I wouldn't be surprised if other NPC I/HQs felt the same way.

If my Founders didn't do a handsign, I don't want it.

It just surprises me that it's something that anyone would take a stand on. It seems like something that would be around a while and then kind of die out on its own.

I'm not as strict as OTW about only using stuff our founders did, I guess, although I would think it was weird if we adopted an official hand sign.

I meant that only in regards to handsigns.

I understand the need to adapt to society changes, but a freaking handsign? Gimme a break.

Agreed:)

Well, as I said, it'd be weird if we formally adopted one, but it also doesn't seem like something to actively try to suppress. I just see it as a trend that will come and go. I could see warning people about photo submissions just because it wouldn't be visually interesting to see every photo of a group doing the same thing.

And, here's the real thing, I wonder if the interest in shutting it down has to do with a perception of it being ghetto more than inauthentic. I didn't see a big concern about authenticity when people were getting a bunch of Vera Bradley lettered stuff. Not you, OTW, but just generally in terms of the powers that be in each organization.

(Not that there wouldn't be a legitimate source of concern about branding on some level, since I think most chapters probably picked up the idea from trying to make up fake suburban gang signs to flash, but it seems like the NPHC groups have a long traditions with signs, and I kind of like it when we adopt stuff from the Divine Nine.

ETA: one the other hand, I could get behind an IHQ rule that simply said "We refuse to be pathetically late adopters of any cultural trend; therefore, be it resolved that no chapter will display hand signs or use any recruitment slogan or humorous sign that's clearly beyond its prime.")

I said, "we didn't" back when I was a pledge, which was a long time ago. :cool:

In any case, I have recently seen pics with the "Xi" sign.

Especially if you don't have one...........:D

A few years ago an SAI chapter proposed a hand sign. They went through all the appropriate levels; first showing it to advisors, then to the Province Officer, and eventually proposing it to the NEB. The NEB approved the hand sign, so it is condoned by Headquarters, but they are not going to incorporate it into our ritual--thank god.

The way I understand it is--you're supposed to be able to see the Sigma, Alpha, and Iota all in the one hand sign.

As soon as photobucket it back working, I'll upload a picture.

Because the crown has a deep and lasting meaning for ZTAs and handsigns are not part of our heritage. I know many alumnae that view it as disrespectful. Our magazine, Themis, will no longer print pictures of members gesturing that way, either.

Thank you for your answer. I hadn't considered the particular symbol at all. I was thinking in terms of letters or other images that most of us tend to reproduce kind of casually in other areas, but we should probably all be more careful generally.

I have seen some GFB chapters make a cresent moon by curving their hands

I don't believe our magazine, The Crescent, allows for pictures showing hand signs either.

I think SmartBlondeGPhB was referring to the OP not being in a sorority but being presumptuous enough to "start contemplating what her new sororities symbol would be, with the always adorable hand gesture."

No, I was actually saying we don't have one because we don't have one (regardless of whether someone "sees" it around).