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Steve,
You are right, every orgainzation says that they are in existance to either do community service, glorify God (and all of his psudonyms), foster sister/brotherhood ect. But if you read thier propaganda, so did the Nazis and the facist, and every other subgroup that you can think of. The proof is in the actions of the members, and you don't know what those actions were unless you do your research. While I was doing my research I ran across an article writen by a member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority who said that the reason that she chose that orgainzation was because it was founded by teachers, and she was an education major. She said that she liked what actions has come from the ideas of these 7 teachers and, though there may come a time when the orgainzation gets away from its roots, When it comes back it its founding it will be the actions of those teachers. I thought that was beautiful. You don't get that from a chapter. |
DeltaBrat. I'm glad that you didn't shun this particular girl for chosing a GLO. HOwever, in my experience you and your friends are the exception. I know quite a few people who were cut out of the pic. because they joined GLO's and not BGLO's. I wish that my knowledge concerning this issue was more like yours.
However, I disagree with your statement concerning the white/black issue and this woman you speak of. You can't say that because her and her sisters weren't tight after graduation is because of racial issues, and if that is the case with that particular situation. It is for that particular situation. The way you made your statement it seemed as though you use that one case to base why no black person should join a GLO. |
I'm black and in a GLO. My boyfriend is also white and I do not consider myself to have any black friends besides a couple guys who live in my dorm and a guy friend of my boyfriend's. To put it quite simply, black girls generally don't like me and friendships with the few that do never develop. That is why I didn't even consider joining a BGLO. The thought crossed my mind for a brief second but that is all. Every girl in my sorority has been very welcoming, and the black/white issue has never come up.
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Corbin, I feel the same as you. I think every sorority/fraternity has excellent records of service, and not just "propaganda." The contribution of these organizations, on the national level, has been significant. And I also feel that my sorority is changing. Frankly, I am part of many things (schools and organizations) that would not have admitted me because of my color however many years ago. Hell, who am I kidding? I am in Korea teaching English and to put it frankly, most parents would like to have their students taught by people with white faces. Many parents feel black people simply cannot speak "proper" English. I know that, and did it make me say, "well, since some people feel/felt that way, I'm not going to take advantage of it?" Certainly not. I choose in all areas of my life that which I desire for myself, and that which suits me, regardless of the ignorant opinions of others.
And while I have strong feelings for my sorority, they do spring from my feelings for my chapter. We are the only chapter in California. We are trying to get an alumnae chapter in California going as well. So basically, 99% of the time I will spend with AST members will be from my chapter or from the alumnae chapter we are trying to get started. We, like everyone else, have bonds with sisters across the country who share our letters because we took the same oaths, went through the same processes, and share "secrets." We all contribute to the same national philanthropy, have the same ceremonies, etc. But all my *real* experience has been through my chapter and through the people there. Should I move to another state and there is an alumnae group there, I will definitely participate and will *want* to participate, but that desire comes from my chapter, if you see what I'm trying to say. [This message has been edited by mwedzi (edited August 09, 2000).] |
I agree somewhat with DeltaBrat and Discogodess...
too often we say what we think will be easy to stomach... and maybe I stand on the side of the militant...probably alone but I'm going to speak my peace!!! I do think that there is a problem when black people pledge white organizations...white organizations who did not want you...and given the racial problems of the past 100 years...how can any of these organizations teach unity in sisterhood or brotherhood...there is no common experience to tie us...I don't mean to be rude or mean...but I think that black people who join these organizations or culturally and racially unconscious...many of these students can't tell prejudice from popcorn, thats my own personal experience as i went to a traditionally white liberal arts college! I don't think that white folks should pledge BGLOs...how can you understand that experience...how can you bond with that culture...our organizations are inately rooted in our culture as white organzations are rooted in their cultures... I question any white person who wants to serve in my community...whats your purpose...and why do you want in?...I'm not interested in having tokens in the Frat. Some will see it as validation (as many trad. white orgs do)...but BGLO don't need that...our record stands alone... ask any Delta about their founders walking in the back of the suffrage march in 1913... ask any Kappa about lodging at Indiana University in 1911 ask any Alpha about fair classrooms and alienation in 1906 ask any AKA about the Mississippi health projece in the 1920's you better ask em', and have them sit down and tell you about service...but also about their people... so yes, I'm mad when eligible black candidates turn their backs on our WONDERFUL and BEAUTIFUL orgs...and we have white young people beating down our doors to join! There is something intuitively wrong with that picture. It's a shame in many cases and in many ways... I'm sorry if I have offended anybody...but I just thought this was necessary... In the spirit of ALPHA, I am, Ice Cold Kreator |
Ice Cold Kreator,
Three questions: When you say white organizations, do you mean as in the social NIC/NPC, or does it include professional, honorary, and service GLOs? I need clarificaton. Also, do you like the fact that blacks join non-NPHC GLOs like Beta Phi Pi, Delta Psi Chi, Gamma Phi Eta, Xi Gamma Phi, and Phi Alpha Psi, or do they fall in the same category as the white organization b/c they haven't been around as long the the NPHC orgs? Also, when you say blacks turn their backs on BGLOs, could it be because the orgs in question don't make their GLOs conducive to recruiting? Just had to ask... Da Rain Man |
Rain Man...
my concern is primarily with social greek letter orgs... yes, I would say that they fall in the same category unless black (and people of color) have developed and lead that org on all levels... what do yo mean we don't recruit...that's not true!...we may not do it the same way Sigma Chi does it or Tri-Delta...but we look for viable candidates...and we ask that they seek us out too! It's kind of different. hope that answers your question |
I've been reading these posts for a while and well here's my take on things. I am an African-Am. woman and I'm in neither a white sorority or a black one. I'm in a multicultural org--our sorority was founded upon the principles of promoting multiculturalism specifically. Therefore, I have sisters from all different cultures, ethnicities, etc.
Now although I am apart of this type of org, I can understand where those that are in BGLOs are coming from. When I do see someone who is white or another race who belongs to BGLOs, I often question their motive. As any black person will tell you, being black is a very different experience than being white, Indian, Asian or whatever. For example, I have a lot of white friends cuz I went to a predominantly white high school. When I was there, I can't count the number of times that I was questioned about things like "oh, how do black girls get their hair braided" or "how do you guys get a perm but it ends up straight, not curly" or "what are greens or what is 'soul food'". Now, these questions were fortunately directed to me in a nice, polite way in their attempts to understand what my culture was and/or did. And I had no problem answering them. But my point is: WE ARE DIFFERENT! After explaining these things to them the best I could, sometimes, by the looks on their faces, I could tell that they just didn't get it! I'm sure black people in here can back me up on this cuz I'm sure at one point or another, we've had to explain to someone of another culture what we do or why we do something. For me that's no problem and I'm sure that's not a problem for many other black people as well. However, in saying all this, I can easily see why black people would want to join a black greek org and why it's kinda weird to see a white person belong to a BGLO. While the majority of joining a greek org (white or black) is about doing community service, creating an everlasting bond w/ your brother/sister, etc, etc, it's also about finding a group in which you will connect w/ others period. While some people are fine w/ connecting on a level of "oh we like the same things, share the same interests, etc", some people want another type of connection....one that is more of a cultural connection. Now for me, I feel I can connect w/ anyone no matter what race/color/ethnicity they are. I personally like to find out about different cultures and what they do. That's why joining a multicultural sorority was right up my alley. Hey, I'm also an anthropology major for goodness sakes! http://www.greekchat.com/forums/ubb/smile.gif But that's just me and I'm sure there are others like that as well (hey, my sisters to be in fact!) But there are others that want to be w/ people that will really really understand where they are coming from on that level I mentioned. For some black people, that may mean that they need/desire to be around other black people. So that they not only have a connection through their sister/brotherhood and share things that are in common, but they also get a cultural connection. Now, when a person of a different race, in particular a white person, wants to join a BGLO, then a black person may tend to question what is their motivation. It's b/c although people CAN have things in common w/ one another and can be sisters/brothers in a greek org, a white person (Asian, Indian, etc) will never be able to fully understand the cultural experience a black person goes through. Just like black people will never be understand what the cultural experience of a white person. This can also be reversed when you see black people joining white greek orgs. But like I said, that may not matter to those people. Maybe they are just looking for what I like to call a surface connection, meaning: that person just wants to find a group in which they can feel comfortable w/ and share common interests as well as share in the ideals/purpose of that sister/brotherhood and they don't mind not having that cultural connection w/in their org. And that's totally fine but maybe others don't possibly see it as such. A black person in BGLO may think "what could this white person possibly have in common culturally with black people?" I'm not sure if that's what black people in BGLOs are saying, I'm just giving a scenario or possible thought. Now don't get me wrong, I have no problems with blacks joining white greek orgs or vice versa. I'm just saying that I can see where blacks in BGLOs are coming from with this. I hope this made sense somewhat. Anyone feel free to ask me to clarify things cuz I know I probably said something confusing. I just think overall, there are people that need to connect with others on a level that goes beyond what your organization stands for, ya know? For me, yeah I'm in a multicultural org and I love all my sisters to death! However, I still communicate with my black friends inside and outside of the sorority b/c there are just some things that my other ethnic sisters won't get. I can try to (and I do) help them to understand. But sometimes, you just to want or need to talk about things, specifically cultural things, that are more common among people of your ethnicity/race WITH people of your ethnicity/race. Does that make sense? Is anyone feeling me on this? Holla! [This message has been edited by ZChi4Life (edited August 09, 2000).] [This message has been edited by ZChi4Life (edited August 09, 2000).] |
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Kymberleigh (nice spelling, too): Yes! That's exactly what I was saying and I stand by that notion that it was, maybe not because of her race DIRECTLY, but indirectly that there was not a bond between she and her sisters. ZChi actually put it in great words that there is simply differences between the cultures. For whatever reason, I think the difference was pronounced in her case with her sisters lack of support during a time when she really needed it. This is NOT the only case that I have seen at my college campus. Unfortunately, many black people who join GLOs feel that if race isn't brought up, then is not an issue (someone said that but I can't see the posts and I can't remember). That's BS. Just because race isn't brought up doesn't mean it isn't an issue. It is. That, in my eyes, is a black person who is assimilating. Race is an issue. It has been from day one. Now we're accepted into other organizations, to have a "If you don't bring up me black-ness than I won't" type attitude is NUTS! Finally, Ice Cold...why am I feeling your every statement?!?!?! And ZCHI...yes, I was feeling what you were saying...very much so. Oh yeah, and Rain Man...where you been? The process of a BGLO is no more elusive than the process of joining a lot of organizations. It is not that we do not seek members, and shouldn't be used as an excuse to seek membership in a GLO. If that were the case we wouldn't have any members as is. In retrospect, when I think about how I had to literally SEARCH for Delta, everything I needed to know was right in front of me. Some people see it, some don't. The ones who do will be able to seek and find the answers to questions CRUCIAL in life, those happen to be the people most BGLOs and seeking. The others who want the answers to be written down and handed to them will fall by the wayside...you can guess the rest... I know people who have been denied membership in certain BGLOs and are STILL trying...one graduated and is in grad school...she is now interested in alumnae. She didn't say "Oh, I'll join XYZ Sorority because the XYZs won't tell me straight out when the rush is, where it is, what to wear, what to say, when the next line is, who made it, how they choose members, what the GPA requirement is....I could go on and on, obviously http://www.greekchat.com/forums/ubb/eek.gif Alright...I'm done. PEACE to ALL!!! [This message has been edited by DELTABRAT (edited August 09, 2000).] [This message has been edited by DELTABRAT (edited August 09, 2000).] |
Thanks DELTABRAT, I'm glad someone was cuz I know I said a lot.
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DeltaBrat,
I'm sorry that your campus is that way. I'm even more upset for your godbaby's mom, cuz that just isn't right. Her sisters are sad. But, please don't take you're campus's issues as the reality for the whole. Because I've met quite a few black NPC members who love their house, and are still tight with their sisters after graduate. Love Ya, Kymberleigh Delta Epsilon Delta Delta Delta |
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what do yo mean we don't recruit...that's not true!...we may not do it the same way Sigma Chi does it or Tri-Delta...but we look for viable candidates...and we ask that they seek us out too! It's kind of different. hope that answers your question[/B][/QUOTE] I am not saying that NPHC orgs do not recruit, but to the college world at large, it seems that NPHC recruitment is done in such a nebulous way, it is almost as if such orgs do not want new members. It's kinda like the non-NPHC world sees the NPHC recruitment as "Yeah, we're here. You just gotta find us and tiptoe around the bush to learn how to become one of us." Now I know the ins and outs and the reasons and intricacies of recruitment and membership and intake and whatnot, but many people do not know, add that to the fact that the etiquette involving the process b/t expressing membership interest and being initiated is often given by word of mouth and secondhand info, which is what I think creates a lot of confusion and thus creates a VERY foggy line between the NPHC Greeks and prospectives. Again, because no book has been written to address such (a Black Greek equivalent to the book "From Here to Fraternity" by Robert Egan would be EXCELLENT for starters), to many, the whole Black Greek experience just seems to be too d@mn confusing to deal with. To that effect, I cannot fault those who join White GLOs for that. Now those who just want to assimilate is another story and is beyond the scope of this thread. But rest assured, those interested that want to carry on the light of the BGLO of their choice will do so in due time. Just my .25 Da Rain Man |
DeltaBrat I FEEL YOU!!!
Rain Man...nothing in life is easy...and interested people come searching for the light of BGLetterhood...you aren't handed it. And we do have books...very old books. Those too, must be sought after... Frat Bro Lawrence Ross has written an excellent book about our organizations called the Divine Nine...almost all of our organizations have published history books that will make it easy to understand us....we have web pages...and not only that...our organizations are deep with people...in fact, its not really that hard to find a BGLO because our ALUMNI usually remain ACTIVE and/or proud of their LETTERS. It's a little different, you see... One should never settle...as this is a decision that can effect the rest of your life... When I was an undergrad, I joined a men's a cappella group b/c that was the closest thing we had to greeks on our campus...same idea/concept...commrodorie...college-long...elite...the whole 7...however, when I became a junior, I realized that ALPHA PHI ALPHA was what I wanted to join...and I could do so through a metro chapter... Thank GOD my settling didn't leave me stranded with what I thought was a second-rate brotherhood until I could get to my FIRST Choice... I know that's kinda roundabout...but I hope it sheds some light on my feelings... A PHIIIIIIIIIIIII!!!!!!--to all my Bruhz, MUCH LOVE The Ice Cold Kreator... "The World Can Be A Very Cold Cold Place" |
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Not being an AKA, I am nor Ms. Singh's soror; she not being an A.S.K., she isn't a Sister; however she is a behen by virtue of our common heritage. Am I proud that Indian women are as strong, ambitious, and as successful as ever? You bet! Way to go, Ritu-behen! http://www.greekchat.com/forums/ubb/smile.gif You make us all proud. ------------------ equeen A Lioness has her Pride! @>--;-- Alpha Sigma Kappa - Women in Technical Studies |
ZChi, I am an anthropolgy major, too. My organization is predominantly white, nationally speaking. But my chapter, though not called so, might as well be what you call a "multi-cultural" organization. And as I said in another post, most of my feelings for my organization come from my experiences with my chapter even though it is a national org.
Now to those who think it is so "sad" that I, a black woman, pledged a (nationally) predominantly white organization, I neither desire nor need the sympathy. No, I never thought that not talking about race meant race was not an issue. It was never our policy in our chapter to not talk about race. Our chapter mostly consisted of people who, in the US, are numerical minorities, and our individual cultures were very visible in our daily lives and we made no attempt to hide them, diminish them, or ignore them. Nor do I think that joining a black organization means race is no longer an issue in your life. I'm sorry, but I have to speak my mind (we all say "i'm sorry" when we are about to be honest/possible offensive, but I don't think any of us are really sorry). I get downright angry when people say that black people who spend a lot of their time outside of the black community don't know what it is to be black or don't know the black experience or are trying to be white (that's basically what people mean when they use that nice term "assimilate"). How could those of us who so often end up the only or one of the few black faces in the room forget we are black? That idea is ridiculous. It is impossible to forget, and I doubt most of us would want to, anyway. Not only do we not forgot, but we can see the contrast because we are in the prescence of others from different cultures. I know that atmosphere bothers some, and if they feel uncomfortable or that they cannot have a tight bond because of it, then so it is. For them. We are told that there is no need to be defensive or that no one is being offensive, but frankly, I see it all the time on this board. Just because it is said nicely doesn't mean it isn't offensive. Just because someone goes back and says "i didn't mean any harm" doesn't make it not an assault on someone's beliefs and values. Just because one says it ain't doesn't really mean it ain't. I strongly value the fact that my chapter (which is, in all truth, where I will have 99% of interaction with my sorority) had so many different colors, countries, languages and what not represented in it. It was one of the reasons I chose it, and the same has been said from other sisters who joined us. I gained so much from that fact. I learned so much that I would not have learned otherwise. And with that said, I'm done. |
I find this particular thread interesting. I'm the secretary of a new local sorority at my university, whose motto is 'United in Diversity'. Some of us rushed, were even offered bids, but we dissatisfied when we didn't find what we were looking for in the sororities on campus.
I attend a university outside of Baltimore w/ a high commuter population. We're constantly reminded that TU is consistently included on Playboy's top 10 list of colleges with the hottest girls. I personally get sick and tired of feeling intimidated by bleach-blonde girls with lots of makeup that I can't relate to. Not to say that they aren't great people, but I am nothing like them. And I didn't like feeling that if I can't be like them, I wasn't what their sorority was looking for. Biologically, I am 1/2 Middle-Eastern/North African (Tunisia). My mother is white. My step/adoptive father is Japanese. My siblings are 1/2 Japanese. I was raised 'upper middle class white'. I grew up in a suburban New England where for the most part, everyone -- including 'minorities' "acts and talks white". I would love to say that I'm not prejudiced at all. But we all are. I don't see people of color as anything but people when they talk, act, and think in a way that is consistent with how and where I was brought up. But I will admit that I do see people who perpetuate stereotypes as a color. I lived in Baltimore City for a few months with an African-American woman my age who I did not relate to at all. She wasn't in school, her mother had never been married, many of her friends had children. How she grew up made my family look like billionaires. At first I was all excited about what a great experience it would be for me. We even got along incredibly well at first. But as time went on, the socio-economic rift between us became glaringly obvious. Communication was almost impossible, and the whole situation was very uncomfortable. Which was disappointing... I like to think that everyone truly is equal and can get along, but it's not so simple as that ideal. My point is this: someone made the point that the #1 motive for pledging a particular sorority should be that you feel comfortable there. I agree. I hate to make this a racial issue, but it kind of is. For example: a woman of African descent who grew up in a predominantly white area will most likely feel the more comfortable in a predominantly white sorority. My organization is an infant in Greek-dom. We are really trying to affiliate with a national in the next year or so, and have a particular one in mind. Our 2000-2001 recruitment is going to be intensive all across campus, but we are making special efforts to advertise is the Black Student Union and Office of Diversity Resources. Why? Well, there are 2 'historically black colleges' in the immediate area. We do have 7 NPHC GLO's on campus, and I'm sure that many of the African-American students on campus who are interested in Greek Life are happy with them. But it's quite possible that there are some who feel limited by and to the NPHC orgs. It's HIGHLY uncommon for blacks to rush the 'white' fraternities and sororities on our campus, because the university climate tends to restrict those to 'Barbie and Ken' types. We're trying to do something different. I'm going to be real with all of you and tell you this: My sorority is down to 5 sisters. We are the Alpha class. At one point, we were up to 12 members, but there were commitment issues. It seemed that some of our recruitees only wanted to wear letters w/o having to go through rush or doing any work. They didn't want to participate except when they felt like it, and ended up dropping out fairly quickly. It's frustrating. We have many obstacles. And I might have dropped out too, if I didn't believe so strongly in what myself and my sisters are trying to do. One thing that really impresses me is that of the 5, there is myself (Catholic from a suburban Epcot center), two Caucasian women (Protestant, I think), an Indian/Hindu woman, and a Thai woman. Yet we are very close, have fun, and work well together. It's like home for me. And living 500 miles from my actual home, where I have lost touch with most of my high school friends and only have the opportunity to visit my family once a year, it's just what I need. http://www.greekchat.com/forums/ubb/smile.gif You can check out Theta Sig's site at http://www.geocities.com/thetasigmaalpha. ------------------ Amanda M. Secretary/Social Chair Theta Sigma Alpha,Towson University |
Mwedzi--Anthro rules, does it not? hehehe http://www.greekchat.com/forums/ubb/smile.gif I don't meet too many anthro peeps, so I had to say something!
Anyway, to the topic. Mwedzi, you bring up some good points and I'm feeling you on some stuff. Especially the Quote:
Now, as far as what you were saying about your org. You said (and this is just the gist, so forgive me if I get it wrong) but you said your sorority might as well be "multicultural"....and that's the reason you chose it. Ok, well that's cool. But I think that for some black people in BGLOs, they might not think of there being much mixture in traditionally white greek orgs. I know when I think of the NPC/IFC groups on my campus, I think pretty much that they are all white. So maybe in your case, this does not really apply. But on my campus, out of the NPC and IFC, the minorities involved in those is about 2%. Not much diversity right? Then again, the total Greek popul. is like 15%--so maybe it's not that bad. Nonetheless, it's not great either. I know there are 2-3 black men in the IFC groups and there are 30 IFC groups on my campus. Uh, can we say "where is the mixture?" So I think that is what most black peeps in BGLOs are thinking of when talking about this issue; that the black people who join NPC/IFC orgs are joining ones that are virtually all white--maybe one minority here and there. But I can't really speak for everyone else on that so, forgive me if I put words in someone else's head. Now I don't know about your campus, so maybe where you go it's different and it's not uncommon for a black,asian,indian, etc to join a NPC/IFC org. At my school as you can see, it's pretty taboo. Then again, we have white, black, latino/a, asian and now a multicultural greek orgs. Oops, we have an Indian fraternity too. We are just all segregated aren't we? http://www.greekchat.com/forums/ubb/rolleyes.gif Oh and w/ my org (just to make it clear) we are not a NPC sorority that looks multicultural. Nope, we were founded by an ethnically mixed group of women and our principles/goals/ideals/ are to promote and foster multiculturalism/diversity and education (specifically multicult. education) to our communities. So we are multicultural in every sense of the word. My sisters and I represent around some 60+ different ethnicities and we're still growing! Just wanted to make that clear http://www.greekchat.com/forums/ubb/smile.gif peace ya'll |
This is a very interesting subject indeed. As most everybody knows I am non-greek doing tons of research right now trying to find the "right sorority" for me.
I have nothing but love for all BGLO/LGLO/MCGLO/GLO but I feel that I would be cheating myself if I just limited my research to just BGLO's. (Before everyone jumps down on my back,hear me out) I started my research on different organizations back in 96. I had always grown up hearing about AKA,Delta, and Zeta.(not so much Sigma Gamma Rho cause there weren't many chapters around) So when I started doing research I wanted to see what other organizations were out there. And as everybody who read this knows, there are a lot of organizations to choose from. http://www.greekchat.com/forums/ubb/smile.gif Greeklife is not for everybody,so to make sure that this is something that I wanted to do, I went thur Formal Rush at LSU last year. I was the only African-American female who rushed last year and while I was cut after the second round, it's an experience I'll never forget. Nothing bad happened. In fact I was shown nothing but kindness when I was went thur rush. Believe me, I thought long and hard before I made my decision to rush: -what would the other black students think if they saw me wearing XYZ instead of MNO -if I had gotten a bid,how comfortable would I feel around my "sisters" -if I had gotten a bid, how comfortable would my "sisters" feel around me In the end,everything worked itself out. There is a place for me in a GLO,just maybe not one on LSU's campus. I'm happy that there are places like this and www.greekpages and localsororities' website to help me continue my research. I feel like I'm weird because my heart isn't geared toward a BGLO. I could choose one if I were forced to,but I would be happy.(and I have spent to much time on this not to be happy with my final choose). I'm just glad that I there is a place like this for me to read and see that there are other people out there who felt the way I do and so they made a decision that was right for them. |
Rain Man,
You're story was deep. Really deep. I've been doing research for 4 years so I the GLO that I pledge be it BGLO,LGLO,MCGLO,or GLO be the I'm happy with. Cause like I said before,i don't want to choose something that I'm not going to be happy with (especally after doing this much research for such a long time) |
ZChi, I like how you're able to see multiple points of view. And I suppose a campus with chapters 98% white must look strange when they have their one or two minorities, but hey, whatever floats your boat. I don't know their lives, experiences, or thoughts.
BTW, my chapter is in east LA, so the traditional majority was definitely the minorty there. |
Prospectiverushee- LSU is a very deep South school. Were you a freshman when you rushed? Are there any minorities in the NPC orginizations there? Do you feel you were cut simply because of your race? Did you eliminate any houses yourself? As an outsider, I can hardly see how that experience was positive. I think it shows that racism still exist in a place of higher education in this new century. Sorry for all the questions. I am just very interested in learning about how much race still plays into NPC rush at certain schools.
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In my last couple of post I don't think I was very clear about my experience when I rushed. I went into rush without any expectations. I wasn't expecting to get a bid. If I hadn't gooten one,then fine. If not that was great to. Rush was like an experiment for me. I wanted to see if I had the guts to do it since I tend to talk myself out of things, and I wanted to see what it was like. I had always wanted to know what it would be like and now I know. I don't thing my race had anything to do with me not being offered a bid. There could have been a number of factors. Such as: -me being a upperclassman(I'm a senior) -my gpa isn't the greatest -finances(the sororites here cost a grip and my money situation wasn't the greatest at the time) -my campus activites.(I'm not as active as I should be cause I work and carry a full time load) Don't get me wrong, my race could have had some part in it to and I'm not going to sit here and say that it hadn't crossed my mind. But if I keep thinking that way,then it would turn me off of the Greek System for good. Instead, I choose to think that it was there(LSU's)loose and that there is a sisterhood out there for me. |
I truly have to say I am impressed with this entire string and with everyone who is so willing to express their personal opinion. Even if we don't agree, and least there is a discussion happening. http://www.greekchat.com/forums/ubb/biggrin.gif
Personally - I am a Black women raised in Latin America, Asia, and Europe, and it has been damn hard to find a sorority I felt comfortable with. I was raised in such a diverse cultural environment that pledging the GLOs and BGLOs at the schools I attended (one very southern, one an HBCU)almost seemed absurd. I had very little in common with either group, though "racially" I was Black...and told by MANY that "culturally" I was White (whatever that means):rolleyes. These campuses didn't have Latina, Asian, or Multicultural orgs. and the people I did have a great deal in common with weren't into sororities anyway. It's only now, after searching for 10 years, that I have found an organization which, I believe, accepts me for who I am and what I stand for. http://www.greekchat.com/forums/ubb/biggrin.gif In essence, you must go with what's in your heart. Be true to who YOU are! Not matter which organization you join, in the end, it's not about race... it's about friendship. |
Perhaps I've been lucky in that my GLO's chapter has a rich cultural diversity...I'm just a Sister to my Sisters. Perhaps as minorities we (minority Sisters) empathize better with each other. However, I don't think that's the case - even to my "majority" Sisters, I'm a Sister. If anyone brings up heritage or culture, it's because we choose to enrich our knowledge of each other as individuals, therefore grow as Sisters. (This sounds incredibly idealistic, certainly, however this is definitely one of the best advantages of being in a small, close-knit Chapter. http://www.greekchat.com/forums/ubb/smile.gif)
Ethnicity/culture isn't an issue in identifying me as a Sister, whereas my role within the the Sisterhood and Chapter definitely is. As far as outside my GLO...well, I don't really care what I'm identified as. http://www.greekchat.com/forums/ubb/smile.gif As long as my Sisters and I are comfortable with each other, what else matters? http://www.greekchat.com/forums/ubb/biggrin.gif OK, having said that: alpha1906, I think your assessment rings true for GLOs (or any organization, really) where minority members are either chosen as, or just happen to be, token members. I also understand that ethnic/culture-based GLOs (and organizations) are a support structure for people of the particular ethnicity/culture. As a minority, I concurr that minorities (myself included) need strong cultural structure to maintain and affirm my ethnic identity. My personal choice as far as maintaining that socio-cultural structure and support happens to be through non-greek organizations (including but not limited to my family, and city-wide cultural organizations). I would say that greek life is definitely a positive way to be supportive of one's culture/ethnicity, yet it's not the only way to do so. With all the opportunities within greekdom as well as through non-greek organizations, if I can be supportive of my culture through non-greek orgs., and supportive of other ideals that are equally important to me through greek life, then I can accomplish the most in my life (and in others' lives) by affiliating with a greek. org that's not necessarily culturally based, yet supports ideals equally important to me. This doesn not mean I've turned my back on my heritage, or reject it in any way. It infinitely enriches my life (and others' lives) to be involved with my family, temple, a community Indian association, as well as a community Hindu association. I've grown (and helped others grow) and affirmed that women can succeed and not be alone in our quest for excellence, as students and as professionals in technical fields, through my Sisterhood (Alpha Sigma Kappa - Women in Technical Studies). I don't at all refute the choice of members in BGLOs, LGLOs, AAGLOs, MCGLOs...as you can tell, I am all for supporting, promoting, and living one's heritage, and if greek life is the best avenue for someone to promote and sustain their heritage, I'm all for it! Yet I certainly do want to bring to light on why a minority may choose to go the GLO route, even if a greek organization of their culture/ethnicity exists. ------------------ equeen A Lioness has her Pride! @>--;-- Alpha Sigma Kappa - Women in Technical Studies [This message has been edited by equeen (edited August 14, 2000).] [This message has been edited by equeen (edited August 14, 2000).] |
I completely understand where you're coming from, alpha1906. It's tough being a minority on a predominately White campus. But, it was just as difficult for me to be at an HBCU. While I learned a great deal about myself and my culture, I still had to do the same explaining there I did at the other school I attended. If not more so. The sorority I "fell in love with" happens to be multicultural, and it truly embraces who I am, not just what I am.
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Phoenix,
May I ask the name of your sorority? If you don't wanna post, you can email it to me. |
Tiara98:
I must disagree with your assertion: "For example: a woman of African descent who grew up in a predominantly white area will most likely feel the more comfortable in a predominantly white sorority." For me, and several women I made, that is incorrect. Having been raised in all- or nearly all-white environments my entire life, I was only too happy to seek out Alpha Kappa Alpha the minute I stepped onto my nearly all-white college campus. To all: I think the decision to align oneself with those primarily outside (or inside) one's culture is a conscious choice. No harm if you choose either one, just be straight up about what you're doing. DG |
To Each, Their Own.
------------------ I have sold my soul to the evil corporate world. I'm quite happy about it. -Anynomous |
Hey,
On my campus there is no separation of color really when it comes to frats. historically white frats have black, latino and all colors of guys in there frat.I am in a historically white sorority and I am not mocked and neither are those guys. I guess I just go to an open minded school. kdlady |
I am an African American woman in a predominatey white sorority and I have never and will never regret my decision. I feel sort of the way haley does. Black women have always ostracized me for not being "black enough". Well, truthfully, I am not and am happy the way I am. I like hard rock and classical, abhor rap and r&b, all of my friends have always been white, I speak properly and do not use lingo, I carry myself with respect and if that is seen as not being "black", well COOL! I have been called an "Uncle Tom", an "Oreo", a sell-out. And guess what, it doesn't bother me. Those attitudes just make me glad I made the choice I did even more. I have been questioned about my choice by everyone from national officers to my parents. I caused a ruckus at my convention a few years ago because not only was I the only African American to be there, everyone wanted to talk to me about how to attract more minorities to their chapters, and that made me feel good! PROUD TO BE A SIGMA 3!!!!! http://www.greekchat.com/forums/ubb/biggrin.gif
[This message has been edited by sigmagrrl (edited September 25, 2000).] |
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As long as you are happy within yourself, what others say to/about you won't matter and will roll right off your back! Do your thing! http://www.greekchat.com/forums/ubb/biggrin.gif |
I don't think that's really an issue at my school. Well first of all, there are either NO black women who join NPC sororities or there are VERY few. But there are many people of Asian and Hispanic descent in the NPC sororities. I myself am half Puerto Rican and I just joined Sigma Sigma Sigma, and no one criticizes me for it http://www.greekchat.com/forums/ubb/smile.gif And if a black woman wanted to join, I don't think she would encounter any issues.
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I found it! Back to the top.
Kelli, this is for you Rain Man |
THis was an interesting thread.
All these black women talking about how they have been ostracized by other black folks. I am absolutely boggled. I attended a predominately white school all my life I like rock, and classical, and roots, as well as r&b and rap I have never been a "typical" anything, and don't believe such things exist. All of that stuff is the outer shell of the person that you are. So here is my belief, and I won't bother apologising for it because no one ever really means it when they do: If you as a black person don't have ANY black friends, you have a problem. Forget about the school you go to, the region you live in, or where you grow up. Excuses are tools of the incompetent, and they build monuments of NOTHINGNESS. I find it impossible to believe that you're not doing it to yourself. THere are black people who like opera, who attend majority white schools, who don't speak slang and have never eaten a collard green (that would be me, ick) and we still know and love who we are. Part of loving me is loving my people. Loving them is knowing them. Doesn't mean I have to participate in all the cultural traditions, but I can appreciate them. How can you say that you do not even appreciate that, and then avow that you don't have a problem with yourself? I think that these individuals are kidding themselves. Wake up! You don't have to love ALL black folks. You don't have to actively seek us out. But stop segregating yourself from your own, because the only person you hurt is yourself! |
Ok, I am kinda lost on this , so sorry if i offend anyone, and if I doI am sorry and don't mean too.
When you go out for rush, or for interest meetings, why should you only go because they are"your own" I don't agree with any of that. http://www.greekchat.com/forums/ubb/mad.gif That feels like we are being pushed back time wise. When you pick an org, whether it's a GLO,BGLO,MCGLO,LGLO or any other organization, hopefully you are choosing this org to represent you as a person, and u like what this org stands for,how they do it, what they acomplish, and whats in your heart. I feel as though if you are only picking an org because they relate to you race wise then you totally miss the whole concept of being greek. Some people have a problem with black females and males being apart of glo's that are not BGLO's. But so what , like everyone says not every org is for every person. Just because you are black, does not grant you automatic membership into a BGLO.So therefore, we all find a place to hang our hat and call home. It should be about what makes YOU happy and no one else, cause in the end we all are reaching for the same goal One and Much Greek Love to all http://www.greekchat.com/forums/ubb/smile.gif |
Maybe I should clarify....
I have no problem with black folks who join WGLO's. If that is where you fit, then that is where you fit and more power to you. My beef was with posters on the board who say they have NO black friends at all. That is really sad, and they are missing out. |
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Greek love to one and all DGPhoney |
LOL.
I agree with you, that is highly untrue! And anyone who thinks it is is either: a. deluded -or- b. knows the WRONG chapter, one that is not about business |
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What test? Stereotypes of what it means to be black have little if anything to do with reality, and while you WILL find some black folk on "soul patrol" I think there are plenty who will accept you for yourself, with no conditions as to how you behave.
Are you sure that you are not doing it to yourself? Are people really checking to see if you "fit"? Or are you merely stereotyping the first? I know more than a couple of people (black, white, gay, whatever) who were afraid to approach me because they thought I would judge them, when really I am the last one to do so! So I just think you need to re-examine your own perceptions before you make accusations of things you might be guilty of yourself.... |
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