The Omega Psi Phi fraternity was founded at Howard University in 1911 to bring African-American students into a society of brotherhood and unity on campus. Many fraternities have secret rituals, and Omega Psi Phi is known for some of its more hardcore rituals, including branding-a process of burning a design into skin. For Omega Psi Phi brothers, one such brand includes the Greek letter "omega,"
. which may be burned in multiple locations. Among the many meanings of the branding is to reclaim a concept from when African slaves were branded to indicate ownership, transforming it into a statement of solidarity with other brothers. Some other general rituals include:
Swearing an oath of loyalty to the fraternity and to brothersAffirmations of God and/or JesusChantingReciting the Greek alphabetReciting the foundersCertain tasks or challenges As with many fraternity rituals, there is controversy about whether certain practices should be considered dangerous hazing, and thus prosecuted. Many others, particularly members, disagree, citing rituals as sacred to the organization and paramount for the solidarity of brothers. For that reason in particular, it is very difficult to learn about Omega Psi Phi rituals without being a member. For more information, please see: http://www.reference.com/browse/omega+psi+phi 