Miami Gardens Unveils ‘Alpha Kappa Alpha Way’ in Historic Street Renaming Ceremony
On Saturday, February 8, 2025, the City of Miami Gardens celebrated a historic milestone by renaming a segment of NW 17th Avenue, between NW 183rd Street and NW 199th Street, as “Alpha Kappa Alpha Way.” This event, held during Black History Month, honored the profound legacy of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® (AKA), the nation’s first intercollegiate historically African American sorority. With each passing year, Miami Gardens continues to etch its name in history as a city that celebrates cultural heritage and acknowledges the impact of those who pave the way for future generations.
The ceremony, presented by City of Miami Gardens Councilman Reggie Leon, took place at Rolling Oaks Park, with the support of Commissioner Oliver Gilbert and Congresswoman Frederica Wilson. The event, held from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, drew a large crowd, including many local dignitaries and members of the sorority.
The event, hosted by Chelsea Jones, CBS News Anchor, was filled with pride and celebration as the community paid tribute to the impact of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, the first Greek-lettered sorority established by Black women in 1908. Jones led attendees through a heartfelt celebration of the sorority’s contributions to education, civic engagement, and social activism.
A Historic Day for Miami Gardens and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.
The renaming event was attended by several prominent Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. chapters, including Pi Delta Omega Chapter, Gamma Zeta Omega Chapter, and Alpha Gamma Delta Omega Chapter. Members from across the region gathered to celebrate this monumental recognition of their sisterhood, service, and impact on the community.
Setting the tone for the ceremony, City of Miami Gardens Councilwoman Katrina Wilson delivered a powerful statement, saying:
“We should be very, very proud of what is happening here today. For the word of God tells us that the last shall be first and the first shall be last. And so you all are bringing up the rear and closing out. What is a historic moment in this entire country where the largest Black city in the southeastern United States and South Florida has in fact made it known that we will be recorded in history.”
Adding to the momentous occasion, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated Cluster 1 Coordinator Vernique Williams reflected on the significance of the renaming, saying:
“This renaming is a testament to our unity and strength. It is a reminder that our work does not go unnoticed and that our legacy will live on not just in our actions, but in the very fabric of our community.”
A Lasting Legacy for Generations to Come
The unveiling of “Alpha Kappa Alpha Way” during Black History Month underscores Miami Gardens’ commitment to honoring African American heritage. The renaming serves as both a recognition of past achievements and a pledge to continue shaping the future through education, leadership, and service.
As the first Black Greek-letter sorority, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® has long been at the forefront of advocacy, education, and community upliftment. This street renaming ensures that their impact and contributions will be etched in history—quite literally—on the very streets of Miami Gardens.
This event was more than a celebration; it was a declaration of pride, history, and the unwavering strength of sisterhood.
