The Divine Nine sense of purpose and beyond: An Afrocentric narrative embracing well-being in Black sorority sisterhood

This qualitative study explored the lived experiences of nine Black sorority sisters through Afrocentric concepts and the perceived impact sorority sisterhood has on their well-being and Black family systems. A decolonizing design was used to collect data for the study with two theoretical perspectives - Africana Womanism and Ubuntu, both centered around family ideals and prioritize race, gender, and class as a vital part of Black women’s cultural identity and collective; hence, cultivating conscious well-being within community. The participants are members of the Denton County Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, and identified within the sorority’s age categories of Dolls -18-39, Divas - 40-61, and DEARS - 62. Following traditional Indigenous practices to experience familiarity and connection, three Afrocentric touch points were created: Umoja phone call, Sista Circle, and Nia journaling to foster sisterly relationships. This critical narrative delves into the rich tapestry of ancestral legacy, sorority sisterhood, and Black family systems relations connected through lived experiences of Black culture highlighting the significance of well-being in fostering unity and empowerment. Functioning within a profound sense of purpose for Black family systems, The Divine Nine sorority’s sisterhood identified three themes for this study. There was an abundance of unique shared experiences identified embracing and shedding light on Black culture, their sorority’s collective purpose, and a broader impact on Black women and well-being. This study forwards The Divine Nine’s sense of purpose and beyond by presenting an enduring and thriving Black collective.