Alpha Kappa Alpha (AKA), the historically Black sorority to which Vice President Kamala Harris belongs, has formed a political action committee (PAC). This move is a significant step in mobilizing support among its members and the broader Black community as Harris campaigns for the presidency in the 2024 election.
Alpha Kappa Alpha, one of the oldest and most prestigious historically Black sororities in the United States, has launched a political action committee (PAC). This new initiative allows AKA to raise funds from its members and their families, aiming to support federal campaigns and political parties. The sorority, which counts Vice President Kamala Harris as a notable alumna, is using this PAC to potentially rally support for her historic presidential campaign.
The Divine Nine’s Political Influence
AKA is part of the “Divine Nine,” a collective of historically Black sororities and fraternities that wield significant political influence. With a network of over 2 million alumni, the Divine Nine is recognized as a powerful voting bloc that both major political parties are keen to engage with ahead of the November 2024 election.
Kamala Harris and AKA’s Historical Connection
Vice President Kamala Harris has a deep connection with AKA, often referring to its members as “family.” Her association with the sorority dates back to her college days at Howard University. In 2020, when Harris was announced as Joe Biden’s running mate, her campaign received an influx of donations from AKA members, symbolizing their support for one of their own.
Political Mobilization and Fundraising
The AKA 1908 PAC will accept contributions of up to $5,000 per donor, focusing on supporting federal campaigns that align with the sorority’s values. This effort is part of a broader mobilization strategy among the Divine Nine, who have pledged to engage in unprecedented voter registration and education campaigns leading up to the election.
Other Greek Organizations with PACs
AKA is not the first Greek organization to establish a PAC. Phi Beta Sigma, another Divine Nine fraternity, also operates a PAC. Additionally, the Fraternity & Sorority Political Action Committee, founded in 2005, supports candidates who advocate for the interests of Greek organizations.
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