Chapter History

On Saturday, May 5, 1945, the Gamma Iota Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. was chartered in Brooklyn, NY by eleven men of distinction. They included the following brothers: Cecil Foster, Claude Franklin, George Grissom, James Hairston, Joseph Johnson, Frank McCoy, Herbert T. Miller, Myles A. Paige, Sandy F. Ray, Albert Smith, and Franklin Williams. Alpha founder, Jewel, and notable architect, Vertner Woodson Tandy was present for the ceremony.

Days before the German surrender during World War II, Gamma Iota Lambda became the second alumni chapter of the Fraternity to be located in New York City. Brother Herbert T. Miller served as Gamma Iota Lambda Chapter’s first president. Myles A. Paige later became the 19th General President of the Fraternity. As was the case for many African-American fraternal and social organizations of the time, the chapter held its early meetings and entertainments in the homes of its members, many of whom were attorneys, civic leaders, clergy, educators, physicians, and veterans. The earliest written description of the chapter’s priorities included educational programs, adjustment programs for returning veterans, as well as civic activities to advance the well-being of Black Brooklynites. It was a priority for Gamma Iota Lambda to address persistent problems affecting schools, health, and justice in our neighborhoods.

With desegregation creating new opportunities for housing and education, several brothers and their families relocated to Long Island in the mid -1950s – 1970s. Gamma Iota Lambda’s commitment to serving those most in need was extended there as well. In this effort, they were joined by the Alpha Wives Club of Brooklyn – Long Island. This partnership has been responsible for generating thousands of dollars in scholarship and educational aid for Black youth in the New York Metropolitan area over the years.

Today, the Chapter celebrates over 75 years of providing leadership and service to the Brooklyn – Long Island area. Whether leading thousands of people across the Brooklyn Bridge in 2020 during the George Floyd Memorial and public protest, or providing supplies, COVID-19 resources, and nourishment to those in need during uncertain times, the brothers of Gamma Iota Lambda continue to be Servants of All.