Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Offers to Pay for Michael Brown’s Funeral

Standing by its commitment to justice and equality for African Americans, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. has agreed to cover all expenses for the memorial and funeral service for Michael Brown,18, who was shot and killed by a Ferguson, Missouri police officer on Aug. 9.

In a letter to members of the organization, the fraternity’s General President Mark S. Tillman called members of the organization to take action, and he informed the National Pan Hellenic that action needs to be taken nationwide in response to recent attacks on young black men.

“I also contacted the leaders of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity and Iota Phi Theta Fraternity to convene a meeting and address how our organizations can respond to this latest attack on young black men. Collectively, our organizations represent over 600,000 members and approximately 3,000 chapters. It is my intent to work with my peers to develop a unified effort on this issue,” Tillman said.

Brown’s funeral arrangements are under the direction of Austin A. Layne Mortuary, Inc., with services expected to take place Monday, Aug. 25 at Friendly Temple Missionary Baptist Church in St. Louis. Brown’s uncle, Rev. Charles Ewing will deliver the eulogy, with Rev. Al Sharpton also scheduled to speak.

Read Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. offer letter to funeral director Layne and the Brown family in full below.