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Omicron Phi Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Protocol and Etiquette Manual First Edition Adding Insight and Leverage on Supreme Brotherhood By Brother Martin H. LaMar (Rho Eta Lambda, 2002) With Influence from Brother Derrick Fordjour (Delta Chi, ’93)

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Omicron Phi Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

Protocol and Etiquette Manual First Edition

Adding Insight and Leverage on Supreme Brotherhood

By Brother Martin H. LaMar (Rho Eta Lambda, 2002)

With Influence from Brother Derrick Fordjour (Delta Chi, ’93)

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Omicron Phi Lambda Protocol and Etiquette Manual (Confidential)

Foreword

“Many are called, but few are chosen.” To be a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. is a privilege and an honor that not all men can proclaim - Nor should all men be worthy of being a member of our great fraternity. Once a man crosses “those burning sands” into Alphadom, the brother accepts a responsibility and obligation to uphold the Aims of our dear fraternity – “manly deeds, scholarship and love for all mankind.”

I am grateful to Brother Martin LaMar for initiating the first edition of the Omicron Phi Lambda Chapter Protocol and Etiquette Manual. Now more than ever before, we as “Men of Alpha” must carry ourselves and behave in a manner befitting of a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. It is my hope and desire that this Manual will ensure that the brothers of Omicron Phi Lambda Chapter forever uphold the high ideals of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity and forever “protect the brand” which our seven Jewels envisioned over 105 years ago.

Fraternally, Brother Corey E. Adams (Rho Delta, 1990) Omicron Phi Lambda President (2011-2013)

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Reflection

January 10, 2012

Brothers,

In the name of Brotherhood and the spirit of fraternity, I humbly submit what is my sincere effort to capture, in print, all the things a man sharing dual

membership and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated and Omicron Phi Lambda (OPL) should hold dear. From my perspective, this document

began its evolution on two dates: May 29, 1987 (Omicron Phi Lambda’s official date of origination) and December 17, 2009 (my first Omicron Phi

Lambda chapter meeting). As the author of Omicron Phi Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Protocol and Etiquette Manual (First

Edition), each of these dates is significant as they both highlight beginnings and struggle.

As each recipient of this manual should know, all too well, our chapter’s inception was nothing more than the desire of a few to go against the flow of

fraternal traffic and begin new trends actually rooted in traditions having begun in 1906. Stated differently, the core founders of our chapter wanted to

“get back to the basics”. Personally, this chapter offered me, at a time where I could not see the proverbial “forest for the trees”, the same “get back to

the basics” opportunity. Again, I highlight “beginnings” and “struggle”.

In creating this manual, I realized this theme would also serve as the focal point of the subsequent pages you currently hold within your hands or have

placed upon some surface. This manual covers things every member should have seen seconds, minutes, hours, or days after he decided Alpha Phi

Alpha was a critical and lifetime commitment capable of building and/or restoring his faith in the Holy Trinity and being the beacon of light when life

seems/seemed darkest. Simultaneously, this manual embodies the pain of having to stand firmly in opposition to those things having become

“acceptable” among many in our chapter and standing, seemingly and in actuality, alone. I will never claim to know what, I now understand to be the

pain, Carter G. Woodson felt in writing his most notable literary effort. No! However, with that noted, I do understand it had to be terribly frustrating

to actually write something with the hope it redirects obvious errors in thinking and activity.

From the time I opened my mouth in a chapter meeting, I knew there would be a day I would have to officially acknowledge I understand I rub some

people so completely wrong I would lose a popularity contest against myself. Yet, I also realize the hardest thing to do is reflect upon oneself while

posing in a group photo. Gentlemen, this is an effort to realign a group photo in need of some changes. I am not above Alpha or OPL, because I, too,

am IN this proverbial “photo”. If I know it is time to take a picture and your tie is off-center, am I not required to tell you the image you wish to project

IS NOT about to be captured because you are not ready? Of course, I am. I AM my Brother’s Keeper.

That noted, and again, I understand my personal comments may not ever win me a popularity contest, but I have never expressed a desire to enter, or

win, one either. Nonetheless, what follows are the protocols and procedures Alpha Phi Alpha and Omicron Phi Lambda are based upon and what is

required to ensure each is fortified by the characteristics and acts required for optimal efficiency and presentation. Should my actions and/or these

words offend you, I fully accept my role as the genesis and creator of your frustration. I have not run from confrontation, nor will I do so now.

Inasmuch, I stand behind my beliefs and remain able to address them and admit when, if, I am wrong or have erred. However, as the individual

charged with creating this manual I clearly state neither you or I are bigger than the brands we represent as members of this fraternity and chapter. I

offer no apologies for merely highlighting what this organization and chapter were created to represent and reminding everyone, including myself,

what is right and what is wrong.

Fraternally and Respectfully, I am…

Martin H. LaMar (Rho Eta Lambda, 2002)

Omicron Phi Lambda Recording Secretary (2010-2013)

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ACKNOWLEDGMENTS Etiquette and Protocol Committee

Brother Howard H. Kennedy (Beta Epsilon, 1950)

Brother Martin H. LaMar (Rho Eta Lambda, 2002)

Reviewers

Brother Corey E. Adams (Rho Delta, 1990)

Brother Jason S. Gaines (Delta Upsilon, 1999)

Southern Region Leadership

Brother James Crumel, Sr. (Gamma Mu Lambda, 1988)

Brother Xavier Jones (Delta Delta, 2009)

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated National Office

Brother Reverend Herman “Skip” Mason, Jr. (Iota, 1982)

Brother W. Douglass Lyle (Xi, 1997)

Influences

Jewel Brother Dr. Henry A. Callis (Alpha, 1906)

Jewel Brother Dr. Charles Henry Chapman (Alpha, 1906)

Jewel Brother Eugene K. Jones (Alpha, 1907*)

Jewel Brother George B. Kelly (Alpha, 1906)

Jewel Brother Nathaniel A. Murray (Alpha, 1906)

Jewel Brother Robert H. Ogle (Alpha, 1906)

Jewel Brother Vertner W. Tandy (Alpha, 1906)

Brother Sammie T. Daniel (Alpha Phi, 1967)

Brother Howard H. Kennedy (Beta Epsilon, 1950)

Brother Robert I. Cunningham (Beta Beta Lambda, 1995)

Brother C. Perry Halstead (Eta Lambda, 1985)

Brother Ronald Mangum (Beta Epsilon, 1977)

Brother Dr. Percy A. Mack (Delta Eta, 1970)

Brother George W. Adams (Iota, 1960)

Brother Charles S. Singleton (Alpha Phi, 1967)

Brother Dan A. Sims (Nu Mu, 1990)

Brother Sherman M. Lofton (Omicron Phi Lambda, 1995)

Brother Clyde W. Bolds (Theta Rho Lambda, 1968)

Brother Lewis J. Alston, Jr. (Zeta Pi, 1985)

Brother Donovan K. Kirkland (Beta Epsilon, 1989)

Brother Jason S. Gaines (Delta Upsilon, 1999)

Brother Corey E. Adams (Rho Delta, 1990)

Brother Reuben T. Brown (Omicron Phi Lambda, 2004)

Brother J. Kyle Bryant (Pi Gamma Lambda, 1997)

Brother Derrick E. Bell (Theta Iota, 1991)

EVERY Brother Who Wanted to Pay His Dues, but Could Not and Remained Involved

…And Every Deadbeat, Due or Non-Due Paying, and Inactive Brother EVER Initiated

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Table of Contents

Foreword Bro. President Corey E. Adams

Reflection Bro. Martin H. LaMar

Acknowledgements

Table of Contents

State of Georgia Graduate Chapter Listing

Section One Executive Summary

Section Two What It Means to be a Man of Omicron Phi Lambda and Alpha Phi Alpha

Section Three National and Chapter Protocols

Protocol One Attire

a. Alpha Attire and Formal Wear

1. Defined

2. When It Is Worn

b. Non-Alpha Attire Gatherings

1. Fraternity Meetings

a. Board Meeting

b. General Body Meeting

2. OPL Parties

2. Fourth of July Picnic

3. Annual Retreat

4. Omicron Phi Lambda Education Foundation Golf Tournament

5. Alpha Academy

Protocol Two Paraphernalia

a. Wearing (Apparel and Fraternity/Vendor Pins)

b. Official Badge

c. Vendor Pins

d. How to Wear Alpha Shirts, Hats, and Other Logo Wear and Jewelry

e. Disposition of Paraphernalia

Protocol Three Emblems and Insignia

a. Alpha Phi Alpha Coat of Arms/Fraternity Design Explained

b. Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Shield Explained

c. Omicron Phi Lambda Logo

d. Official Colors

e. Official Flower

f. Chapter Designation

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g. Registered and Trademarked Fraternal Symbols

h. Chapter Banner

i. Ritual

j. Jewel Designation

Protocol Four Fraternity Hymns, Songs, and Step Shows

a. The Official Fraternity Hymn

b. The Official Fraternity Prayer

c. The Official Sweetheart Song

d. The Official Alpha Phi Alpha Toast Song

e. Step Shows

Protocol Five Official Alpha Phi Alpha Meetings and Ceremonies

a. Types of Ceremonies and Meetings

b. Official Ceremonies and Events

c. Courtesies to Elected Officials

d. Listing of Officers in Official Programs and Websites

e. Representation

f. Receptions

g. Receiving Line

h. Holding and Assembly Rooms

i. The Dais

j. Formal One Tier Seating

k. Formal Two Tier Seating

l. Formal Theater-Style Seating

m. Hospitality and Social Amenities

n. Press Release for Official Public and Private Functions

o. Convention Guidelines for Brotherly Conduct

Protocol Six Electronic Communication and Posting

Protocol Seven Intake and Reclamation Greeting Protocol

Protocol Eight Greeting Protocol

Protocol Nine Guests

a. Board Meetings

b. Chapter Meetings

c. Service Projects

d. Alpha Academy

e. Parties and Formal Gatherings

Protocol Ten Alcohol and Drugs

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Protocol Eleven Enforcement

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State of Georgia Alumni/Graduate Chapters

Omicron Phi Lambda College Park/East Point, Georgia

Gamma Omicron Lambda Albany, Georgia

Eta Iota Lambda Athens, Georgia

Eta Lambda Atlanta, Georgia

Pi Gamma Lambda Atlanta, Georgia

Alpha Phi Lambda Augusta, Georgia

Rho Pi Lambda Carrolton, Georgia

Delta Iota Lambda Columbus, Georgia

Nu Mu Lambda Decatur, Georgia

Pi Eta Lambda Dublin, Georgia

Rho Kappa Lambda Duluth, Georgia

Gamma Sigma Lambda Fort Valley, Georgia

Theta Nu Lambda LaGrange, Georgia

Epsilon Beta Lambda Macon, Georgia

Omicron Mu Lambda Marietta, Georgia

Beta Phi Lambda Savannah, Georgia

Pi Iota Lambda Tifton, Georgia

Rho Sigma Lambda Stockbridge/Henry County, Georgia

Kappa Tau Lambda Valdosta, Georgia

Rho Mu Lambda Waycross, Georgia

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Section One

Executive Summary

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As trends within our country and world have embraced the opportunity to repel any and all things formal and structured,

so, too, have many members of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated and, among other chapters but specific to this

document, Omicron Phi Lambda. The dismissal in the adherence of rules and regulations has created a gap in protocol and

procedures in the most basic actions and customs. While Alpha Phi Alpha and the Omicron Phi Lambda chapter surely have

grown from their respective 1906 and 1987 inceptions, it is quite apparent and clear some very core and essential actions

have occurrences ranging from sporadic to no longer existent. Coupled with sporadic and non-existent occurrences are

blatant failures to adhere to protocol and unwritten “rules of thumb” having supplanted what is correct. With this, we

reach a very important crossroad in the identities of the overall organization and chapter and are forced to ask two very

important questions, “Where do we go from here?” and “Who do we become?”

At the 2011 annual Omicron Phi Lambda Chapter Retreat, Brother President Corey E. Adams (Rho Delta, 1990) recognized

the continuous expansion of this gap and sprang into action by officially creating a Protocol and Etiquette committee co-

chaired by Brothers Howard Kennedy (Beta Epsilon, 1950) and Martin LaMar (Rho Eta Lambda, 2002). As part of their

duties in implementing the fraternity’s true identity, the request for Omicron Phi Lambda’s own Protocol and Etiquette

Manual was made. After much thought, observation, and discussion; the manual is completed. Despite its completion, the

aforementioned questions remain prevalent…“Where do we go from here?” and “Who do we become?”

Even with a road map one can remain lost, should he not read it. Common-sensical rationality permits all parties involved

to realize nearly every member of Alpha Phi Alpha believes he is more than equipped to be the best representative of the

organization there ever was. Some individuals believe they are better equipped to be Alphas than the “7 Jewels”. After all,

in the minds of many, they have been dead for years and the scope of Alpha has changed and “transcended” time. Should

you be among the many believing they are The Alpha Elite, please start reading at the first page and continue until reaching

the end, then humble yourself and realize you are not bigger than the organization and you never will be. Whether or not

you realize or like the unyielding truth, Alpha Phi Alpha IS, to many extents, a controlled environment intended to place

structure among those committed to abide in a manner befitting refined, college-educated, and professional men.

This manual is not the law by any stretch of the imagination. It is merely a road map on how to conduct yourself as what

can be referred to as a “Modern Renaissance Man of Alpha Phi Alpha”. This Modern Renaissance Man of Alpha Phi Alpha is

one who realizes amidst his iPhone, iPad, Droid, BlackBerry, Skype, and Facebook and attending virtual meetings to

immediately communicate with individuals around the world lies a one-hundred five year old tradition rooted in scholarly,

gentlemanly, and professional distinction as tasteful as an aged wine or scotch. This distinction is immerse in a culture only

fit for a refined gentleman who, while well-versed on the issues of current and past eras, is entrenched in maintaining the

order and protocol of an elite SECRET society not fit for everyone having inquired about entry. Among those who dwell

within are the highest of integrity and strict adherence to the rules of etiquette befitting only a few. Do you meet this

challenge? If not, PLEASE take the time to refine yourself immediately and become what you are required to be to ensure

our beloved organization reclaims its role as the elite organization only rivaled by The Boule, of which members of Alpha

Phi Alpha also belong.

The future is now and it depends on you. For Omicron Phi Lambda to turn the corner, YOU have to read this AND practice

this document from cover to cover. Of course, like so many others things outside of death and taxes, this is completely

optional. Opting to discard this document as fodder and disregard is contents is to soil the image of an organization already

in serious jeopardy of becoming nothing more than a black man’s social club. You are forewarned, this document contains

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controversial subject matter. Should you be so deeply offended by the controversy, perhaps you are in direct violation of

the things most offensive and reprehensible. While each of you is self-perceived as perfect, please know it is hardly the

case and this will surely help you recognize, at least, one flaw you did not know existed. Humble yourself and do not be

foolish enough to believe the previous sentence is true, we all are in violation of this manual. To the readers of this manual

marching upward and onward to The Light, this manual is respectfully dedicated.

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Section Two

What It Means to be a Man

of Omicron Phi Lambda

Alpha Phi Alpha

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Aspiring to lead and display a refined, calming excellence amid the madness surrounding us, at all times. Striving to be

second to none, while realizing there may be times when we may not be the best, but never settling for a moment where

this becomes the rule, only the exception, and confidently knowing we are second best for but a short time. Continuous

evolution in a time where change is constant, while remaining committed to the fraternal traditions greater than us. Having

the ability to voraciously set the right example, while wrongs of a world led astray by those unaware of the excellence

seven innovative pioneers have place before us. Brotherhood to the highest level and the consistent remembrance it is

possible to thoroughly enjoy oneself while addressing the issues placed before us.

This summarizes the goals of 37 vision-led men (Seven Jewels and thirty Omicron Phi Lambda co-founders) to ascend to the

highest levels of our various professions and personal interests. It is a task for but a few highly scrutinized men worthy of

such a challenge. Unfortunately, as with many other things this life presents, pretenders find their way into their fold and

must be weeded out to ensure “The House” is secure. A traditional Alpha Man sets the standard for ALL upstanding men,

both those of Alpha Phi Alpha and those not. As men Omicron Phi Lambda, this standard is exceeded as our history directly

challenged what was seen as the model for Men of Alpha in the Metropolitan Atlanta area and changed its face forever.

As you read this manual’s pages and examine where you stand on the road to superior representation of Alpha Phi Alpha as

a member of Omicron Phi Lambda, perform an honest self-assessment and determine if you have the fortitude and desire

to place yourself on the level required to represent both in the manner thirty-seven bold men intended.

“We wanted more than the traditional American college fraternity. Our job ahead required a fellowship which

would embrace those millions outside the “Talented Tenth”. We realize that the leaders of any people emerge

chiefly from the best trained, best oriented members of the group.”

-Jewel Brother Dr. Henry Arthur Callis, 1950

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Section Three

National and Chapter

Protocols

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Protocol One - Attire

Alpha Attire

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Men carry themselves in a gentlemanly manner at all times. “Alpha Attire” is solely defined as the following, with no deviation:

1.) A dark suit (black, navy blue, and charcoal grey only) 2.) A long-sleeved, clean, pressed dress shirt (cuffs are pressed flat without creases) 3.) A conservative tie (preferably black, gold or combination, thereof) 4.) A belt (the belt should ALWAYS be the same color as the shoes) 5.) Dark socks (socks should ALWAYS be the same color as the suit) 6.) Black dress shoes (shoes MUST be shined)

**Unless stated otherwise, Alpha Attire (which is identical to the standard for professional attire) is required for all official Alpha Phi Alpha functions.**

Alpha Attire is required at the following:

1.) All Conventions (District, Regional, and National) [unless otherwise stated] 2.) All Intake Related Events 3.) Founder’s Day Events (unless otherwise stated) 4.) Omicron Phi Lambda Founder’s Day Programs 5.) Any Event Designated by an Alpha Elected Official (including Chapter Presidents), Majority Chapter Votes, and

Omicron Phi Lambda Chapter Founder Requests 6.) Omega Services

Formal Wear (as it pertains to Alpha Phi Alpha) Formal Wear is required at Omicron Phi Lambda Balls and Specifically-Designated Events.

Formal Wear may consist of the following:

1.) Men

a. A Dinner Jacket (i.e. Tuxedo Coat)

b. Black Trousers (with one satin stripe on leg out-seams)

c. Clean, Pressed White Shirt (stiff wing or soft folded collar) with either a placketed, pleated,

piqué, or ruffled front

d. A black satin bow or traditional tie

e. A black evening waistcoat or a cummerbund

f. Black, patent leather or calf Oxford shoes

g. Cuff links and shirt stud accessories

2.) Ladies

a. Cocktail dresses

b. Little black dresses (“Little” does not imply your date’s dress should reveal her assets, this is a

formal term)

c. Evening gowns

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Non-Alpha Attire Gatherings

*Fraternity Meeting Apparel may consist of the following (unless otherwise stated):

1.) Alpha Attire

2.) Suits of colors beyond that of those included in Alpha Attire

3.) Casual Attire (shirt tails are to be tucked at all times)

a. Open-Collar Shirts (with the tail tucked)

b. Sweaters

c. Polo shirts

d. Slacks

e. Pressed Jeans

f. Clean Athletic Shoes

g. Dress Shoes (shined)

h. Casual Shoes (shined and/or clean)

Board Meeting Apparel

Board Meeting Apparel may consist of the following (unless otherwise stated):

1.) Alpha Attire

2.) Suits of colors beyond that of those included in Alpha Attire

3.) Casual Attire (shirt tails are to be tucked at all times)

a. Open-Collar Shirts (with the tail tucked)

b. Sweaters

c. Polo shirts

d. Slacks

e. Pressed Jeans

f. Clean Athletic Shoes

g. Dress Shoes (shined)

h. Casual Shoes (shined and/or clean)

4.) Sweatpants and Sweatshirts

5.) T-shirts (tasteful and clean)

6.) Shorts

Omicron Phi Lambda Parties (Christmas specifically)

Omicron Phi Lambda Party Apparel may consist of the following (unless otherwise stated):

1.) Alpha Attire

2.) Suits of colors beyond that of those included in Alpha Attire

3.) Blazers

4.) Slacks

5.) Dress Shoes

6.) Casual Shoes

7.) Open-Collar Shirts (with the tail tucked)

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8.) Sweaters

Fourth of July Picnic

Fourth of July Picnic Apparel may consist of the following (unless otherwise stated):

1.) Alpha Phi Alpha T-shirts

2.) Shorts

3.) Clean Athletic Shoes

4.) Beach Shoes

5.) Hats

6.) Short-sleeved Shirts

7.) Slacks

Omicron Phi Lambda Annual Retreat

Omicron Phi Lambda Annual Retreat Apparel may consist of the following (unless otherwise stated):

1.) Alpha Phi Alpha T-shirts

2.) Shorts

3.) Clean Athletic Shoes

4.) Beach Shoes

5.) Hats

6.) Short-sleeved Shirts

7.) Slacks

Omicron Phi Lambda Golf Tournament

Omicron Phi Lambda Golf Tournament Apparel may consist of the following (unless otherwise stated):

1.) Alpha Phi Alpha Polo Shirts (long- and short-sleeved)

2.) Sweater Vest with Turtlenecks Underneath

3.) Long-Sleeved Golf Shirts

4.) Short-Sleeved Golf Shirts

5.) Slacks

6.) Golf Visors

7.) Golf (Baseball-style) Hats

8.) Braided-Brimmed Golf Hats

9.) Golf Shoes

10.) Cleaned Golf Clubs

11.) Cleaned Golf Bags

Alpha Academy

Alpha Academy Apparel may consist of the following (unless otherwise stated):

1.) Alpha Phi Alpha Shirts

2.) College or University Shirts

3.) Sweaters

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4.) Open-Collared Shirts

5.) Jeans

6.) Slacks

7.) Dress Shoes

8.) Clean Athletic Shoes

9.) Casual Shoes

10.) Alpha Phi Alpha Jackets

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Protocol Two - Paraphernalia

Wearing of Official Alpha Pins/Badges

-The Official Badge is defined as: a.) The Life Member Pin b.) The Twenty-Five Year Pin c.) The Fifty Year Pin

Wearing of Official Badge

-The Official Badge is ONLY to be worn over the heart (located on the left-side of your body if looking down at your own chest) of a Brother. It is placed on the right corner pocket of the suit jacket or blazer. -The Official Badge and other official pins are only worn when a brothers is wearing a tie and a suit jacket, blazer or sports coat. **Other Fraternity pins should be worn on the left lapel of a suit jacket, blazer or sports coat and placed inside the lapel button slot The Official Badge and other official pins are only worn when a brothers is wearing a tie and a suit jacket, blazer or sports coat.

Vendor Pins

-Brothers will find a variety of vendor pins on the market. These pins should only be purchased from vendors certified by the Corporate Headquarters of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Brothers should always ask vendors to display their official Alpha vendor license prior to any purchase. A listing of those certified vendors are also available at www.AlphaPhiAlpha.net. Vendors found selling Alpha paraphernalia without proper license should be referred to the National Headquarters. -Brothers should inspect each pin prior to purchase to assure that it is graphically correct and in good taste.

-Only limited jewelry is approved by the fraternity to incorporate the “Fraternity Shield”. Any vendor found to be incorporating the “Fraternity Shield” in a clothing article or jewelry should be reported to the Corporate Headquarters of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. NOTE: Only the Life Membership, 25-year and 50-year pins, the Signet Ring (Style #1146) and the Alpha Phi Alpha Official Ring (Style #4044B) are approved by the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. to incorporate the official shield of the fraternity. These pins are worn on the left lapel of a suit jacket, blazer or sports coat.

-These pins should never be worn by a non-Alpha.

How to Wear Alpha Shirt, Hats and Other Logo Wear and Jewelry

-Alpha paraphernalia should never be worn or carried by a non-Alpha and is always worn in a respectful manner. It is destroyed by burning (if weathered, torn, or in disrepair), given to another brother, or returned to the local chapter of the National Office upon the transfer of a brother to the Omega Chapter.

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-Alpha men are always respectful of the name Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. or its letters AФA. Therefore, when entering public clubs, places of drinking, debauchery, etc., Alpha men will respect their colors by refrain from wearing Alpha paraphernalia, if possible

-Alpha Men always wear their Alpha hats directly forward. Alpha Men always look forward, not backwards or to the side.

-Alpha men do not wear the letters “AΦA” below their waist or place the symbols on items that may become soiled (i.e. sweatpants, underwear, stadium seats, door mats, soles of socks or shoes, etc. It should also not be placed on items such as golf towels, handkerchiefs, etc.)

-Chapters are prohibited from having their chapter letters in “Red” on chapter jackets, sweaters or websites. Such a practice can be interpreted as meaning “bloody” and can be misinterpreted in cases of legal action.

-The general rule is, “Don’t wear Alpha paraphernalia in a manner that would offend or would not uphold the Name of Alpha.”

Disposition of Paraphernalia

Section 10.3-Property of the General Organization, Constitution and By-Laws of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. states: “All property of the General Organization transmitted to the custody of the Chapter (or Brother) for its use, as provided herein, shall remain the property of the General Organization subject to recall or removal in the event of the Chapter's suspension or deactivation. The Chapter's officers shall have the absolute responsibility and obligation to maintain the custody and control over the General Organization's property when so requested by the General Organization or any Committee having authority to require same pursuant to this Constitution.”

1.) Each Brother is personally responsible for protecting the privacy of Alpha Phi Alpha Paraphernalia: a. Once initiated, each Brother should discuss the disposition of their Alpha paraphernalia

with their loved ones in the event of their demise. b. Part of any Brother’s estate planning should be the designation of an Alpha Brother to

receive his paraphernalia or instructions for his loved ones to contact the local chapter for disposition.

2.) Brothers should be vigilant in the disposal of unusable paraphernalia. a. Once paraphernalia is no longer usable, the material should be destroyed by burning. b. The exception to this rule is the Official Badge, Life Member Pin, Twenty-Five Year Pin, and

Fifty-Year Pin. These items must be returned to Corporate Headquarters or given to a

member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. The disposition of these official insignias should

be included on the Notice of Initiation into the Omega Chapter.

3.) The local Chapter or Chapter Advisor shall be responsible for retrieving paraphernalia after a Brother enters Omega Chapter:

a. Thirty days (30) after a Brother enters Omega Chapter, the local chapter or chapter advisor should send a letter to the family inquiring about the disposition of paraphernalia. It is hoped that the Chapter President, Chapter Advisor and/or the Chapter Chaplin would have

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had some prior conversations with the family immediately prior to and after the Omega Service. A sample letter maybe provided upon request.

b. If there is no response from the family in thirty days (30), the local chapter president/chapter advisor should contact the family, verbally.

c. NOTE: The family should not be harassed in any way. If the family is not responsive or hostile, simply drop the issue.

d. Once used paraphernalia is received, it should be added to the chapter’s archives, sent to the Corporate Headquarters or disposed of by burning.

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Protocol Three – Emblems and Insignia

The Name of Alpha Phi Alpha and the Greek letters “AФA” are registered and trademarked symbols of the national organization. All brothers should respect and become familiar with the purpose and use of these symbols.

Alpha Phi Alpha Coat of Arms/Fraternity Design

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Introduced at the 36th General Convention in Kansas City, Missouri in December 1950 by Brother John W. Fleming.

The Coat of Arms/Fraternity Designed Explained:

Crest – On an esquire’s helmet and wreath of the colors two (2) torches diagonally.

*An Esquires Helmet- The helmet used is that of the lowest order of fighting man in the days of chivalry. This

means democracy, and the fact the visor is down suggests secrecy or readiness to defend the principles of the

Fraternity.

*The Wreath of Colors- The twisted rope just above the helmet is the conventionalized wreath presented to a

knight by hos lady as a reward for victory in combat.

*The Crest- The torches are placed diagonally to form a cross indicating the willingness of its member to not only

carry the torch of freedom and enlightenment, but also the willingness to sacrifice for these principles whenever

necessary.

Mantling (Double Sable)-This is the lacy, fluttering design at the side of the shield and emanating from the back of the

helmet. It is conventionalized representation of the mantle or the cloak which the warrior wore to protect himself when in

full armor from the rays of the sun or from extreme cold.

The use of two sables indicates black and old gold.

Motto- Alpha Phi Alpha in upper case Greek letters

Fess- the seven turrets of a tower along the center of the design, which represent the Seven Jewels and indicate its

members are united in a common purpose and willing to defend and do everything within their power to further the

interest of the fraternity.

The Modern Interpretation of the Coat of Arms is the insignia is defended by the principles of men who value manly deeds,

scholarship, and love for all mankind. They are willing to remain united too defend these principles with everything within

their power.

Fraternity Design and Coat of Arms Rules and Regulations

The “Fraternity Design” is the official coat-of-arms of the Fraternity. It is sometime referred as “the Coat of Arms” and “the

Crest.”

A complete description of the design is contained in the Ritual and should never be shared with a non-member. The “Fraternity Design” may be worn on rings, sweetheart pins and other small jewelry, sweaters, fraternity house equipment, etc. The “Fraternity Design” may be used on personal stationary, personal business cards, etc.

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Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Shield Explained

Symbol Meaning

1.) Dove Peace

2.) Torch Enlightenment

3.) 7 Stars Jewels

4.) Sphinx Silence

5.) Faces Strength

6.) 3 Pyramids Three Stages of Alpha’s Development

7.) 1906 Founding Year of the Fraternity

The “Fraternity Shield” is the official emblem of the Fraternity. A complete description of the design is contained in the Ritual and should never be shared with a non-member. The “Fraternity Shield” should never be worn on rings, sweetheart pins and other small jewelry, sweaters, fraternity house equipment, etc. Only the Life Membership, 25-year and 50-year pins, the Signet Ring (Style #1146) and the Alpha Phi Alpha Official Ring (Style #4044B) are approved by the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. to incorporate the official shield of the fraternity. Any pin or paraphernalia other than those mentioned above should not be worn by a brother, and should be disposed of. Any vendor found to be incorporating the “Fraternity Shield” in a pin or other paraphernalia should be reported to the Corporate Headquarters of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

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The “Fraternity Shield” may be used on official fraternity programs, stationary, flyers, etc. The “Fraternity Shield” should never be used on personal stationary, personal business cards, etc. The “Fraternity Shield” should never be used by organizations other than Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. This includes non-profit or corporate entities owned by a local chapter

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Omicron Phi Lambda Logo

The Omicron Phi Lambda Logo, created and copyrighted by Brother J. Kyle Bryant (Pi Gamma Lambda, 1997), may be freely

used by Omicron Phi Lambda Brothers only. This logo may not be mass duplicated by anyone, with the exception of Brother

Bryant, nor sold beyond Omicron Phi Lambda. Utilization of the logo for personal gain is also prohibited. Utilization of the

logo by the Omicron Phi Lambda Education Foundation (OPLEF) is permitted.

*Mass Duplication is defined as “the creation of more than one item and any variation of it utilizing the

aforementioned logo for the sole purposed of use by the Omicron Phi Lambda Brother intending to utilize it”.

This definition may not be considered pliable. Should this definition not be understood, you are to consult with

Brother Bryant PRIOR to utilization.

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Official Colors

*Black and Old Gold

-The official paint code numbers for Alpha are:

Gold Metallic – PM5872

Old Gold – PMS131

Black – 000000

Official Flower

*Yellow Rose

-When ordering flowers for an Alpha function, funeral sprays, Fraternity Queens and Sweethearts, etc. the

Yellow Rose should be included in the bouquet

-When cost is a consideration, other yellow flowers may be substituted or combined with the Yellow Rose

Fraternity and Chapter Designation

-The Name of Alpha Phi Alpha and the Greek letters “AФA” are registered and trademarked symbols of the national organization. -Only duly initiated brothers of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity are authorized to wear the symbols of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

1. These symbols cannot be added to any object that will be worn by a non-Alpha 2. These symbols cannot be combined with other paraphernalia that may be worn by non-

Alpha (e.g. intramural competition tee shirts. Where it is appropriate to represent Alpha Phi Alpha in these cases, the Chapter should consider utilizing the word “Alpha”, “Alpha South”, “Alpha East”, etc.)

-When utilized with the Name, Alpha Phi Alpha, the chapter designation (i.e. Iota Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.) belongs to Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and not the local chapter. -An official chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. shall not utilize any prefix in front of or behind their designation that will defame the Name of Alpha Phi Alpha.

**Prefixes such as -“Bloody” -Gangster” -“Merciless” -“Notorious” -“Big Bad” shall not be added to the description of any chapter designation. Such a practice can be misinterpreted in cases of legal action.

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-The chapter designation shall never be displayed in red or school colors on articles of clothing, in print, or on the web. Such a practice can be interpreted as symbolic of the term “bloody” and can be misinterpreted in cases of legal action. -The symbols of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. shall not be displayed on the body of a brother through physical branding, tattoos, etc.

Registered and Trademarked Fraternal Symbols

-All fraternal symbols, including the Name Alpha Phi Alpha, the letters “AΦA”, “06”, and “The Sphinx” are registered and trademarked symbols of the national organization.

Anyone wishing to use these symbols for any purpose must receive express written permission from the Corporate Headquarters. Authorized chapters and financially active brothers of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. are automatically granted permission to utilize these symbols for non-commercial use. -Any chapter wishing to create personal or chapter commercial marketing ventures must have the corporate office to issue a formal contract. Failure to have such a contract issued by Corporate Headquarters could put the chapter in violation of federal and state laws. All symbols of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., including but not limited to the Centennial Logo are protected by federal trademark law. Brothers are authorized to wear fraternity letters and symbols, but are not authorized to sell or trade them. Unauthorized use of the Fraternity's symbols will violate numerous state and federal statutes. For example, any unauthorized use violates 15 U.S.C. § 1114(a) for trademark infringement; 15 U.S.C. § 1125(a) for false designation of origin and false representation; 15 U.S.C. § 1125(a) for trademark dilution; common law and statutory injury to business reputation; common law trademark infringement; common law unfair competition; and unjust enrichment. Federal law also allows the Fraternity to recover its cost and attorneys' fees for any resulting lawsuit to enforce it rights. In addition to federal and state trademark violation, unauthorized uses may also violate the federal Copyright Act. This Act provides for monetary damages that may be measured either by (1) any actual damages suffered by the Fraternity plus any profits the unauthorized user have made as a result of the infringement, or (2) statutory damages. 17 U.S.C. § 504. Statutory damages can be as high as $150,000 per work infringed. In addition, the Fraternity may be entitled to recover its full costs, including attorneys' fees, for prosecuting a civil action against unauthorized users under the Act.17 U.S.C. § 505. Unauthorized users should also be aware that willful copyright infringement done for commercial advantage or private financial gain is considered a criminal act pursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 2319 and 17 U.S.C. § 506. Anyone violating these rights will be prosecuted. Remember, be it a cap, a bottle of wine, or appearance in a movie, remember it is easier to get permission than forgiveness. Please report any suspected unauthorized use to the National Office of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. or to: [email protected].

**Any reproduction of these symbols must include the registered marks ™ or

®.**

Chapter Banner

-An Official Chapter Banner may be ordered from the National Office utilizing the Chapter Banner Order Form

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-The Chapter Banner will include:

1) Fraternity Name 2) Fraternity Shield 3) Fraternity’s Founding Year 4) Seven Stars 5) Chapter Designation (Omicron Phi Lambda) 6) City and State 7) Month, Date and Year of Founding (May 29, 1987)

**The Chapter Banner should be displayed on all official Chapter Functions.**

Ritual -The Ritual of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. includes the official secrets of the fraternity.

-The Ritual should be maintained as outlined within the Ritual.

-Brothers should not quote any parts of portions of the Ritual in public.

-The person in possession of the chapter’s ritual should be identified at all times and that individual should keep the ritual secured with one other chapter Brother having accessibility, even if the ritual is in the Brother’s home.

Jewel Designation -The founders of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. are referred to as “Jewels”.

-Chapter founders and not to be referred to as Jewels. They are “Founders”.

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Protocol Four – Fraternity Hymn, Prayer, and Songs

The Official National Fraternity Hymn

Verse 1 In our dear, A Phi A, fraternal spirit binds All the noble, the true and courageous.

Manly deeds, scholarship, and love for all Mankind, are the aims of our dear Fraternity.

Chorus

Alpha Phi Alpha; the pride of our hearts and loved by us dearly art thou.

We cherish thy precepts, thy banner shall be raised. To thy glory, thy honor, and renown.

Verse 2 (Solo Only)

We hold ever aloft, noble ideals and aims, carrying out earth's and heaven's grand command.

Our true hearts ever strive, success' goal to gain. That our Fraternity's praises may be sung.

Chorus (All)

Alpha Phi Alpha; the pride of our hearts and loved by us dearly art thou.

We cherish thy precepts, thy banner shall be raised. To thy glory, thy honor, and renown.

Verse 3

College days swiftly pass, imbued with mem'ries fond. And the recollection slowly fades away.

Our renowned A Phi A and dear fraternal bond. May they ever abide and with us stay.

Chorus (All)

Alpha Phi Alpha; the pride of our hearts and loved by us dearly art thou.

We cherish thy precepts, thy banner shall be raised. To thy glory, thy honor, and renown.

Official Fraternity Hymn Protocol and Rules

-The official national fraternity hymn should be sung majestically with eyes open and heads raised. -Brothers will always stand when singing the hymn (unless physically challenged). Brothers will also stand if an instrumental version of the hymn is played, even if it is on a video or CD.

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-Brothers will always remove their hats or any hat-like garments when singing this hymn. -Brothers should stand in a circle with their left arm folded over their right arm. Each Brother will join hands by intertwining their small fingers. Please note that no one other than a Brother is allowed inside the inner circle of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. -There is no swaying when singing the hymn. -While a brother may be designated to direct the hymn, he should not attempt to add content, style, flare, or modify it from its original refrain.

-This song is sung at the end of all official fraternity meetings and ceremonies. This song is immediately succeeded by the Fraternity Prayer (see Official Fraternity Prayer below). -When singing the hymn, NO member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. shall be excluded from the circle. -When the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. hymn is sung in the presence of a Brother, he should not exclude himself from the circle. -Brothers may substitute the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Hymn for the Sweetheart song. However, when this is done, brothers should form a semi-circle as no one other than a Brother is allowed inside the inner circle of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. If you are at a wedding, the bride is permitted to be in the middle of a semi-circle, but NEVER a full circle. -Should a Brother come to the circle after the Hymn has begun, he should wait for a suitable moment to join the circle (during the chorus between verses) thus minimizing any disruption. -Should a large number of Brothers come to the circle, it is optional to form an outer second circle around the first circle. -Brothers are reminded that the words to the chorus are “We cherish thy precepts, thy banner shall be raised.” not “We’ll”. -When singing the hymn, NO one should attempt to add content, style, flare, or modify it from its original refrain. -The Second Verse is ONLY sang by a soloist, if there is no soloist, ONLY sing the FIRST and THIRD verses.

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The Official Fraternity Prayer

Oh Lord, May the true spirit of fraternity, rule our hearts, guide our thoughts and control our

lives so that we may become through thee, servants of all…AMEN.

Official Fraternity Hymn Protocol and Rules

-This is the official prayer of the fraternity. -When recited, Brothers are to remove any hats or hat-like garments, bow their heads and close their eyes. -The official prayer should be recited at the end of the singing of the Official National Fraternity Hymn of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. -In cases where time will not permit the singing of the Official Fraternity Hymn in official meetings, the fraternity prayer may be recited.

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The Official Sweetheart Song

You’re the Sweetheart of Alpha Phi Alpha

We love you more each day You’re dear to all who wear the pin

From you we will never stray

We love you, yes, we love you For more than words can say

So we’ll raise our voices loud and strong To the darling dream girl

Sweetheart of A Phi A

You’re so lovely so like an angel You wear the black and gold

Your charm, your grace, the ecstasy Are like sweet days of old

(SOLO) Now dear Swear heart of Alpha Phi Alpha

We end our song to you We’ll dream of you the whole night long

A girl so rare so true

(ALL) We love you, yes, we love you For-ever and a day

So we’ll raise our voices loud and strong To the darling dream girl

Sweetheart of A Phi A Official Sweetheart Song Protocol and Rules

- Brothers may substitute the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Hymn for the Sweetheart song. However, when this is done, brothers should form a semi-circle and no one other than a Brother is allowed inside the inner circle of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Brothers should learn the Sweetheart song! -This song may be utilized to salute a bride of a Brother on her wedding day. In this case, the bride sits in the center and the Brothers will form a semi-circle to sing this designated song. Brothers may substitute the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Hymn for the Sweetheart song. However, if the Fraternal Hymn is used, Brothers should form a semi-circle as no one other than a Brother is allowed inside the inner circle of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

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The Official Alpha Phi Alpha Toast Song

Like rare old wines

you'll never die. We sing thy praise as years

go by. And these are words we'll

always say A SONG, A TOAST, FOR A PHI A.

Though we may part when school is done,

We'll cherish mem'ries days of fun. Again, we'll meet and we will say. A SONG, A TOAST, FOR A PHI A.

So drink dear friend a toast we'll give,

To A Phi A, long may she live. The memories live though we’re away

A SONG, A TOAST, FOR A PHI A.

Official Toast Protocol and Rules

-This song is sung to provide a toast to another Brother(s).

-This song may be performed at any time.

-This song is appropriate to salute a Brother on his wedding day.

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Protocol Five – Official Alpha Phi Alpha Meetings and Ceremonies

General i. Ceremonies are a critical part of what we are as Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. It is through such

that we are made into Alpha and transitioned into the Omega Chapter. It is imperative that such ceremonies are conducted with the greatest degree of professionalism, decorum and adherence to the standard policies and procedures of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

Types of Ceremonies and Meeting i. There are two types of ceremonies and meetings: public and private.

ii. A public ceremony or meeting is one in which the general public is invited to participate. In those cases, local and community leaders as well as members of the Pan-Hellenic Community may be invited to participate. Protocol regarding Pan-Hellenic leaders can be found at http://www.nphchq.org/resources.htm.

iii. A public ceremony or meeting can be made private by a majority vote of the Brotherhood conducting the event.

iv. A private ceremony or meeting is one in which only members of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. are invited to attend. Except for an Executive Committee meeting of a National, Regional, District or Chapter organization, no member of Alpha, with appropriate credentials and password, may be barred admittance from such meeting. A private ceremony cannot be designated public.

v. In public meetings, when an active General President or Past General President (s) of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. enters the room or meeting or is introduced for the “first time”, all brothers should stand in respect. Standing is only required for the highest-ranking elected Alpha Officer (General President; Past-General President; Regional Vice President; Assistant Regional Vice President; elected National Officers) present at an official function. NOTE: This applies to the District Directors when functions are held in his District and the Chief Dean of Membership Development during Cluster.

vi. Events designated as private cannot be designated public.

Official Ceremonies and Events i. The Official Ceremonies and Events of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. shall include but not be

limited to: a. Chapter Meeting (See Recording Secretary for Official Protocol. The Procedures are found in

the Alpha University Chapter and Officer Development Guide)

b. Chartering Ceremonies (See Recording Secretary for Official Protocol. The Procedures are found in the Alpha University Chapter and Officer Development Guide)

c. Installation of Officers (See Recording Secretary for Official Protocol.)

d. Chapter Anniversaries (See Recording Secretary for Official Protocol.)

e. Miss Black and Gold Pageants (See Recording Secretary for Official Protocol. Procedures

may be found in the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Awards and Achievement Handbook at www.alphaphialpha.net )

f. Founders Day Observance (See Recording Secretary for Official Protocol.)

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g. Omega Service (Official Procedures outline are included in the Ritual)

h. Initial Membership Development (See Recording Secretary for Official Protocol. The Official Procedures is found in the Standing Order, Dated August 1999)

i. Public Programs (See Recording Secretary for Official Protocol.) j. Brotherhood Acknowledgements (See Recording Secretary for Official Protocol.)

ii. The official attire for any official Alpha Phi Alpha public or private function is “Alpha Attire” unless

otherwise specified. Alpha Attire shall be defined as a suit, long sleeved shirt and tie.

Courtesies to Elected Officers of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. i. The highest-ranking elected Alpha Officer (General President; Past-General President; Regional Vice

President; Assistant Regional Vice President; elected National Officers) present at an official function should at all times be granted the respect, courtesies and amenities befitting the office. NOTE: This applies to the District Directors when functions are held in his District and the Chief Pharaoh during Intake. In cases where the spouse of the elected Alpha Officer is present, she should be recognized, as well.

ii. The highest-ranking elected Alpha Officer at an official function should always be staffed as he moves about an official function. Staffing is defined as a brother(s) who is assigned to escort the Alpha Officer as he proceeds throughout the official function.

iii. The staffer should precede the Alpha Officer into each official event, gain the attention of the Chair

of the function or the Sergeant-At-Arms and announce that the Alpha Officer is about to enter. In no cases should an Alpha Officer suddenly appear in an official function without the Chair or Sergeant-At-Arms being notified. In cases where the staffer informs the Sergeant-At-Arms, the Sergeant-At-Arms should immediately notify the Chair of the meeting.

iv. When visiting a particular location where an Alpha Chapter (s) is located, the Alpha Officer should

notify the appropriate Chapter President (s) of the date and time of his visit. This will include any official visit, i.e. speeches, discipline hearing, program participation, etc.

v. Due recognition and respect should be shown to Alpha Officers in the following sequence:

a. General President b. Past General President (s) (In descending numerical order) c. The Five Regional Vice-Presidents (in Regional Alpha Order) d. The Five Assistant Regional Vice President (s) (in Regional Alpha Order) e. The Immediate Past Regional Vice-President (s) f. The Comptroller g. The General Treasurer h. The General Counsel i. The Executive Director j. National Standing Committee Chairs (in Alpha Order) k. The District Director l. The Past District Director m. The Area Director n. The Chapter President

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o. The Past Chapter President (s) p. Past National, Regional, District, Area and Chapter Elected Officers

vi. Rules regarding National Pan-Hellenic Members attendance at public events can be found at

http://www.nphchq.org/resources.htm .

vii. All assembled should always rise and receive the highest ranking officially elected Alpha Officer or a Past General President when he first enters a room during an official function (provided he is the highest ranking officer at the function or the function is in his territory, i.e. District Director during District Conferences.)

The Officer has the right to ask the brothers to “KEEP YOUR SEATS” in cases where he does not wish for them to stand.

The Officer should always issue the ‘KEEP YOUR SEATS” command when he enters a room in the middle of a meal; a formal presentation or speech or other occasions where the standing of brothers would interrupt the flow of the meeting.

Listing of Officers in Official Programs and on Web Sites i. Due recognition and respect should be shown to Alpha Officers on Official Programs and Official

Websites in the following sequence:

a. General Organization i. General Officers

1. General President 2. Immediate Past General President 3. General Treasurer 4. General Comptroller 5. General Counsel 6. Director of Conventions 7. Historian 8. Chief Parliamentarian

ii. Presidential Assistants

1. Senior Special Assistant to the General President 2. Special Assistant to the General President 3. Administrative Assistant to the General President 4. Assistants to the General President 5. Protocol Chief

iii. Regional Vice Presidents

1. Eastern Vice President 2. Midwestern Vice President 3. Southern Vice President 4. Southwestern Vice President 5. Western Vice President

iv. Regional Assistant Vice Presidents

1. Eastern Assistant Vice President 2. Midwestern Assistant Vice President 3. Southern Assistant Vice President

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4. Southwestern Assistant Vice President 5. Western Assistant Vice President

v. National Foundation

1. Building Foundation 2. Education Foundation

vi. National Chairmen & Coordinators

1. In Alphabetical Order

vii. Corporate Headquarters Management Team 1. Executive Director 2. Director of Communications 3. Director of Educational Activities (Education Foundation) 4. Director of Membership Services 5. Accounting Information Specialist 6. Communications Coordinator/Specialist 7. Membership Coordinator (Eastern & Western Regions) 8. Membership Coordinator (Southern Region) 9. Membership Coordinator (Midwestern & Southwestern Regions)

b. Regional Organization i. Regional Officers

1. Regional Vice President 2. Assistant Regional Vice President 3. Immediate Past Regional Vice President 4. Regional Secretary 5. Regional Treasurer 6. Regional Comptroller 7. Regional General Counsel

8. Regional Historian 9. Regional Parliamentarian 10. Regional Chaplin 11. Regional Associate Editor to The Sphinx™

ii. Regional Vice President Assistants

1. Regional Executive Director 2. Regional Chairman of Protocol

iii. District Directors

1. Listed in Alphabetical Order

iv. Assistant District Directors 1. Listed in Alphabetical Order

vi. Committee Chairs

1. In Alphabetical Order

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c. District Organization i. District Officers

1. District Director 2. Assistant District Director 3. Immediate Past District Director 4. District Secretary 5. District Treasurer 6. District Comptroller 7. District General Counsel 8. District Historian 9. District Parliamentarian 10. District Chaplin 11. District Associate Editor to The Sphinx™

ii. District Assistants 1. District Executive Director 2. District Chairman of Protocol

iii. Area Directors

1. Listed in Alphabetical Order

iv. Assistant Area Directors 1. Listed in Alphabetical Order

vi. Committee Chairs

1. In Alphabetical Order

d. Chapter Organization i. Chapter Officers

1. President 2. Immediate President 3. Vice President 4. Treasurer 5. Financial Secretary 6. Associate Editor to the Sphinx™ 7. Chaplin 8. Historian 9. Director of Educational Activities 10. Dean of Membership Development 11. Parliamentarian 12. Protocol Chairman

vi. Committee Chairs

1. In Alphabetical Order

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Representation i. The General President is the official spokesperson and representative of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity,

Inc. ii. Upon the initial entrance or introduction of the General President at an official fraternal function, a

public meeting, or any other public function, members should rise in recognition of the Office. iii. Every effort should be made to ensure that all courtesies are extended to include complimentary

registration or admittance (where appropriate), housing, and all necessary transportation as deemed appropriate.

iv. The Past General Presidents should be afforded the same courtiers as the current sitting General President.

v. The Regional Vice-President (RVP) and the Assistant Regional Vice President (ARVP) are the official representatives of their respective Region. During Regional functions, the RVP and ARVP should be extended the same courtesies; recognition and services accorded the General President.

vi. The District Director (DD) and the Assistant District Director (ADD) are the official representatives of their respective District. During District functions, the DD and ADD should be extended the same courtesies; recognition and services accorded the General President.

Receptions i. The local Chapter(s) or host Region, to mark the visit of the General President, should host a

Welcome Reception. ii. Local, County and State dignitaries (i.e., Mayor, Councilman, Governor or Legislators) should be

invited to participate in the reception. iii. Local dignitaries should be encouraged to make appropriate presentations (e.g., key to the city,

proclamations, etc.) to the General President during the visit.

Receiving Line i. The formal receiving line is rarely used at most functions.

ii. In most instances, a reception has been accepted as a more effective and congenial way to enable Officers and visiting VIPs to interact and meet Brothers and their guests.

iii. It’s important to remember that the success or tone of both public and private events may be dependent on advanced planning of the receiving line, holding area, and dais protocol.

iv. If the event calls for a formal receiving line, attention should be paid to the formation of the line to assure a good and uninterrupted flow of traffic, not blocking exits and walkways.

v. The line should reflect the following order: a. Local/Host Chapter President, host District Director, host Assistant District Director, host

Regional Vice-President, and host Assistant Regional Vice-President, who would introduce guests to the General President (in turn, introductions are made henceforth):

General President and spouse, if applicable

Special Guests

Regional Vice-President(s)

Assistant Regional Vice-President(s)

District Director(s)

Assistant District Director(s)

Local Chapter President(s)

Other special Fraternal Officials or Dignitaries (VIPs)

Holding Room or Assembly Room i. The holding room should be an enclosed space/room in close proximity to the main meeting room.

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ii. Dignitaries should be informed of the location of the room in the formal invitation. iii. A Brother should be assigned to await guests in the main lobby of the facility and escort Dignitaries

to the holding room. iv. Chairs are positioned with table/chair cards bearing the names of the members of the dais in the

order in which they are to be seated on the dais. v. Water, coffee, tea and appropriate beverages should be placed in the room.

vi. Cortèges and boutonnières should be pinned on guest in this location. vii. The host/hostess leads the processional.

The Dais or Head Table

i. No Brother should be allowed on the dais or head table who is not properly attired in “Alpha Attire.”

ii. The line-up for the dais should permit each person to proceed in an orderly progression to his or her assigned seat, which should be clearly marked and inclusive of the seat reserved for the General President or the highest-ranking Fraternity Officer present.

iii. If the dais is two-tiered, the membership of the lower dais enters first. iv. All assembled should rise at the entry of the dais and remain standing until the last person enters

and the dais is seated. v. Processionals for the dais are according to ascending rank. If a chair must be skipped for higher-

ranking Officers who must enter near the end of the processional, it is okay to do so. vi. After all persons on the dais have reached their assigned seats, the Presiding Officer in charge of

the ceremonies should invite all persons assembled to rise to receive the General President or the highest ranking Fraternity Officer present

vii. After the General President or the highest-ranking Fraternity Officer present is seated, the program begins.

viii. If known sufficiently in advance that a dais guest will arrive late, it is recommended that a seat be assigned to that person at the end of the tier, with the exception of the General President.

ix. Reserved seating should be provided, near the front of the dais for spouses or special guests of dais participants.

Formal One Tier Seating i. The position of the Presiding Officer or the Master/Mistress of Ceremony is to the right of the

lectern, as this person faces the assemblage. ii. The guest of honor should be seated to the immediate right of the Presiding Officer.

iii. The next person to the right should be the General President (and spouse if applicable) or the highest-ranking Fraternity Officer present.

iv. The highest-ranking host elected official is positioned to the left of the podium. v. Other dais guests should be seated to the right or left of the persons noted above, balanced in

descending order of rank. vi. Please see diagram in Attachment R.

Formal Two Tier Seating

i. The designated Presiding Officers and honored guests should be at the upper dais level, while designated persons such as program participants and other guests are seated at the lower dais level.

ii. Consideration should be given to the physical restriction of the participants of the dais or the physical aspects of the room and the visibility of the dais in deciding tier assignment.

iii. The use of clearly scripted place cards is critical and should be utilized.

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iv. Please see diagram in Attachment R.

Formal Theatre Style Seating i. The front row on the left-hand side of the room should be reserved for the General President or the

highest-ranking Fraternity Officer present. ii. The front row on the right hand side should be reserved for the other elected and appointed

Officers in descending order. iii. If possible, individuals should be seated in rank order.

Hospitality and Social Amenities

i. The General President should be provided transportation upon arrival and departure, if invited by a local Chapter to participate in a particular event.

ii. Hotel accommodations should be provided for the General President by the host/local Chapter. A suite or comparable accommodations should be comfortable, private, and secure, and sufficient to permit the hosting of a meeting or entertaining VIPs or other special guests.

iii. A brother should be assigned to staff the General President throughout his visit. iv. The host/local Chapter should provide amenities such as light refreshments, beverages, and fruit

basket for the President‘s suite. v. Other efforts and activities, where feasible, should be made, to provide for the general relaxation

and entertainment of the President. vi. Additionally, time should be set aside, and space arranged, to allow the President to interact with

all members, especially colleges in the area, as they are surely the lifelines of all our fraternity

Press Release for Official Public and Private Functions i. The host Chapter, or Region should plan full press and media coverage activities to include a press

release of the event(s) for maximum coverage during visits by the General President or other National/Regional Officers.

ii. Information essential for press coverage (e.g., biographical sketches, etc.) for the General President may be found on the National website at www.AlphaPhiAlpha.net.

iii. All official press releases must be approved by the Executive Director. See SECTION III.8.

Attire for Official Public and Private Functions i. It goes without saying that the attire for any official Alpha Phi Alpha public or private function is

“Alpha Attire.” ii. Alpha Attire shall be defined as a suit, long sleeved shirt and tie.

iii. Brothers not appropriately attired should not be allowed to participate on the podium of an official function.

Convention Guidelines for Brotherly Conduct iv. Each convention (National/Regional/District) shall adopt a set of Convention Guidelines at the

beginning of each business session. v. A sample of Convention Guidelines is included in Attachment U.

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Protocol Six – Electronic Communication and Posting In this era of rapid information sharing via the websites, e-mail, Twitter, texting, Facebook, and other modes of communication, it is imperative procedures and protocols are in place for the Omicron Phi Lambda chapter’s Brothers. Brothers are to always be mindful of the secrecy element of Alpha Phi Alpha and never neglect to remember a Brother’s integrity in his home, place of employment, and professional and personal associations can easily be compromised in the event sensitive Alpha Phi Alpha information is obtained by those who are not members of Omicron Phi Lambda. As Brothers within the chapter have earned various professional and civic-related positions, it is imperative to remember each Omicron Phi Lambda member has a duty to protect these Brothers as they would themselves and their own credibility. Unbeknownst to many Brothers is some members of the chapter receive list-serve information via their professional e-mail addresses. Therefore, to make certain electronic communication rules are in place, the following rules are hereby required to protect all the chapter’s Brothers:

1.) No profanity, lewd, and/or risqué conversation should take place via the list-serve. All references to profanity, lewd, and risqué situations and behavior MUST take place after the Brother initiating the dialogue has ensured the following:

a. The Brother(s) receiving his e-mail is/are using personal e-mail addresses b. The distributing Brother should indicate in the e-mail’s SUBJECT LINE “non-work-appropriate” information

lies within the message 2.) All references to special chapter activities are to be described as “Bake Sales” and not by their previous name. The

time, date, and location of the bake sale should NEVER be disclosed, nor sent to the list-serve, under ANY circumstances.

Reply-To-All Function Should a Brother distribute an e-mail to the list-serve, unless the response is mandatory knowledge for the remainder of the recipients, the responding Brothers MUST ONLY reply to the Brothers having responded or send an individual e-mail to those he knows are interested in the subject. It is unfair and, in some cases, downright annoying to have an e-mailbox and a Personal Digital Assistant (PDA) full of e-mail not applicable to a defenseless recipient.

Reply to All abuse and misunderstandings can be avoided easily:

-Senders

If you do not want those you e-mail to use Reply-To-All, use the “Bcc” field to distribute your message.

Doing this will restrict the recipient’s response to only the sender. If you, for some reason, can’t use

“Bcc” or find it in your e-mail program or application, you need to make the effort to send separate e-

mails to each of your contacts. Then, if one of those folks hits Reply-To-All — it only goes to you.

-Recipients

You do not Reply-To-All if you do not know “all”…Reply to the Sender only. And, please use your

discretion as to what you feel everyone needs or wants to know. If you are not sure, only reply to the

Sender.

Distribution of Sensitive Information

Due to Omicron Phi Lambda’s unique stance on a number of topics and innovative choices of chapter bonding activities,

Brothers are strictly advised to not distribute information referring to these topics and activities to anyone outside of

Omicron Phi Lambda. Additionally, it is strongly encouraged no sensitive information is distributed to financially-inactive

Brothers, as their lack of financial commitment does not ensure their complete devotion to the chapter’s ideas and beliefs.

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In regard to distribution of Reclamation information, distributed documents should not, at all, reflect “party flyers” or

insinuate ANYTHING other than Reclamation activity. Doing anything in opposition to this protocol places each member of

the chapter and the chapter, as a whole, in jeopardy of ridicule, possible sanction, and potential banishment. To that point,

No Brother is permitted to distribute information to: 1.) Line Brothers from Chapter Other than Omicron Phi Lambda 2.) Other Alphas Who Are Friends from Other Chapters 3.) Any Alpha Phi Alpha List-Serve

Brothers, we DO NOT solicit, ask, or persuade members to Omicron Phi Lambda or Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated. Your job as a Brother is to display excellence as a member of the Omicron Phi Lambda and Alpha Phi Alpha, speak highly of the chapter, and encourage any inactive Brothers to honor his oath. You attract upstanding Brothers to the chapter by looking and acting like one. Omicron Phi Lambda Brothers ARE NOT to invite or lure inactive Brothers to the chapter, unless they inquire about our chapter or specifically state they are looking for a home chapter. Beyond that, we simply display the best Alpha has to offer.

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Protocol Seven – Intake and Reclamation Greeting Protocol “Don’t initiate until you have the right kind of material. Remember it is QUALITY we want instead of QUANTITY.” Raymond W. Cannon 12th General President November 17, 1925 Alpha Phi Alpha, based on its inception, was and is supposed to be a SECRET society of college-educated and professional men. Throughout the years the commitment to the secret and the commitment to selecting the best-of-the-best has severely faded and left the fraternity with many less than ideal and desirable members. Omicron Phi Lambda based its existence on the fact its particular brand of Alpha Phi Alpha was not for everyone. It is this perspective that has drawn a number of the chapter’s members to Omicron Phi Lambda and it once served as a Beacon of Hope to those having deeply felt the Alpha Phi Alpha General Office was more concerned about creating members as a revenue-generating venture opposed to ensuring it boasts a vetted and strong assembly of college-educated, professional men. As a result, Intake has become equivalent to Major League Baseball’s Farm System and the National Basketball Association’s Developmental League, which harvest players hoping to reach the highest level in each sport. While some toiling in those leagues truly are players of the highest caliber, most are bodies to ensure the rosters of NBA and MLB teams have a pool to draw from should the rosters become depleted by injury or some other unforeseen circumstance. Omicron Phi Lambda cannot subject itself to such offerings of charity and weakness. Quite simply stated, Alpha Phi Alpha and Omicron Phi Lambda are not for everyone and it is not required, nor the chapter obligation, to continuously add members via any outlet…especially Intake. Brothers, when evaluating members for Intake it becomes imperative the track record of the person supporting the applicant’s application for membership is examined. Should the Brother providing the reference for the applicant have an abysmal reference history and his candidates continuously failed to meet expectations, it is absolutely safe to assume that Brother offers poor references and his candidate should be viewed through those lenses. While it is very possible the candidate could defy the previously recommended, poor-attendance/effort Brother having made the nominating Brother’s decision suspect, it is certainly reasonable to question the applicant and his intentions. Inasmuch, it is completely rationale to look upon a candidate’s failure to acquaint himself with the chapter consistently prior to the Intake period as a definite point of concern, as well. Sporadic effort to meet and affiliate with the Brothers is an excellence sign this aspirant will act in the same manner if made a Brother. Reclamation Greeting Protocol

As previously noted, in regard to distribution of Reclamation information, distributed documents should not, at all, reflect

“party flyers” or insinuate ANYTHING other than Reclamation activity. Doing anything in opposition to this protocol places

each member of the chapter and the chapter, as a whole, in jeopardy of ridicule, possible sanction, and potential

banishment. To that point, No Brother is permitted to distribute information to:

1.) Line Brothers from Chapter Other than Omicron Phi Lambda 2.) Other Alphas Who Are Friends from Other Chapters 3.) Any Alpha Phi Alpha List-Serve

Brothers, we DO NOT solicit, ask, or persuade members to Omicron Phi Lambda or Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated. Your job as a Brother is to display excellence as a member of the Omicron Phi Lambda and Alpha Phi Alpha, speak highly of the chapter, and encourage any inactive Brothers to honor his oath. You attract upstanding Brothers to the chapter by looking and acting like one. Omicron Phi Lambda Brothers ARE NOT to invite or lure inactive Brothers to the chapter, unless they inquire about our chapter or specifically state they are looking for a home chapter. Beyond that, we simply display the

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best Alpha has to offer.

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Protocol Eight – Greeting Protocol

Although Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated firmly believes in egalitarianism, Alpha Men show a certain amount of deference to other Brothers who hold an elected or appointed position. The highest-ranking elected Alpha Officer (General President; Past-General President; Regional Vice President; Assistant Regional Vice President; elected National Officers, etc.) present at an official function should at all times be granted the respect, courtesies and amenities befitting the office. NOTE: This applies to the District Directors when functions are held in his District and the Chief Dean of Membership Development during Initial Membership Development Cluster. Brothers stand and applaud out of respect for the office when an Alpha Officer enters a room of those who have assembled to conduct the business of the Fraternity. It should also be noted that Brothers should also remain standing until the Alpha Officer is seated or until he directs them to be seated.

Official Challenge i. In greeting a suspected member of Alpha Phi Alpha not known to another Brother, the Official

Challenges as outlined in the Ritual of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. is the ONLY means of challenge.

ii. Brothers are not required to (nor should they) respond to other locally developed challenges.

Official Greetings i. In a formal setting, (e.g. a Fraternity Meeting, Convention, etc.), a Brother should always address

another Brother using the title “Brother” and his last name. ii. In an informal setting (e.g. a shopping mall or the likes), a Brother does not have to address another

Brother using a formal title. It is also appropriate for a Brother to refer to another Brother as “frat”, in an informal setting.

iii. In cases where an Alpha Officer is present, the Brother acknowledging this Brother should always use the title “Brother” followed by the Alpha Officer’s title (i.e. Brother General President; Brother Vice-President; Brother District Director).

iv. When introducing an Alpha Officer who is present at any function, they should be introduced using the title “Brother” followed by the Alpha Officer’s current or former (in some cases) position:

v. Brother John Doe, the (state Region) Regional Vice-President (Assistant Vice-President). vi. Brother John Doe, the (state District) District Director (Assistant District Director). iii. An exception is the current or a former General President. In that case, he should be introduced

using some combination of the number of his General Presidency of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated, the title “Brother” and his first (middle initial) and last name in one of the listed formats. i.e. The 33rd General President of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Brother Herman “Skip” Mason, Jr. or Brother Skip Mason, Sr., the 33rd General President of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. It is not necessary to ask brothers to stand

Titles Used with Correspondence, Invitations and Formal Programs i. Correspondence addressed to a Brother should utilize the title of “Brother” followed by the official

position on the next line. Brother Dr. John Jones. The word brother should precede the title and the brother’s name. This will apply to reverends, doctors, military officers, etc.

ii. Correspondence addressed to a Brother and his spouse should include the titles of “Brother and Mrs.”

iii. In doing formal programs, the word “Brothers” should precede the formal title of the brother, i.e. Brother Dr. John Jones. This will apply to ministers, doctors, military officers, etc.

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Extending an Invitation for the General President or Executive Director to Attend a Chapter Event i. Every day, the Corporate Office receives a large volume of e-mail. To ensure timely processing of

invitations for the General President or the Executive Director to attend a chapter event, the invitation should be extended via mail. The requestor should include his full name, complete address, telephone number, travel accommodations, as well as the details of the event. Invitations must be received a minimum of three (3) months in advance of the scheduled event.

ii. Invitations to the General President should be mailed to: Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Attn: Office of the General President 2313 St Paul Street Baltimore, MD 21218-5211

iii. Invitations to the Executive Director should be mailed to: Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Attn: Office of the Executive Director 2313 Saint Paul Street Baltimore, MD 21218-5211

Requesting Official Greetings from the National Office

i. The Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Communications Office receives and processes all requests for greeting on behalf of the General President and/or Executive Director in accordance with long-standing guidelines. Please carefully review the guidelines below prior to submitting your request. Requests that do not comply with the guidelines or do not contain sufficient information will not be fulfilled.

ii. The Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Communications Office will send greetings only to active Members/Chapters for special occasions as outlined below.

iii. Please provide the following information when making your request: 1. Name of honoree(s). 2. Address of honoree(s). 3. Form of address (Doctor, Reverend, Sergeant, Admiral, etc…). 4. Date (month, day, year) of birth, birthday, or anniversary. 5. Requestor's name and daytime phone number.

iv. The number of requests an active member or chapter can submit per month is limited to three (3) per month. Requests for multiple greetings must be submitted separately by fax or mail on official letterhead with the required information listed above.

v. For birthdays and anniversaries, greetings will be mailed from the Corporate Office approximately 20 days prior to the event. Omega Service Resolutions will be emailed to presenting chapter/member and official document will be sent after the event.

vi. If you experience problems making an online request, please make your request by fax or mail. vii. Your greeting request can also be made by:

FAX: 410.554.0054 MAIL: Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Attn: Communications Office 2313 Saint Paul Street Baltimore, MD 21218-5211

Requesting Official Proclamations from the National Office i. All anniversary greetings will be sent to chapters/members who are celebrating their milestone

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Anniversaries (25, 50th or greater). Please make your request at least 6 weeks in advance of the anniversary date.

ii. All Omega service resolutions will be sent for members who have entered omega chapter that have served on the national level (Committee Chair, Board of Directors) or have made nationally recognizable, civic, social or professional contributions. All other resolution request can be made to the regional leadership, respectively.

iii. Your greeting request can also be made by: FAX: 410.554.0054 MAIL: Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Attn: Communications Office 2313 Saint Paul Street Baltimore, MD 21218-5211

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Protocol Nine - Guests

Board Meetings Being an elected or appointed officer of Omicron Phi Lambda is designed to be a privilege. As a result, Board Meeting attendance is designated solely for Board Members and attendance by any member of the chapter not appointed as a replacement for an existing member or an invited guest of the Board is prohibited. As each Brother knows, Board Meetings are hosted in the home of a Brother (not required to be a Board Member) and dinner is served as his offer of hospitality. While able to determine how many Board Members there are, each additional person not a member of the Board directly runs the risk of offsetting the food and beverages the Host Brother has been so generous to provide. With this in mind, we are required to extend the courtesy required of any person gracious enough to host anything and permit that person to rest comfortably knowing they have planned adequately…for the board members. Chapter Meetings If a member of Omicron Phi Lambda invites a visiting Brother to a meeting, the host Brother is required to be at the meeting to accompany his guest through the door. A visiting Brother is not permitted to enter the meeting until his host Brother arrives. Alpha Academy and Service Projects If a member of Omicron Phi Lambda invites a visiting Brother to a service project, the host Brother is required to be at the meeting to accompany his guest through the door. A visiting Brother is not permitted to enter the meeting until his host Brother arrives. *Women are not permitted at Alpha Academy and Service Projects, unless special permission is received or otherwise stated. Parties and Formal Gathering Brothers are permitted to bring their immediate families to the Fourth of July Picnic. Brothers not bringing families members are permitted to bring one guest, in lieu of immediate family. All Brothers are permitted to bring one guest to the Christmas Party and must reserve that guest’s place with the party’s host via the method the host(s) request. At Formal Gatherings, Brothers are permitted to bring as many guests as they have sold or purchased tickets.

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Protocol Ten – Alcohol and Drugs -Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. fully supports the following National Pan-Hellenic Council’s (NPHC) position on Substance Abuse http://www.nphchq.org/resources.htm :

a. “The NPHC is concerned about the governing problem of substance abuse through the consumption of alcohol and the use of drugs, especially on college campuses. This is due to the alarming number of disastrous incidents in which alcohol and drugs play a part and the adverse health conditions caused by and relating to substance abuse.”

b. “The NPHC position is that the sale or consumption of alcohol or drugs at any NPHC council sponsored event on campus or at any student’s residence or other facility is strictly prohibited.”

c. “NPHC strongly suggests that every college council offer educational programs specifically addressing the problems of and solutions to substance abuse on or around the local campus.”

-Alpha Phi Alpha Men will always show respect to themselves, to others, whether wearing paraphernalia or not. -Alpha Men should NEVER abuse alcohol. -Alpha Men should NEVER use illegal drugs.

-As per the Risk Management Handbook, “It is important, especially among College Chapters, that Brothers have a clear understanding of the Legal drinking age in the State where he lives. In addition, each chapter should become acquainted with the State “Dram Shop” laws. Under that law, fraternities and sororities may be held liable for the behavior of persons served liquor during fraternal social functions. In simple language, “Dram Shop” laws provide that if a person receives liquor from a fraternity and as a result injures someone or damages property, the Fraternity is legally liable for that person’s action. In those states which have raised the legal drinking age to 21 years, it is illegal to serve liquor or alcoholic beverages to anyone under that age whether they pay for it or not”

-As per the Risk Management Handbook, “Any proven use, possession or sale of illegal drugs is cause for dismissal.”

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Protocol Eleven – Enforcement

Merriam-Webster’s Online Dictionary defines protocol as a code prescribing strict adherence to correct etiquette and precedence. This protocol manual is developed in an effort to provide a common set of procedures for Alpha Phi Alpha Men. The manual includes official policy and procedures regarding what it means to be an Alpha Man and General Alpha Protocol. This manual is not designed to provide punitive actions for non-adherence in all instances. Following codes of protocol and etiquette are means of showing respect of another person and/or organization. Protocol and etiquette is a lofty and valued attitude and is a source of accord and unity. Organizations who wish to preserve and protect their brand, always outline rules of protocol and etiquette. The notion of etiquette is of French origin and arising from practices at the court of Louis XIV. For some, etiquette and protocol is occasionally disparaged as old-fashioned or elite, a code concerned only with "which fork to use." Some people consider etiquette to be an unnecessary restriction of freedom of personal expression; others consider such free spirits to be unmannerly and rude. For instance, wearing pajamas to a wedding in a cathedral may be an expression of the guest's freedom, but may also cause the bride and groom to suspect that the guest in pajamas is expressing amusement or disparagement towards them and their wedding. Etiquette may be enforced in pragmatic ways: "No shoes, no shirt, no service" is a notice commonly displayed outside stores and cafés in the warmer parts of North America. Others feel that a single, basic code shared by all makes life simpler and more pleasant by removing any chances for misunderstandings. This protocol and etiquette manual is designed to provide Men of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. with the proper manner in which Men of Alpha should behave and act. Again, enforcement of the policies and procedures in the manual will not necessarily be punitive. Enforcement may simply mean a simply phrase like, “Alphas don’t do that.” Where there are requirements to obtain approval of certain processes and procedures, the process has been outlined under that particular section of the manual, i.e., approval of certain public relations activities. The policies and procedures in this manual are also not designed to be retroactive, in most cases, i.e. it is not designed to have tattoos removed. However, it is hoped that the policies and procedures will make it clear that such action is not condoned by the National Organization of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. thus absorbing the organization of any potential liability associated with such behavior.

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End of Protocol and Etiquette Manual