Alpha Kappa Alpha, the first sorority established and incorporated by African American college women at Howard University, is joining the world in grieving over the loss of entertainer extraordinaire Michael Jackson.
Speaking on behalf of its 225,000 members in 975 chapters worldwide, AKA's International President Barbara A. McKinzie characterized Jackson as "a rare talent who comes along only once in a lifetime."
McKinzie noted that from the moment Jackson burst onto the musical scene as the youngest member of the legendary Jackson Five, through his decades as a solo performer, he was a groundbreaker.
She noted that his album Thriller remains the highest-grossing record of all time -- testimony to the power of his appeal. She added that in addition to his compelling musical sound, Jackson's signature moonwalk, and his ability to command the stage and captivate his fans only contributed to his dynamism.
"The world is united in mourning his passing because of the joy he brought to the millions who were touched by him," declared McKinzie.
In reflecting on his legacy, McKinzie said: "Michael Jackson was an icon whose musical genius earned him the moniker 'King of Pop'. As musical royalty, he ushered in a new sound that opened the musical gates for so many others who came behind him. His pioneering role in shaping R&B and an entire musical era is the gift he leaves behind."
McKinzie extended condolences to his parents, Katherine and Joseph, his siblings, his children and to Michael Jackson's legion of fans, including all members of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.
Consisting of college-educated women of African, Caucasian, Asian, Native American, and Hispanic descent, the sorority serves through a membership of more than 200,000 women in over 975 chapters in the United States and several other countries.
