Groove Phi Groove Returns to HU

“G Phi G?” When most students at an HBCU hear of this organization the movie School Daze comes to mind. But the G Phi G in School Daze and G Phi G in real life are not the same.

G Phi G stands for Groove Phi Groove. Groove was founded at Morgan State College in 1962. The last time Groove had a line at Hampton University was in 2001. On Nov. 9, 2010 two new members crossed and returned the presence of this organization to the campus of Hampton University. The coming out show for Groove Phi Groove filled the Student Center atrium. Many people wanted to know who was going to be a part of the organization and what Groove was all about.

Sophomores Jordan Wilkie from Wilmington, Del. and Nafiys Scott from Newark, N.J. spoke about why they wanted to be a part of this social organization.

“Groove is based on the principles of being black and proud and I would like to be a part of a organization that stands on uplifting black men to be successful in everything that they do.” said Scott.

“Groove stands for bringing black men up through the community and teaching them how to give back,” said Wilkie. “I was raised by my community and my organization stands on the principles of promoting academic awareness and good ethical standards to promote unity and fellowship between college and graduate level men.”

During the 1960s, the word “groove” was popular among young blacks. Webster’s Dictionary defines the verb “groove” as “to perform deftly or smoothly.” As a noun, “groove” is defined as a “fixed routine in the affairs of life.” Hence, to go against the “groove” means to work against the current establishment, and “grooving” is associated with “socializing or fellowshipping.” These combined definitions form the essence of Groove Phi Groove Social Fellowship, Inc.

Now that there is more knowledge about this organization the first thing that comes to mind will not always be “G Phi G” of School Daze but the smooth gentlemen of Groove Phi Groove.

- Carla Gibson