Panel discussion regarding new Omega Psi Phi History book.

[Wolfman]

Yes, the Weakley book was commissioned under a previous administration but was not received as "acceptable" by the powers that be and the Brotherhood. The Dreer and Gill history books are scholarly works of deep learning and critical reflection which the Fraternity stands behind and sells to new initiates and the Brotherhood at large. Not only that but there was another history book commissioned by a later administration and a manuscript produced but it was opposed by the Supreme Council because of uneven coverage of various sectors of the Fraternity, which made this effort a non-starter. Even though the author was an academic (a STEM scholar), it shows that doing this work should be carried out by trained historians. This administration ,to its credit, has typically relied on Brothers with expertise to carry out important tasks, since we have a plethora of Brothers in every field. But you understand that politics plays a role in these matters too! I am encouraged by this effort, from the serious critical scholars involved in this project to the methodological issues dealt with in implementing this project.