Inside a local movie theater, members of Clinton’s Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta, Inc. enjoyed listening to children clap and cheer as T’Challa fought his way to become king.
Sorority members coordinated a community effort Saturday afternoon for them to see the blockbuster “Black Panther,” a production from Disney and Marvel Studios. More than 150 viewers made their way to East Park Cinema. The guests included a mix of children and chaperons enjoyed the movie. The Deltas paid for the admissions and the theater provided popcorn and drinks, free of charge. Worley said they appreciated the owners, management and staff for providing refreshments.
Carol Worley, sorority member, said there was a lot enthusiasm around the project. She believes it made a positive impact on the children.
“We got positive feedback from the students,” she said. “They were happy about it. Many of the adults were very pleased that we included them in this opportunity to take the children.”
The outing and large amount of participants was a first for the sorority. It’s one of many service projects conducted by the sorority during the year. Some of the others includes visits to local nursing homes, college tours, World AIDS Day activities and service recognition programs.
The movie showing began with an idea to provide an opportunity for underprivileged children to see the movie. Members of the sorority reached out to the community, school organizations and local churches.
“We announced it in churches and the churches stepped up and agreed to send their youths,” Worley said. “That’s how we ended up with so many.”
The Deltas was grateful for the response and was expecting about 100 people. After making the announcement, they were surprised to see that so many people signed up in a short period of time.
“I would like to extend my thankfulness and appreciation to the community and the churches,” she said.
Worley added that children said it was inspiring to see black people portrayed in a positive manner on the big screen. The fantasy and science fiction story follows superhero T’Challa’s and his path to sit on Wakanda’s throne as the Black Panther after the death of his father. This comes with a challenge from villain Erik Killmonger. Directed by Ryan Coogler and starring actors Chadwick Boseman and Michael B. Jordan, the movie grossed more than $500 million domestically and is near the $900 million mark worldwide.
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. was founded Jan. 13, 1913 by 22 collegiate women at Howard University to promote academic excellence and community service.The Clinton Alumnae Chapter was chartered with 30 members on Jan. 22, 1995 at Andrews Chapel Church in Clinton.
