Members of Delta Sigma Theta are celebrating the sorority’s 100th anniversary at their national convention in D.C.. News 4’s Tom Sherwood found out what the event means a lot to the 40,000 visitors and to business owners in the area.
You can't miss the sea of crimson and cream downtown or near the Washington Convention Center with the historic Delta Sigma Theta sorority’s 51st national convention under way.
The convention kicked off Friday with a presentation of the sorority torch that began its cross-country journey from Los Angeles New Year's Day. As many as 40,000 Deltas are expected to register for the big weekend.
“I'm going to have some fun, but I want to do some right things, too, so we can leave an impact on this city,” said Gwendolyn Hughes McCottry, of New York City.
The late rights leader Dorothy Height is immortalized as one of the many national leaders from the 100-year-old sorority, with its call to service for sorority sisters of any age.
“That's a lot of history to live up to,” said Tuesdae Knight, of San Antonio.
One extra focus this year is the physical and mental health challenges to children and adults around the world.
“We do a lot service in the community nationwide, across other countries,” said Aona Jefferson, of D.C. “We are very active and busy Deltas.”
The sorority hosts a revival Friday night and its formal gala Saturday night.
D.C. tourism officials say the Deltas will account for about $73 million in spending for hotels, restaurants and merchandise.
