The Sigma Pi Phi Fraternity was founded in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in 1904 by a group of six African American men of the medical profession. It was established for the purpose of giving educated and successful African American men a place to join in a social, spiritual, and communal bond. The fraternity, often referred to as the Grand "Boule," meaning "council of noblemen"- is considered to be the first African American Greek-letter organization. Among the fraternity's most prominent members were Martin Luther King, Jr., W.E.B. Dubois, Arthur Ashe, Ralphe Bunche, and Vernon Jordan.

Members of the fraternity are known as "Archons" and their wives are known as "Archousae." With the Grand headquarters being in New York City, there are five regional Boules representing the Northeast, Southeast, Central, Western, and Pacific regions. Within each region are local Boules. Today there are over 4,200 total members. The fraternity places emphasis on social action and education while supporting civic, charitable, and religious affairs in each Boule's respective community. Each Boule and it's members participate in youth programs and community activities designed for young people. The Boule Foundation is a substantially endowed foundation which provides educational opportunities for youths through scholarships and participation in national social programs.