Quote:
Originally Posted by gee_ess
At Arkansas, the use of "baby___" is rampant. It is relatively new (along with the popularity of intricate handsigns, PULEEZE) and I think the pledges kind of like it. It is used endearingly, "We love our baby Kappas" and seems to be a bit of an ego thing for older members to say.
If the use of the word "pledge" and other related terms (pledge mom/pledge daughter) were eliminated because it was derogatory, then I think "baby" just topped that list.
Actually, I do not think the use of the word 'baby' is terrible - because if you do away with it, then older members will still find a word that conveys the relationship of older/newer membership. "Baby" is endearing in their eyes.
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If they're using it in that way, it IS derogatory and verging on hazing.
I say officially go back to pledge. I never met anyone who minded it, but I can think of LOTS of my sisters who would have never put up with "baby" and laughed outright at the clinical-ness of "new member." (Bringing out "new member" at the height of Beavis and Butt-Head? Seriously people, not a good idea here.)