Since 2022, I have proudly worn the symbols of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated (Delta). Delta is a Black Greek Letter Organization committed to sisterhood, scholarship, public service, and social action.
Before law school enrollment, I noticed a “®” symbol on my Delta crewneck. Now, I’ve noticed this symbol on things like Stanley Cups. But what would it have to do with my public service sorority? During my law school admissions journey, I discovered intellectual property law (IP) which led me to realize its relation to the “®” symbol.
An Invitation to IP at Loyola
I was tempted to stay in the South for law school. However, an acceptance to Loyola University Chicago School of Law (Loyola) piqued my interest. As an Atlanta native and proud Georgia Bulldog, moving to Chicago was a big leap. I was unsure if I could adjust to the Midwest and what my legal career would look like. Little did I know one reception invitation would make my law school journey clearer.
I attended Loyola’s IP Alumni/Student Reception and Admitted Students Day in April 2024. At this reception, Professor Cynthia Ho welcomed me into the Loyola community, and reception attendees gave me tips on how to combat Chicago winter.
Additionally, I received an introduction to the world of IP from practicing attorneys and law students. I learned about patent prosecution, which is the handling of patent applications with the US Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). Unfortunately, I do not hold a STEM degree required to qualify for the patent “bar” to practice before the USPTO. Fortunately, IP law does not stop there. I learned that IP litigation in federal courts does not require a STEM background. IP litigators handle legal disputes over intellectual property rights. I was even introduced to this IP Bytes blog!
I walked away from the reception with winter coat suggestions and inspiration. I was set on Loyola and a legal career in IP. I paid my seat deposit that evening.
Talking Trademarks
Following the reception, I was on a mission to spot IP everywhere, including in my sorority. As I learned from another IP bytes post by Emma Welch, a trademark can be a word, symbol, or design that identifies and distinguishes the source of goods or services.
That means the “®” symbol I noticed on my crewneck indicated a registered trademark! Delta indeed owns several marks, such as “Delta Sigma Theta” and its Greek letter form, “ΔΣΘ.”
The membership and those with vendor licenses from the sorority have permitted use of Delta’s marks. As such, these trademarks can be found on paraphernalia such as hats, jackets, and scarves. Delta permits the exclusive use of paraphernalia by members and for sale by licensed vendors.
On the other hand, unauthorized use of Delta’s marks can lead to legal action. The sorority strives to resolve these issues without litigation. However, it has successfully obtained injunctive relief against infringers, terminating the improper use.
Marks of Honor
So, what is the importance of Delta’s trademarks? I haven’t officially studied trademarks yet, but let me tell you my thoughts. Delta’s marks are for brand protection and to limit confusion. For example, many other Greek organizations beginning with Delta, such as Delta Sigma Pi, can cause a mix-up of who is who.
However, Delta’s rich history and reputation are why distinction is essential. The Founders were among the few Black women to participate in the March for Women’s Suffrage in 1913. Today, the sorority remains a beacon for social action and progress in the Black community. Notable members such as Shirley Chisholm, Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson, and Judge Ann Claire Williams have upheld these ideals.
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated is Black history. It is an esteemed honor to bear those symbols. For these reasons, protecting Delta’s brand is of the utmost importance. Intellectual property rights help make that possible.
Without the alumni reception at Loyola, I may never have taken an interest in IP and surely would not have spotted its critical role in my sorority. Now, as a first-year law student, I have joined the Intellectual Property Law Society and gained an excellent mentor, Emily Moll.
IP at Loyola has given me many opportunities to grow professionally and appreciate my interests.
This is just the beginning! I am excited to take an intellectual property course next semester. Stay tuned!
Kendall Henry
Assistant Blogger
Loyola University Chicago School of Law, J.D. 2027