The brothers of Nu Iota Sigma Stand with the town of Newtown and continue our effort on protecting our children from all manners of violence. See the statement below from brother Darryl T. Williams, our National Director of Social Action
Washington, DC - December 19, 2012 – Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., the Fraternity of James Weldon Johnson, A. Philip Randolph and John Lewis, a 98-year old, international organization of college and professional men of predominantly African American origin, in the aftermath of the senseless and horrific events of December 14th, in Newtown, CT, join the world community in expressing their love and prayers for the families and souls of the precious victims of this violent act and a call for protective action.
The methodical slaying of his own mother by her 20-year-old son with guns in the home and the continuing slaughter of 6 women and 20, 6-7-year-old children at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, CT, have shattered the hearts of a community and world, still reeling from this tragedy. With more questions than answers, we come together as God’s children in love and support for the brave and innocent victims, remarkable parents, responders, clergy and a nation that have admirably poured out their best in brotherly and sisterly acts of caring and comfort, and prayerful vigils participated in by President Obama.
A father, who sadly lost his 6-year-old son in this shooting carnage, touchingly expressed that he will endeavor to dedicate his life in service to others as a testament to the joy that he experienced in being a parent. This reminds us all of the true meaning and purpose for which we are on this Earth and, as God’s children, our responsibility to care for each other. It instills an imperative and sense of urgency to meet our collective responsibility of providing a safe, nurturing environment and opportunities for all children to learn, and grow as adults to love themselves, and love each other as God loves us.
The men of Phi Beta Sigma, collegiate and professional alumni, committed to Culture for Service and Service to Humanity, stand with all good and caring persons dedicated to providing a safe and loving environment for all children to learn in their schools, playgrounds, places of worship and their general community, and call on legislators, health care advocates and community leaders to fashion a way to ensure that the probability of these senseless tragedies ever occurring is minimized. We have a shared responsibility to make resources available to all who need them to grow in self-love and in respect for others and to encourage them in ways that they may achieve with a sense of fulfillment and joy. Full support and funding of mentoring programs by organizations, religious and civic groups with demonstrable success play an important role. Access to mental health treatment as needed is equally important.
In this Season of Hope, let us redouble our efforts and commitment to find answers to improve safety and opportunity for all in a spirit of love and service. In so doing, may we honor the memories, the promise and the eternal gifts that these young lives represent, by our continued service, respect and protection of the safety of all to purse their aspirations in peace and love.
Bro. Darryl T. Williams
International Director of Social Action
Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc.
