Badge day is a day to celebrate sisterhood across our 26 panhellenic sororities and is also a time to reflect on the meaning of our badge. Our badge is a symbol and has so many different meanings to not only our sorority but also ourselves. We use our badges to display our sisterhood, the commitments we have made to our chapter and also where we come from in our sorority experience. To understand this day, we are going to learn when International Badge day first began and how it was started, what meaning our badge holds to us and how you can participate in International Badge Day

Typically held on the first Monday of March, International Badge Day has become a staple for celebrating sisterhood across the 26 Panhellenic Sororities. The campaign originally began in 1996 when a sister of Alpha Sigma Alpha, Nora M. Ten Broeck, had an idea. In the 1996 edition of the Phoenix, Broeck wrote an article that was titled: “A Simple Solution – Wear Your Membership Badge Today.” This article then further discussed her experience wearing her badge in the workplace. A year later in 1997, the National Panhellenic Conference created the “It’s as Simple as Wearing your Pin With Pride.” campaign. Today, thousands of sisters wear their pins in honor of sisterhood and commitment.

Everyone’s badge shares a different meaning to them. Some like to say they can use their badge as a way to reflect on their entire sorority experience while others are able to sum it up in one word. Alpha Sigma Alpha’s badge; traditionally given to us during the initiation process; holds members to a higher standard of commitment. We also use our badges to tell a story. Not just about what sorority or chapter we may be from but if we have held any positions, if we volunteer or even if we have worked with the sorority on a higher level. No matter what is displayed on your badge, we all have our own unique experience that will last a lifetime.

 

So, you want to participate in International Badge day but don’t know how? Here are some of my favorite ways to be involved with one of my favorite NPC holidays.

1. Simply just wear your badge! To class, to work, or any involvement activities you may have going on that day, wear your badge! Not only is it a great conversation starter; it is also a great way to connect with other sisters and spread panhellenic love!
2. You can participate in any activities NPC may be having either on a local campus, online, or even at any alumnae events.
3. Share a photo of you wearing your badge. This will allow you to feel connected with other sisters across the globe so make sure to share a pic of you with your badge!

 

International Badge Day is a wonderful day to spread love and remember the commitment each and every one of us made when we joined our respective chapters. No matter where you are in your sorority experience, you will always have a unique experience and a piece of home with you everywhere you go. International Badge day carries a unique history that is shared with all of us. Happy International Badge Day sisters! Don’t forget to share a photo of you with your badge and tag @alphasigmaalpha! We would love to see all of you in your badges!