U.S. Representative Lateefah Simon Inducted as Honorary Member of Zeta Phi Beta

Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. has announced the induction of civil rights advocate and U.S. Representative Lateefah Simon as an Honorary Member. The induction took place on July 11, 2026, as part of a ceremony welcoming a distinguished class of women into the sorority’s ranks.

The Alpha Omega Chapter Class of 2026 was inducted during a special ceremony at Zeta Phi Beta’s International Grand Boulé in Nashville, Tennessee. According to the sorority, Honorary Membership is the highest recognition the sorority bestows upon non-members, reserved for women whose contributions have made a significant impact in their professions, communities, and society at large.

Lateefah Simon is a nationally recognized civil rights advocate, community organizer, and U.S. Representative for California’s 12th Congressional District. She has dedicated her career to advancing criminal justice reform, economic equality, affordable housing, voting rights, climate resilience, and equitable access to healthcare and public transportation, working to expand opportunity and protect civil rights for underserved and marginalized communities.

As an Honorary Member, Simon will support the sorority through ZOL and Z-HOPE™, developing servant leaders, advancing civic engagement, and advocating for equitable public policy.

Gina Merritt-Epps, Esq., International First Vice President for Membership, spoke to the significance of the class, stating, “The Alpha Omega Chapter recognizes extraordinary women who exemplify Scholarship, Service, Sisterhood, and Finer Womanhood, and we are honored to welcome this exceptional class into the Zeta sisterhood.”

Dr. Stacie N.C. Grant, International President & CEO of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, emphasized the significance of this distinguished class and the impact of their collective contributions. “Their achievements have inspired countless lives, and we are honored to welcome them into our sisterhood as we continue creating lasting impact together.”

Simon joins a distinguished group of women inducted into the Class of 2026, including Tennessee State Representative Karen D. Camper, Pamela Champion, Sheila E., Aliya Crawford, Dr. Grisanthia “San” Franklin, Cheryl “Coko” Gamble, Danielle Green, Taral Hicks-Dawson, Sheri Jones-Moffett, Valerie “Chef Val” Knight, Dr. Milan Love McPherson, Niecy Nash-Betts, Elise Neal, Patti Phillips, Councilwoman Nichole L. Rogers, Kellee Stewart, and Jenisha Watts.