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Originally posted by Diva_56
I would think that this type of list would spark more legal ramifications than it was trying to avoid, especially with the list of women who would be barred from membership... Don't you think that it is certainly the sorority's business and not the entire world's to see barred applicants? I can see the defamation of charactor lawsuits comming from a mile away, because these women are not even members of XYZ organization and you are posting their name on your website without permission... Hmmmn?
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First, please do not assume that the potential legal ramifications of posting the list were not examined by my Sorors on the National Executive Board in consultation with our legal advisors before the decision was made. This was not a step taken lightly in any way, shape or form.
Second, Delta is not the only organization to list suspended members on their website. The Omega Psi Phi website has had this information listed for a while now. Interesting I have never seen the same hoopla over it. I am sure there may have been when it went up but apparently it has not posed a problem.
Third, all of the listed individuals are either members who made binding commitments to the organization as far as conduct was concerned or applicants who also signed a contract when they applied. Both groups were fully aware of the possible disciplinary action that could result from breaking their part of that agreement. There is an investigation process that must be followed before one is included on the list and there is an internal appeal process. Of course the courts always exist as a last resort, however a defamation suit will only succeed if the information put out is false. If the Sorority has suspended you, what is false about telling that to the world? If you are barred from membership, again, that is a fact. The underlying allegations are not published. And truthfully, even if they were, those on the list would want to have their ducks in a row (pardon the expression) before setting foot in a courthouse.
No one is out to embarrass Delta Sigma Theta, least of all the National Executive Board. As Beejae stated, this was done in many ways to PROTECT my beloved Sorority. A far more pressing legal issue facing all BGLO's today is whether they KNEW or SHOULD have known about illegal hazing and hazers within the organization. Publishing the list to make others aware who is not to participate with Sorority activities and to alert interests as to women they should avoid in their pursuit of Delta is a way of demonstrating that we are not trying to conceal this information. If the offenders are embarrassed- so be it. Don’t do the crime if you can't do the time. And many of those listed would not be there if they paid their fines.
How other BGLO's will choose to deal with this has yet to be seen. To each her own. Each organization has to do what is right for her and look honestly at what the situation calls for. It would be the greatest tragedy and embarrassment to see any of the Divine Nine brought down under the weight of pricey litigation over hazing, unable to fulfill the mission of her Founders.