Jonathan A. Mason, Sr., International President of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc.
Nationwide — Jonathan A. Mason, Sr., International President of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., has issued the following statement:
“Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Incorporated stands in solidarity with the community of Orlando, Florida, and our country, as we mourn the tragic act of violence during which at least 100 people were shot, and 49 of those victims were brutally murdered on Sunday, June 12, 2016. Once again, our country is face to face with the realities of how to effectively address the issues of differences between races, religions and those whom society deems different, as well as what to do about the issue of gun ownership. This horrendous attack upon the LGBT community is more than a reminder that we must change our approaches to these issues—it is a clarion call to action!”“There are no words which can adequately describe the pain inflicted upon the victims of this latest act of destruction and their families; there is nothing which can provide logical answers as to why someone believes it is their right to destroy others in response to what they personally believe.”
“We live in a country founded upon the principles that each of its citizens is “endowed with certain unalienable rights . . .life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness”. Yet, there are those who believe it appropriate to deny certain members of our society these God-given rights.”
“Now is not the time for complacency; the future of our country is affected by the intolerance of a few who believe it to be their “right” to destroy anyone and everyone who don’t share their ideas and beliefs. As members of this Fraternity, we will not be interpreted as supporting such ideology, especially by being silent. We continue to answer the call to build on the legacy begun by our Founders, to promote the building of better communities through positive action.”
“As a fraternity founded on the principles of Brotherhood, Scholarship and Service, we are called upon to stand up and speak out on the issues which affect all of us. We must strengthen our commitment to working for better, safer and stronger communities. I ask you to join us in supporting the city of Orlando, Florida as it works to become stronger and better in spite of this tragedy. Prayer is always in order. We all must follow those prayers with actions to make a difference in our communities and our world.”
Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Incorporated is one of nine predominantly African American Greek-Lettered organizations, founded on January 9, 1914 at Howard University. Its Founders believed in the principles of Brotherhood, Scholarship and Service, which are exhibited in the Fraternity motto “Culture for Service and Service for Humanity”. Phi Beta Sigma has a membership of over 150,00 men in over 750 chapters throughout the continental United States, Africa, Asia and Europe. For more details, visit www.phibetasigma1914.org
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