Stomp the Yard celebrates the black Greek tradition of stomping

Sony Pictures’ new movie, “Stomp the Yard,” will be released in January 2007, just a few weeks after a monumental celebration for all black Greeks. Alpha Phi Alpha, Inc. fraternity will be 100 years old on December 3, 2006. The significance of this date affects the film because it is a sign of the tremendous influence the organization has on African-American culture.

A college step show is part of everyday African-American culture. Almost every African American can identify all of the historically black fraternities and sororities, also known as the Divine Nine. Each organization has its own story based on the real life of the founders and organizers. Each organization has its own set of colors, letters, and shields. Each organization has its own traditions that go back to its origins. One of the most popular traditions that all black Greeks share is the tradition of walking.

Each organization with Greek letters followed the template that was put forth by the white Greeks. Each organization had a shield, a motto, a ritual, and a membership regime. The general purpose of Greek letter organizations is for networking purposes. Hot on the heels of Alpha Phi Alpha, other black Greeks went on the run.

The step can be described as a combination of signing, dancing, and rhythm. There is a military-type precision to the step routines performed by each organization. The history of the steps comes from multiple sources, but one trend is certain. Black fraternities started with singing and added the elements of dance, marching, and singing. The result became a popular art form that has continued to this day. Each organization has its own identity in the pass. The Alphas (the Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity, Inc.) can be expected to use precision steps using common movements associated with Egyptian themes. The AKA (Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority, Inc.) use steps that promote their beauty. Kappas (Kappa Alpha Psi fraternity, Inc.) commonly use canes for precision walking and turning. Deltas (Delta Sigma Theta sorority, Inc.) emphasize your strength and character. Omegas (Omega Psi Phi fraternity, Inc.) often use rhythmic hops that equally match their chants and calls. Los Zetas (Zeta Phi Beta sorority, Inc.) take a step to signify a finer femininity. Sigmas (Phi Beta Sigma fraternity, Inc.) use extremely animated movements to display dexterity and precision. Sigma Gamma Rhos (Sigma Gamma Rho sorority, Inc.) can be seen using canes along with traditional steps. Iotas have a characteristic walk that shows their spirit. All organizations that participate in Stepping show a high level of energy and pride in paying homage to their organization and traditions.

The central premise of “Stomp the Yard” is based on the tradition of stomping. Without stepping foot, the movie would be just another drama about a dance contest. Hopefully, the film will pay homage not only to the tradition of walking, but also to the organizations that participate in the tradition. Happy 100th Alpha Phi Alpha! The impact the organization has had on African-American culture through the steps should be amplified with the film’s release in January 2006.