When Did the AKAS Adopt the Pinky?

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. received a pivotal legal recognition for its distinctive pinky hand gesture on March 7, 2017. While the sorority's members have likely used the gesture as part of their traditions for an extended period, this date marks the official grant of a registered trademark for the symbol, solidifying its place within the organization's official identity.

Understanding the Adoption of the Pinky Gesture by Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.

The term "adopt" can refer to different stages in the integration of a symbol or gesture within an organization. For Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. (AKA), its association with the pinky hand gesture involves both its long-standing cultural use and a specific date of legal recognition and protection.

Legal Recognition and Trademark Grant

The most definitive official date concerning the pinky hand gesture for Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. is March 7, 2017. On this date, the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) formally granted the sorority a trademark for the pinky hand gesture. This landmark achievement is recognized under U.S. Reg. No. 5,153,550. This legal protection is a significant milestone, as it is widely regarded as a unique instance, believed to be the only hand sign granted as a registered trademark for a sorority.

Cultural Adoption and Historical Use

While the trademark date marks the official legal protection of the pinky gesture, the actual adoption or common use of the gesture by Alpha Kappa Alpha members as a distinctive symbol likely predates this legal milestone. The development of such organizational symbols often occurs organically within the sisterhood over time, becoming ingrained in traditions and informal practices before formal legal steps like trademarking are pursued for official recognition and protection. The provided information specifically details the trademark grant date, not the initial period of cultural incorporation.