The “20 Pearls” are more than just a pretty name. They hold a deep and meaningful history tied to one of the most respected sisterhoods in the United States. If you’ve heard the term but never quite understood what it meant, you’re about to discover a beautiful story full of legacy, strength, and unity. This article explains everything about the 20 Pearls in a way that even a 10-year-old can understand — but with all the right keywords and SEO power for adults and search engines alike!
What Are the 20 Pearls?
The “20 Pearls” refer to the original founders and incorporators of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. (AKA)—the first historically Black Greek-letter sorority. Founded in 1908 at Howard University, this powerful group of women laid the foundation for what would become a globally recognized sisterhood focused on service, scholarship, and sisterly love.
The name “20 Pearls” symbolizes the 20 women who played vital roles in establishing and growing the organization. These women are honored and remembered as the foundation of Alpha Kappa Alpha, and today, the term “20 Pearls” is a treasured nickname that holds great historical weight and sisterly pride.
Where Did the 20 Pearls Come From?
The 20 Pearls originated from Howard University in Washington, D.C. On January 15, 1908, nine African-American women came together to form a support group that would empower Black women through education, service, and leadership. As the organization grew in its early years, seven sophomores were added in 1910, followed by four incorporators in 1913 who legally secured the sorority’s presence.
These 20 women, coming from various backgrounds and regions of the United States, came together with one mission: to uplift their communities and build a strong, supportive bond among women of color.
Why Are They Called Pearls?
Pearls are often used to symbolize wisdom, beauty, strength, and elegance. In many cultures, pearls are precious gems that take years to form, representing growth and transformation. Within Alpha Kappa Alpha, each of the 20 founding women is seen as a “pearl” because of the role they played in developing the sorority.
Each woman’s contributions added to the strength and grace of the organization, just like each pearl contributes to the elegance of a necklace. That’s why members of AKA often wear 20 pearls on their necklaces or pins—one for each founder and incorporator.
The First Nine Founders
The original nine founders of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. are:
- Ethel Hedgeman Lyle
- Anna Easter Brown
- Beulah Elizabeth Burke
- Lillie Burke
- Marjorie Hill
- Margaret Flagg Holmes
- Lavinia Norman
- Lucy Diggs Slowe
- Marie Woolfolk Taylor
These women were students at Howard University and wanted to create a support system that would last far beyond college. Their strength and vision continue to inspire generations.
The Next Seven “Pearls”
In 1910, seven sophomore students were invited to join and help solidify the new sorority. These women are known as the “Seven Sophomores”, and they are also considered pearls:
- Joanna Berry Shields
- Norma Boyd
- Ethel Jones Mowbray
- Alice Murray
- Sarah Meriwether Nutter
- Carrie Snowden
- Harriet Josephine Terry
These sisters brought fresh energy and strong voices to the growing organization.
The Last Four Honorary Pearls
In 1913, four women were key in incorporating the organization, ensuring its legal and national status. These incorporators, also known as honorary pearls, are:
- Nellie Quander
- Julia Brooks
- Minnie B. Smith
- Norma E. Boyd (also one of the Sophomores – recognized twice for her efforts)
Their work helped ensure that Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. would be more than just a campus club—it would be a powerful, lasting movement.
What Makes the 20 Pearls Special Today?
More than a century later, the legacy of the 20 Pearls still shines brightly. Their vision has grown into a worldwide network of over 1,000 chapters and nearly 300,000 members. From mentoring young girls to providing disaster relief and scholarships, the work started by the 20 Pearls continues in every community that Alpha Kappa Alpha serves.
Their impact goes beyond just college campuses. The sorority’s members include politicians, educators, entrepreneurs, and public figures—including U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris, an AKA herself.
Every member honors the 20 Pearls not just in words, but through acts of service and leadership. Their story is a living example of what happens when women come together for a common cause.
How Do Members Show the 20 Pearls?
The 20 Pearls are deeply respected within the sorority, and members show their appreciation in many ways:
- Wearing pearl jewelry, often in strands of 20
- Displaying pearl-themed decor at events
- Teaching new members about the founders and their achievements
- Incorporating pearl imagery into chapter logos, banners, and programs
Each symbol, strand, and tradition tied to the 20 Pearls is meant to reflect the grace, power, and resilience of the women they represent.
Fun Facts About the 20 Pearls
20 Pearls Symbolism
The term “20 Pearls” is not just a nickname; it’s a powerful symbol of unity and historical pride. Every strand of 20 pearls worn by a member represents each of the founding women who helped build the sorority from the ground up. These pearls aren’t just fashion—they’re legacy.
AKA and the Pink & Green Colors
The sorority is well known for its pink and green color scheme. These colors symbolize femininity (pink) and vitality or growth (green). When paired with pearls, these colors complete the image of elegance and strength that the 20 Pearls embody.
Can You Be a Pearl Too?
While the original 20 Pearls will always be the foundation of Alpha Kappa Alpha, every new member is encouraged to carry the pearl legacy forward. By upholding the values of service, scholarship, and sisterhood, members are seen as modern-day pearls themselves—growing and glowing in the spirit of the founders.
Thoughts on the 20 Pearls
The 20 Pearls are more than just names in a book or faces on a wall. They represent a movement. They showed what was possible for women—especially Black women—in times when society offered little opportunity. Their story is proof that great change starts with just a few committed people. From college students to national changemakers, their journey inspires countless young girls and women to dream big and lead with purpose.
The Bottom Line
Whether you’re an aspiring member, a curious reader, or just someone interested in history and leadership, the story of the 20 Pearls is one you should never forget. They symbolize grace, power, and legacy—and they continue to shine over 100 years later.
The pearls aren’t just worn; they’re lived. Each one is a symbol of courage, wisdom, and unity. From the original nine to the incorporators, their combined strength gave rise to one of the most influential sisterhoods in history. That’s the true sparkle behind the 20 Pearls—a sparkle every girl and woman can aspire to carry forward.
