On June 8, 2007, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., the largest African-American sorority representing over 200,000 college-educated black women, inked a settlement agreement with Derek & Jamar Productions, a Brooklyn-based production company and makers of Black Sorority Project: The Exodus, a documentary film and painting about Delta and their participation in the Women’s Suffrage March.
Frances Murphy, 85, a lifetime sorority member and daughter of Delta Founder Vashti Murphy, applauded the decision. “Now that the controversy is resolved, it really clears the air and allows us to move ahead in bringing forth one of the greatest pieces ever created on sorority life to the world”
Last fall, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. filed a complaint with the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia against Derek & Jamar Productions, LLC. This spring, Derek & Jamar countered by filing a Motion to Dismiss with the U. S. District Court. Producer, Derek Fordjour explained the move towards settlement this way, “We never sought to offend the very people this project was created to honor. For this reason, we were interested in resolution from the beginning”
David Kaufman, legal counsel for Derek & Jamar echoed the sentiment, “D&J has always professed the highest possible regard for Delta, its President and its Executive Board. My clients believe that settling this dispute amicably can only be seen as a victory for both sides.”
When asked about the legal challenges, Producer Jamar White said, “Today we live in a litigious society, understandably these organizations are highly sensitive. While it’s important that they protect themselves from exploitation, it’s also important that we [artists] are able to use media to help redefine the black Greek experience [beyond hazing and stepping] in a more positive light. We’re happy that our agreement with Delta can accomplish both of these things through Black Sorority Project”
White continued, “We were just glad to learn that Delta was primarily concerned about their trademarks and an apology, not to ban the project. They [Delta] were very clear in communicating to us the fact that they never encouraged their members not to support.” As part of the proposed settlement, Derek & Jamar have posted a public apology on their website. Delta has also posted a statement on its website which acknowledges the apology and clarifies their position on the participation of its members.
Fordjour concluded, “We’re excited that everything is finally straightened out and people can participate guilt-free”. Later this month on Friday June 29th the DuSable Museum in Chicago will host an 8:00pm screening of Black Sorority Project: The Exodus, display the painting Oriented To Serve and hold a Q & A with the filmmakers. The event is free. You may register online at: www.exodustour.com
