On Sunday, November 2, 2025, the Delta Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. proudly hosted its Annual FallConcert at America’s First Cathedral—the Baltimore Basilica. The concert, presented in partnership with the Community Concert Choir of Baltimore, Inc., under the masterful direction of Brother Dr. Marco K. Merrick, brought together over 150 singers and musicians for a stirring afternoon of sacred anthems, hymns, and spirituals that filled the historic sanctuary with inspiration and purpose.
This year’s theme, “True to Our Native Land,” honored the profound cultural and spiritual heritage embodied in the music and in those who serve our community with distinction. The concert featured extraordinary solo performances and choral works such as “Go Down Moses” and “We Shall Overcome”, offering a deeply moving reflection on faith, resilience, and hope.
The evening was made especially memorable by the chapter’s posthumous tribute to Brother Dr. Kirk P. Gaddy, Sr., a devoted servant, educator, and stalwart supporter of Delta Lambda and the Community Concert Choir. His legacy of leadership, mentorship, and brotherhood was celebrated before an audience that included his family, friends, and colleagues from across Baltimore’s faith and educational communities.
In keeping with the fraternity’s mission to uplift the next generation, the program also recognized a representative group of Beaus from Delta Lambda’s Beautillion Scholars Program—young men who exemplify scholarship, leadership, and service. Their presence underscored the concert’s dual purpose: to honor our past while investing in our future.
As Delta Lambda marked its 106th Anniversary, the FallConcert once again demonstrated the chapter’s enduring commitment to cultural excellence, education, and service. Under the leadership of Chair Brother Rev. Timothy McFadden, Co-Chair Brother Dr. Anton C. Bizzell, and Chapter President Brother Min. Ryan Turner, the event not only captivated a standing-room-only audience but also raised critical funds to support Delta Lambda’s Educational Activities Programs, ensuring continued opportunities for Baltimore’s youth.
In an era defined by global uncertainty, from wars and local crime to political instability and economic volatility, the psychological toll on Black people is undeniable. The 24-hour news cycle, social media discourse, and personal connections to local and global events make detachment nearly impossible. For many, the overwhelming nature of these crises can trigger anxiety, depression, hopelessness, and stress.
Yet, amid this turbulence, resilience remains within reach. The key is not to ignore the world’s problems but to develop strategies that preserve mental well-being while staying informed and engaged.
One essential approach is boundary setting.
Doomscrolling through social media or consuming sensationalized news does little to promote meaningful awareness and often fuels distress. Instead, limiting news exposure to specific times of the day and choosing credible, balanced sources can create a more sustainable relationship with information.
Community engagement is another powerful antidote to geopolitical stress. Black people have always found their power in their collective identity. Rather than succumbing to despair, contributing to local or global causes, whether through volunteering, advocacy, or donations, can restore a sense of agency. Organizations, such as the Center for Urban Families in Baltimore, are unique places to support causes that matter to Black people and families. Connection matters. Processing concerns with friends, family, or a therapist helps prevent isolation and encourages collective coping.
Prioritizing self-care is not a luxury but a necessity.
Exercise, proper sleep, and mindfulness techniques like meditation or journaling can provide stability in times of chaos. Even small, consistent actions like walking outdoors or unplugging from screens before bed, can make a difference. While we cannot control local or global events, we can control how we respond to them. By balancing awareness with self-preservation, we ensure that we remain engaged citizens without sacrificing our well-being in the process.
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This story was written by Bro. Dr. Darius Gwynn. Dr. Gwynn is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW-C) in the state of Maryland. He has more than five years of extensive experience in therapy, crisis intervention, and psycho-education. He uses a client-centered approach in his practice which means that his clients take an active role in their healing process.
Darius earned his bachelor's degree in Finance from Bowie State University, his master’s degree in Social Work (MSW) from Howard University, and his doctorate from Morgan State University.
In the recent election, the Brothers of the Delta Lambda Chapter proudly exercised their right to vote, coming together as active citizens committed to shaping the future of our communities and country. United in purpose, they cast their ballots as an affirmation of their dedication to democracy, social justice, and the advancement of Black communities across America.
Throughout this election season, the chapter worked tirelessly to raise awareness on issues that directly impact Black Americans, from healthcare and economic equity to education and criminal justice reform. Their efforts underscored the vital importance of the Black vote in influencing policies that affect the social and economic landscapes of our communities.
Many members shared their experiences and perspectives at the polls, illustrating the power of collective action in protecting and advancing our freedoms. By participating in the democratic process, the Brothers of Delta Lambda affirmed their role as stewards of social change, embodying the values of brotherhood, justice, and community empowerment.
