On October 5, 2013, the Gamma Iota chapter of the Omega Psi Phi Inc. sponsored its third annual 5K “Taking a Stance Against Domestic Violence” walk/run at Dillon Park in Sumter, South Carolina.
The chapter’s outgoing Basileus, Hampton Gardner, and 5k committee chair and Keeper of Records and Seals, Dexter McLendon, both began the event with opening remarks. Gardner began by officially thanking participants for coming out and supporting the cause. Organizations recognized included: the local YWCA, Alpha Kappa Alphas, Zeta Phi Betas, Delta Sigma Thetas, and Chestnut Oak Middle School representatives.
McLendon gave a brief overview of the route and also of the awards that were to be given to the top three finishers for both males and females. He also revealed an Omega plaque that was presented to the organization with the most registered participants.
The purpose of the 5k was to raise awareness about the systemic problem of domestic violence not only on a national level, but also locally. Currently, South Carolina leads the nation in domestic violence which is a statistic South Carolina cannot be proud of. Because the state continues to struggle with this issue, the Gamma Iota chapter annually conducts the 5k walk/run to continue to raise awareness in the community.
In 2008, the chapter was the first and only African American male fraternity that officially took a stance against domestic violence. “While speaking at a local women’s group years ago, I spoke about how we [Gamma Iota chapter] are the only male fraternity who have taken a stance against domestic violence,” said Vince Ferguson, incoming Basileus. “Every since that year, the chapter has continued to work with the local YWCA and other organizations in the community to raise awareness.”
McLendon stated that the proceeds from the events will go to an organization that will be identified during the November Achievement Week Banquet. Participants all had an opportunity to not only run for the cause but also receive rewards for their efforts. Brother Taurus Smith finished in first place for the males and Annie Dear of Third Army was the top finisher for the females. The ladies of Alpha Kappa Alphas Sorority earned the Omega plaque as they registered the most participants.
The Gamma Iota chapter would like to thank all sponsors and participants for their support. Members of the Gamma Iota and Epsilon Lambda Chapters of Sum-ter, SC came together to host Gamma Iota’s third annual 5K“Taking a Stance Against Domestic Violence” walk/run event on October 05, 2013 at Dillon Park.
Written by:
Brother Shawn Woodard
