Contact:
Eric Christopher Webb, DDiv., CPLC
Director of Communications
/Editor of The Sphinx
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
Cell: 443-635-5911
September 27, 2023
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Statement By Past General President Harry E. Johnson, Sr. on the Misleading Use of His Image
“Today, I learned a social media post that included a photograph I am in appeared on various social media platforms and suggested my endorsement of Brother Gregory Parks for the position of General President of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. I emphatically refute this notion and ensure the truth is abundantly clear.
As a devoted member of our beloved brotherhood, I am dedicated to evaluating all candidates based on their qualifications, experience, and vision before making an informed decision. To date, I have not endorsed Brother Parks nor any Brother for the position of General President.
I am remiss if I do not caution all candidates regarding how we use photographs and social media when communicating with our Brothers, especially when campaigning for national office. I think you will all agree we must uphold the values that define our fraternity by fostering an environment of honesty, respect, transparency, and integrity.
Furthermore, I want to take this opportunity to stress something that I have said over the course of this election: “You can’t lead Alpha if you haven’t served.” I want to remind us of the importance of service as a fundamental aspect of leadership within our fraternity. I want this to be a powerful reminder that true leadership is earned through a demonstrated commitment to improving our communities, our fraternity, and the lives of those we serve.
As we approach the General President election, I urge each and every one of us to engage in thoughtful discussions, critically evaluate the qualifications of all candidates, and actively participate in the democratic process. Let us remember that our fraternity’s strength lies in its members’ collective wisdom, dedication, and service. Together, we should select a leader who will guide our fraternity towards continued growth, progress, and impactful service to all mankind.”
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About Alpha Phi Alpha
The Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., the first intercollegiate Greek-letter fraternity established for African American men, was founded on December 4, 1906, at Cornell University in Ithaca, NY and is headquartered in Baltimore, MD. The Fraternity has long stood at the forefront of the African American community’s fight for civil rights through Alpha men such as Martin Luther King, Jr., Adam Clayton Powell, Thurgood Marshall, Paul Robeson, Andrew Young, Edward Brooke and Cornel West. The fraternity, through its more than 720 college and alumni chapters and general-organization members, serves communities in the United States, Africa, Europe, Asia and the Caribbean. Visit us at www.apa1906.net and follow us on all platforms @apa1906network.