebration alongside her sisters.

As Vice President Kamala Harris prepares to close this chapter of her historic career, her engagement with the Divine Nine stands as a hallmark of her commitment to community and leadership. Her efforts to amplify the work of Black Greek Letter Organizations—whether through intimate gatherings, national addresses, or campus visits—have solidified their role in driving progress and fostering civic engagement.

This reflection on some of her work with the NPHC is not just a look back but also a reminder of the enduring legacy these organizations hold. At Watch The Yard, our purpose is to document and archive moments in Black Greek history, both past and present. We have had the honor of being in the room for many of these events, witnessing history in real time and preserving it for future generations. Through her advocacy and collaboration, Vice President Harris has ensured that the Divine Nine remain a vital force in shaping the future of leadership and service in America.