Rashid,

If you have a family with thousands and thousands of brothers, a few gems like yourself will shine. And a few of the "crazy uncles in the basement" will also be there. When I think of Alpha, I prefer to think of gentlemen like yourself who give your brotherhood such a good name.

I think you are far too hot also...

Also, many of the BGLO's need to own up to their members they have in them, including my own Sorority... Don't get me wrong, I love my AKA, like any other BGLO loves their org. However, we take in some fools that act a fool, then we take noble men, such as yourself that portray the quintessence of what "fraternity" out to be--especially in the African American community...

I like the Alpha room when there are folks in there. I've known some guys there a long time. However, it hurts to see that you are mocked for how you choose to live, out in the open as a gay black man that is an Alpha that came in through legal processes... What is wrong with your picture? You are working in your chapter, starting on your career as a writer and you get flack from your brothers????

How strongly do you feel about revocation of your membership? Because that can happen... But my question is why? And would you let some fools get the best of you like that there? Hey, some of my own chapter sorors act foolish to me ALL the time and I am a 15 year member!!! :eek:

notice the lack of _____'s?

:(

Angels? :D

Imperial1

Sistermadly: *Standing Ovation* If I agreed with you any more, we'd be the same person. :)

Taualumna: Thanks Cynthia! Hey, don't forget to keep me in the loop about your project.

AstroAPhi: "You're the shit" is probably my favorite compliment in life. :D And oh yeah, I've got plenty pics on my website in the gallery -- just click the little "www" at the end of my posts.

ZTAMich, do you know that Pre-K is the ONLY grade I haven't subbed for yet??? I really want to, but they keep getting other subs!

33girl: Awwwww. Yeah, the S is why I pledged, but the F is why I stayed. ;)


ADqtPiMel: Thank you so much....I am going to save that quote (and many others from this thread) and keep them someplace safe if I ever need to be reminded again.

Dionysus: I really appreciate what you said. And I've been reflecting a lot on how unconditional the love from my APO brothers has been, in good times and in bad.

moe.rom: We talked before, but I love this quote too. Thank you man.

MaMaBuddha, you KNOW you are my girl. I really have so much respect for you and in many ways, you're like a role model in what I strive to be as a gay Greek.

texas*princess, I appreciate the echo. I feel your good vibes.

PhiPsiRuss, I nearly spit my water out on my keyboard at the "crazy uncle in the basement" remark. I appreciate the positivity man, I really do.

AKA_monet, as usual, I am feeling everything you're saying. We're here: -----><------- I just want you to know that I don't consider my decision (based strictly on Greek Chat) to be a revocation of my membership. It might seem like I'm turning my back on bros, but as I said, GC is entertainment, networking, and potential friendships. I don't come to GC to be beat up on, so I'm eliminating that aspect of my experience.

However, it does make me pause to think about all of our Greek sisters and brothers who may have been shunned over the years and now are no longer active. Can't say that I blame them if I am experiencing a fraction of what they went through.

But anyway.....I am sincerely humbled by the outpouring of support that everyone in this thread has shown me. I really didn't think that this would get more than five replies before it sank to the bottom of Chit Chat. It's nice to know that so many people on this site can identify with my "internet persona" -- which is no different from the real Rashid. I admire and appreciate so many of you.

I hope one day you all will realize how much this thread has meant to me, especially this week of all weeks.

Have a good one, folks!

Sorry for the delay on responding to this thread....

Rashid-- I am sorry your brothers are not supportive of you and your lifestyle choice. The manner in which you present yourself on GC exemplifies the characteristics that set Alpha men apart from the rest. I think any organizations should be thrilled to have you as a member.

Good luck-- and continue being you!

-wendi

Rashid,

I am so sorry that you are going through all of this grief from other members of your fraternity. I want to say that you are a gracious individual who is above the crap that people are saying about you. You are funny, a talented writer, and a wonderful person.


This is a little late to the thread, but I wanted to share this with you.
When I taught at an HBCU, I became very close to several faculty members who were Alphas, but more importantly, several students. Many of the young men that I mentored always had the goal of becoming an Alpha, and the ones that crossed were always so happy to come show me their line jackets. When word got out that I am a member of the Order of the Eastern Star, many of these young men who were Alphas also told me that they were Masons as well. I can tell you that these gentlemen always had my back on campus, and it was truly a pleasure for these young outstanding men who represented Alpha. When I was serving as an advisor to a Christian sorority that was coming on the yard, the Alpha men were one of the first groups to step up and support the ladies in their endeavor. Some of the finest young men that I have met are fraternity brothers of yours. These men I know here would never act as hateful as those on this board have done to you. You, my friend, show a lot of these same qualities that I personally associate with the Alphas I know.

Please know that I am thinking of you; if you are ever in Birmingham, I would be delighted and honored to introduce you to some of the brothers I know here.

Lots of hugs,

Cheryl

Oh wow, I only just now saw this thread.

Rashid, you and I are not "GC buddies" or anything, but I have to say this. I for one don't understand how anyone can talk to you for any length of time and then somehow arrive at the conclusion that you are unworthy to be an Alpha. That concept just does not compute with me. I have always regarded you as one of the more consistant and classy posters here at GC. You represent both Alpha and APO in a manner worthy of both fine organizations. Yeah, I knew you were gay....and that never factored into my opinion of you. I'm just really sorry that some of your brothers can't see past a label and see you for who you *are*. Obviously, you have more supporters here than detractors - that should speak volumes as to your true character.

.....Kelly

Rashid, like everyone else who has posted here, I'm sorry you're going through this. You're one of the few people on GC about whom I could never possibly say a bad word. You're classy, smart, fun, cool and I SO admire what you're doing with your writing.

I hope those of us who have read about this can take it as a learning opportunity -- a chance to realize that it's our differences that make our organizations interesting and strong and worthwhile. I'd hate to go to alumnae events and sit around with a bunch of women who are exactly like me, you know? I'm happy to have sisters who are straight, gay, who have kids, who don't, who are atheists or Christian or Jewish or Muslim or Buddhist or who are (oh teh horror!) republicans or whatever. I just wish everyone would realize that.

Rashid - when I refered to 'trash' on the Alpha Phi Alpha forum - I hoped it was undersood it was about the filth that judges a person on what they are and not who they are...

I would never lower myself to level that considers that the Alpha's I know or helped refound the chapter here at UofT are like the "brothers" here on GC... to me the vast majority of Alphas uphold the ideals and teachings that convinced me to support them here in Toronto...

The trah here on GC are to me the sad and pathetic fringe of a great Fraternity - misrepresented by the ravings and rantings of a minority of assholes (sorry can't think of a kinder term).

Keep being true to yourself and true to the teachings of Alpha Phi Alpha - not to the harassment of bigots.

From an Alpha to an Alpha
 

Brother Senusret I,

I write you on this particular forum and not on the Alpha Phi Alpha forum for two reasons: first to dispel any publicly-held notions that may suggest that the Brotherhood en masse has chosen not to acknowledge, accept, or otherwise associate with you; and second, on a more fraternal note, to welcome you in a space where I hope you are open to receiving it.

I wish that you had received a more fraternal reception on our forum, but for reasons I am not fully aware of, nor wish presently to explore further, you did not. Be that as it may, as an Alpha, I hope by this post to ameliorate the situation without creating a situation of my own.

Welcome to the Frat, Senusret I! Alpha, like life, is always developing; constantly presenting us with new challenges and hurdles while yielding benefits and rewards. Both fortunately and unfortunately, brothers are uncomfortable with who you are. By no means should they, or anyone else, presume themselves empowered to judge you; if for no other reason than there is nothing for which you should be judged. Unfortunately for all of us, this may not presently be the majority opinion. However, by your presence and perserverance, brothers (and others) will learn not only tolerance and acceptance, but also humility and a stronger sense of brotherhood. This makes the present situation quite fortunate and important to not only your personal development, but the developments of Alpha and of our greater society.

Therefore, I wish to thank you for remaining true to yourself and for being courageous enough not only to become an Alpha, but also to speak your mind. Don't let other people encourage you to compromise your dignity; for in the end, no one can take from you what you didn't offer to be taken. Remember, you are Alpha Phi Alpha.

Take care of yourself, Brother.


Most Fraternally,
The Interpreter

dear rashid, i am so sorry that you have felt unwelcome in your own forum. i think that sometimes it is easier to say things in writing that are hurtful and judgemental to an unknown person .
i was heartened to read that your chapter brothers have your back and like and respect you for who you are. when you are feeling down,maybe this will help you feel better. the people who know you like you,and hopefully someday those closeminded few who don't see what a super person you are will change their opinion. you are valued and well respected on greekchat, and have a wonderful kind manner about you. please know that we like you. lisa

and thank you to the interpreter for your wise counsel to rashid.

Impressive post by your Brother, Rashid. Take it to heart. You know it's true.

What she said!
Rashid, I was saddened when I saw all the stuff that went down. You are a good Alpha Man, you are a good APO man, hell you just rock all over (not to mention you are hella foine!)

(And I can't wait till payday to get your book)

You got a lot of folx that love you here and have your back (me included). The folx that got issues? the hell with them...that is THEIR problem.

Hang in there bro!

Interpreter -

Best. first. GC post. EVER.

:)

I don't care about your preference in colors, your preference in schools, or your preference in the gender of your lovers.

It's never made a difference to me.

I've always got your back.

Anytime.

Anywhere.

Indeed.

Brotherhood at its best.

Re: From an Alpha to an Alpha
 

What more can be said?

Thank you, dear Brother. THANK YOU.

Re: It's a damn shame....
 

Why don't you go inactive and start a gay fraternity for black males? Or better yet, just could always just join one of those "gay" clubs on campus. It may not be all black people, but they'd all be gay.


-I'm being serious.

Re: Re: It's a damn shame....
 

He is out of school.

Re: Re: It's a damn shame....
 

I am not interested in being part of a fraternity that uses sexuality as a criterion for selection. Brotherhood that transcends all is paramount to me. I found my home -- there is no need to disaffiliate.

I was in a gay club on campus -- it was called GU Pride. A club is not a fraternity and doesn't satisfy fraternal needs. It did, however, keep me abreast of news and initiatives that I needed to be aware of as a gay man on campus.

Where have I ever stated a desire to strictly be around people of the same sexuality? Never.

Re: Re: It's a damn shame....
 

I'm sure you are, and I don't think you're saying it to be argumentative or insensitive.

In reality, though, why should Rashid leave an organization to which he has devoted considerable time and energy, and for which he feels strongly, to segregate himself and others who do not deserve to be segregated?

If statistics are true, a reality check will show many more gay men in Alpha (and every other fraternity) who do not have the personal integrity and courage that Rashid displays daily. All of our organizations can use more men of his character -- no matter what their life and personal situations may be.

As it turns out, the man who recruited me and most of my pledge class and served as our Pledge Master and later President of the Chapter is gay -- although we didn't find out until many years later. I haven't seen him since shortly after college, but he was, and I'm sure still is an outstanding person. He was also a fine and inspirational leader in our chapter.

Finally, boy do I wish I could had the command of the language demonstrated by The Interpreter. I second 33's nomination for "Best First Post." Remarkable.

Rashid's the Best
It's no lie!

Just wanted to send support...

Kisses from me to you

R. I am hella late to this thread since I hardly read CC. But you know how this "old head" feels. Now hurry up and send me my d**n book. :D

And MaMaBuddah, where in the heck have you been, soror?

Rashid, My Interfraternal Brother, as DeltAlum said, dont worry to much about what some Moroon has to say.

There are Gays in all Greek Organizations and I know of some im My Fraternity who are the best damn Brothers there are!

I have an Alum who when I was told He was Gay, My question was and your point is? I still keep in touch today because I respect Him for all of the work that He did while an Active Brother.

Put on IGNOR and stick with us. As KSroc said, will cover your back!:)

Meanial Minds are Meanial People!:)

I like that. Sounds like something that could be a cross-stitch.

if you do cross stich it, check the spelling ;)

That is the beauty of it. Mean-ial not menial

Rashid,
I echo the positive statements everyone has made here. Intolerance has no place in your fraternity (or any for that matter), unless it's intolerance for ignorance, from which apparently some people have not yet escaped.

From what I have learned about your organization, both through you and others, you exemplify what it is to be an Alpha man. Continue your path, and avoid any crazy uncles along the way.

hey soror,

i've been lurking in the background.


here is my take on the homosexuality issue:

i am so tired of the whole homo talk. i've been a member of DST for ten years now, Been chapter president twice and VP once Promoted so much chapter awareness in all aspects. Met gay greeks in all of the BGLOS over the years. Gone through receiving like and dislke because i am a lesbian. Received several PM's from Members on Greekchat what have express the fact that they are homosexuals, but don't want to let anyone know on here.

i am pretty much tired of hearing the age old question "would you accept a gay member into your organization?"

people have their opinions? so what? i don't care? Homesexuals have been around forever. They are not going anywhere. As long as no one physically puts their hands on me and i don't have to go to jail again! it's all good.

i kinda just want to play the fool for a minute, not use any brain cells and post the lyrics to songs, ask laidbackfella questions, read the HC's in AKA ave, hit up random Spurts in DST land and spread myself all over Chit Chat.

ya feel me?


Rashid, baby! when are you going to venture to New York to promote your book. I would love to send a blast out through my Gay and Lesbian Site about your book!!!!! All the Black Pride's are coming up, get ready for some promotion!!!! :D

MaMaBuddha -

Here's a big hug for your awesome post. (not to mention the Fight Club signature)

***hug***

awwwwww...c'mon, stop being mushy! :p

Wha up damn two post in two days , this is a record for me but on with it.


Senusret I i have never met you. i am not familar with your chat. so i don't know if you r a good bruh or a good member or just like the way the nalia looks, but i do know that if you crossed or if you just joined then you had to learn about the spirit of the fraternity.

If you r going to uphold the light then you need to UPHOLD THE LIGHT. ask yourself what can yuo do for the Fraternity, and do not see what the frat can do for you, a

regardles of what they did or said to you you do not run else where and disrespect the Pham. yes they were over the top and the thread was closed before i had a chance to get to let them know, and hell i'm from an era before PCness was cool. but if they bloody your head you keep it unbowed.

If you r a Alpha in your heart then that forum is for you. you need to stand up like an Alpha man. you post over there and you hold your own the respect with resurface. they talk sh*t then ignore them or just talk sh*t back.

if you like men well that is between u and your maker. i
i'm not one to judge, i love women and i have probaly loved too many women and that is between me and my maker

UPHOLD THE LIGHT but make sure u r letting the light shine for Alpha Phi Alpha and not for Senusret I

I'm out

IN THE FELL CLUTCH OF CIRCUMSTANCE....

I HAVE NOT WINCED NOR CRIED ALOUD.

UNDER THE BLUDGEONINGS OF CHANCE....

MY HEAD REMAINS BLOODY, BUT UNBOWED.


:cool: :mad:

LOL! Brought back memories for ya'

I wasn't going to post but...
 

what the heck.


B, im sorry for your hurt. i cant imagine what you are going through. MAN UP THOUGH! you had to know you would encounter negative energy when you chose to join a BGLO. you might have wished it not to happened. its wonderful to think so ideally, but there are people who wont like for your hair, what you say and who you bed. from what i know of you and SEEN through your chapter website, you work hard for your organization. let that be your focus. you joined alpha for a reason. seek comfort in the joy you felt getting your invite letter, when you finished your process, your awards, accolades etc. you let others steal your joy when you allow their hateful comments to consume you and question your decisions.

in 10 or 20 years these same folks will still be commenting on the same thing, BUT it will truly be useless commentary because they wont be able to take away the strides you have made for your chapter AND organization.

keep counsel with those like mamabuddha who are walking similar paths.

remember dont let anyone steal your joy. the creator in his infinite wisdom decides what is right or wrong.

Good grief.:confused:

and I got your back as well, Rashid.

You're a good man, a good friend and a great contributor to Greekdom.


:cool:

R and MaMa,

I admire your spirit.

I'm behind you both

So I'm really late on this one, but.......
 

Rashid,
I don't know you personally, nor have we even had a conversation, persay. However, I know that choosing to be "different" is not always what is acceptable these days. By putting yourself out there, you have stated that you are a stand up guy. How sad that others are incapable of accepting you, instead choosing to ridicule and shun you in a place where you should be most accepted! I'm sure that there is nothing better to focus our time and effort on than what our brothers and sisters are doing, worried about how that makes our group looks......

I applaud you for not being silent. It is okay to be upset when others treat you unfairly. Unfortunately, as my mother always said, "Life is not fair". (Most of the time, growing up, I had to learn this the hard way, over and over again.) But, these men, your brothers, are still just that: your brothers. I would hate for you to treat them the same way they have treated you, but rather, continue to be the stand up guy. Continue to post in the Alpha forum. It is still your home. Show the other members that you are, and will forever be, a strong and courageous member of Alpha Phi Alpha.

EmLee