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Originally Posted by 1964Alum
The reality is that fraternities are now on the ropes. And need to do some SERIOUS self-examination and take effective corrective measures rather than indulge in defensive maneuvers
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Nothing could be further from the truth. The fraternal system as a whole is healthy and doing as well as it ever has. The Atlantic has done a pretty decent job of covering these situations and where schools have attempted to shut down fraternities, it hasn't always gone well. Public schools just won't do it. It may be fun to talk about, but it's just not in the cards.
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Decent people -including current college students and alumni- are horrified by these revelations. And wonder what more is going on behind the closed doors of a fraternity. Who would want to be a part of this?!!!
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Decent people need to stop shitting their pants every time a 19-20 year old does something stupid. Kids did stupid stuff when you were in school. You probably did stupid stuff when you were in school. They will continue to do dumb things. Some things, e.g., offensive jokes, should be forgivable and seen as opportunities to educate and improve lives. Other things, e.g., gang rape, are unforgivable and we should do the utmost to cooperate with Title IX investigators and law enforcement and not attempt to cover up illicit activities. And the thing is--our national offices and officers are pretty darn good at these things. Most schools are as well.
People should really stop saying that we can't handle any more of this or that and that "it must stop" or we're facing some sort of existential crisis. We're not. We are fine. Kids will continue to do stupid things and we'll be fine. Might we close down a chapter for 4 years and recolonize? Yep. As long as net, we're adding more chapters than we're losing, we're winning the war.
At least anecdotally, I have really enjoyed working with my national organization and my school's Greek Life professionals (I know they lurk here) and see them actively working to expand the Greek community (rather than as you suggest to do it harm) and to provide great options for student life on the campus.