Participation as Preparation: A Phenomenological Study of Black Greek Letter Organization (BGLO) Members in the Workforce

The purpose of this phenomenological study was to explore how membership in a Black Greek Letter Organization (BGLO) impacts the experiences of Black professionals in overcoming obstacles in the modern workforce. This study utilized a qualitative, phenomenological design to capture the lived experiences of 10 BGLO members working in federal military and educational organizations in the United States. Participants were recruited through purposeful sampling, and data were collected via open-ended questionnaires, semi-structured individual interviews, and a focus group. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis, which revealed four major themes: (1) Utilization of Opportunities to Overcome Workplace Challenges, (2) Cultivation of Leadership Skills, (3) Development of Resilience, and (4) Pressures in a Predominantly White Workplace. The findings highlighted that BGLO membership fosters a sense of belonging and cultivates leadership skills, contributing to resilience in navigating challenges in predominantly White professional environments. Participants emphasized the critical role BGLO membership plays in their professional development by offering support networks and leadership opportunities. These results contribute to the understanding of how BGLOs provide essential resources for African American professionals facing systemic challenges in the workforce.