Everything You Need to Know About Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.

In the tapestry of Black excellence, brotherhood, and service, Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. stands tall as a towering beacon of pride, purpose, and legacy. More than just Greek letters worn on jackets or chanted in step shows, Omega Psi Phi is a lifelong commitment to uplift, educate, lead, and serve. With over a century of history, thousands of dedicated members, and an enduring influence on culture and community, Omega is not simply a fraternity—it is a way of life.

The Birth of Omega: A Historic Beginning

On November 17, 1911, at Howard University in Washington, D.C., three undergraduate students—Frank Coleman, Oscar J. Cooper, and Edgar A. Love, along with their faculty advisor Dr. Ernest E. Just, founded what would become the first international fraternal organization established at a historically Black college.

These four visionaries, known collectively as the Founders of Omega Psi Phi, saw the need for a bond of brotherhood that would promote manhood, scholarship, perseverance, and uplift—principles that still form the foundation of the organization.

Omega Psi Phi was the first fraternity founded at an HBCU, and it immediately stood out for its focus on Black identity, empowerment, and service. In a time when African Americans were largely excluded from mainstream leadership opportunities, Omega Psi Phi created a sacred space for intellectual growth, mutual support, and civic responsibility.

The Cardinal Principles

The four cardinal principles of Omega Psi Phi are not mere slogans. They are living philosophies that guide the behavior, decisions, and life paths of every member.

1. Manhood – Representing the full embodiment of integrity, strength, and character. Omega men are expected to be role models and stand as protectors and providers in their families and communities.

2. Scholarship – Academic excellence is non-negotiable. From the beginning, the fraternity has emphasized the importance of education and continuous intellectual development.

3. Perseverance – Life comes with trials, but Omega men are built to push through. Resilience in the face of adversity is a badge of honor.

4. Uplift – Service is not optional. Omega Psi Phi commits itself to lifting others, especially within the Black community, through mentoring, volunteering, and advocacy.

Dr. Ernest E. Just: The Scientific Soul of Omega

One cannot understand Omega Psi Phi without acknowledging Dr. Ernest Everett Just, the only non-student among the Founders. A renowned biologist, scholar, and professor, Dr. Just brought intellectual rigor and spiritual insight to the fledgling fraternity. His scientific achievements were groundbreaking, particularly in cell biology and embryology, and his mentorship of the fraternity's student founders set the tone for the pursuit of excellence and purpose.

His legacy reminds every Omega man that greatness lies in knowledge, discipline, and an unrelenting quest to understand the world.

National Expansion and Influence

After its founding at Howard University, Omega Psi Phi expanded rapidly. By 1921, the fraternity had become a national organization, establishing chapters at other HBCUs such as Lincoln University and Fisk University. This growth was not just in numbers—it was a cultural and social movement.

As members went on to become doctors, lawyers, educators, clergy, and public servants, the influence of Omega Psi Phi began to shape Black thought, leadership, and identity. The fraternity played a major role during the Civil Rights Movement, with members participating in marches, policy advocacy, and community building.

Notable Omega Men

Omega Psi Phi has a storied legacy of extraordinary men whose impact transcends generations. Here are just a few:

• Dr. Charles R. Drew – Renowned medical pioneer and inventor of the blood bank.

• Langston Hughes – One of the most important poets and thinkers of the Harlem Renaissance.

• Thurgood Marshall – The first African American U.S. Supreme Court Justice.

• Rev. Jesse Jackson – Civil rights activist and founder of the Rainbow PUSH Coalition.

• Steve Harvey – Comedian, author, and philanthropist.

• Michael Jordan – Basketball legend and businessman.

• Shaquille O’Neal – Hall of Fame basketball player and entrepreneur.

• Rickey Smiley – Comedian and radio personality.

These men exemplify Omega’s ideals across fields such as medicine, law, entertainment, politics, and sports. Their success represents the fruit of the Omega tree—a testament to brotherhood, perseverance, and purpose.

Traditions and Culture: The Heartbeat of Omega

The Que Dog Persona

The term “Que Dog” is a nickname for members of Omega Psi Phi that speaks to the unapologetically bold, passionate, and expressive spirit of the fraternity. While not an official part of Omega Psi Phi’s structure, the term has become a widely recognized cultural symbol. “Ques” are known for their unique brand of energy, charisma, and pride.

Step Shows and Strolls

Omega Psi Phi is often recognized for its electrifying step shows—precision, rhythm, and storytelling merged into powerful performances. Their iconic barking, hops, and synchronized movement symbolize unity, discipline, and cultural celebration.

Yet, behind the showmanship is a deeper truth: these expressions are part of a rich African tradition of using music, rhythm, and movement to convey history, identity, and resistance.

The Purple and Gold

Omega men proudly wear the fraternity’s colors: royal purple and old gold. Purple represents royalty, leadership, and dignity, while gold stands for excellence, success, and honor. These colors aren’t just decorative—they're symbolic armor worn with pride.

The Omega Hymn

More than just a song, the Omega Hymn is a soulful expression of love, loyalty, and reverence. Sung at solemn ceremonies and moments of reflection, the hymn reminds brothers of the sacred bond they share and the mission they uphold.

Omega’s Impact on Education and Service

Scholarship Programs

From its inception, Omega Psi Phi has placed a premium on academic achievement. Each year, the fraternity awards hundreds of thousands of dollars in scholarships to deserving students—many from underserved communities.

Chapters across the country host essay contests, mentoring programs, and tutoring services. The goal is simple yet profound: elevate the next generation through access to knowledge and opportunity.

Community Service

Omega Psi Phi lives its creed of “uplift” through impactful service projects. From feeding the homeless, to mentoring young Black boys, to organizing health fairs, voter registration drives, and blood donations, Omega chapters are deeply embedded in their communities.

Programs like:

• Achievement Week – Celebrating Black excellence and leadership.

• Social Action Program – Tackling issues like poverty, injustice, and health disparities.

• Reclamation and Retention – Keeping brothers connected and active.

• Fatherhood Initiatives – Promoting responsible parenting and family involvement.

All reflect the deep, active love Omega has for its people.

A Brotherhood Beyond Borders

Omega Psi Phi isn’t confined to the United States. The fraternity has chapters in Africa, Europe, Asia, and the Caribbean, ensuring that the light of Omega shines across the globe. Wherever there is need, leadership, and excellence, Omega is there—serving, guiding, and building.

The Omega brand is international, and its global presence testifies to the universal appeal of its values.

Becoming an Omega Man: The Process

Joining Omega Psi Phi is not about popularity or social prestige—it is about honor, discipline, and responsibility.

The fraternity seeks men who are:

• College-educated (at least a bachelor’s degree)

• Men of high character and integrity

• Committed to the uplift of their community

• Willing to serve and lead

Prospective members go through an official Membership Selection Process (MSP), which includes interviews, background checks, and education on the fraternity’s history and values. While past pledging rituals have been controversial, Omega has moved toward a safe, respectful, and values-based intake process in line with national fraternity standards.

Facing the Challenges: Growth and Accountability

Like any long-standing organization, Omega Psi Phi has faced challenges—from hazing allegations to internal disagreements. Yet, it is the fraternity’s willingness to confront these issues head-on and evolve that keeps it strong.

In recent years, national leadership has taken clear steps to reform intake processes, promote mental health awareness, support professional development, and increase transparency. This commitment to continuous improvement is what keeps Omega relevant in a changing world.

Why Omega Still Matters Today

In a world filled with division, economic disparity, and cultural fragmentation, Omega Psi Phi remains an enduring source of unity, purpose, and hope. Young Black men face complex challenges—from systemic racism to identity crises—and Omega offers not just answers but a family, a legacy, and a mission.

The fraternity gives members the chance to:

• Develop leadership and public speaking skills

• Network with powerful and influential men

• Serve their communities with purpose

• Build lifelong friendships and support systems

• Pass on a powerful legacy to the next generation

The Future of Omega Psi Phi

As Omega approaches its second century, the fraternity is embracing technology, diversity of thought, entrepreneurship, global expansion, and social justice. Its members are running businesses, leading protests, mentoring youth, and building schools. The torch passed down from the Founders is still burning bright—and it's lighting the way for a new era of Black leadership and excellence.

There’s a powerful African proverb that says, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.”

Omega men go far—together.

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Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. is not just about colors, calls, or chants. It’s about purpose, power, and people. It’s about becoming more than you thought you could be and lifting others as you rise. In a world that constantly asks us who we are, Omega answers boldly: We are men. We are scholars. We are leaders. We are Omega.

Friendship is essential to the soul. Long live the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity.

Lateef Warnick is the founder of Onassis Krown. He currently serves as a Senior Healthcare Consultant in the Jacksonville FL area and is a Certified Life Coach, Marriage Counselor, Keynote Speaker and Author of "Know Thyself," "The Golden Egg" and "Wear Your Krown." He is also a former Naval Officer, Licensed Financial Advisor, Insurance Agent, Realtor, Serial Entrepreneur and musical artist A.L.I.A.S.