Ms. AKA wrote:
I have a question... How do you expect sorors to function within Alpha Kappa Alpha with out knowing the proper rituals and information only available through a pledge process?
I can't speak for the NPHC groups, but in the NPC (National Panhellenic Conference), new members participate in a 6-10 week long education process that includes history, goals, meaning of symbols & ritual, organization of the chapter officers, etc. These things are taught in a classroom type atmosphere and include learning tools as appropriate. At first the only ritual the new members participate in is a Pledging Ritual, where they offer their commitment and bond to the sorority. The next and most important ritual is Initiation. At this time the secrets of the sorority are revealed and a deeper commitment is forged.
And how do you expect new initiates to learn this info without a pledge process?
See above...
Why does nationals bring new members into the org without a process, without warning them about what the consequences will be for those individuals who did not experience the "real" process?
In the NPC, all member fraternities participate in a structured, mutual selection process designed to benefit both the new member and the chapter.
As far as "real" process I believe you are referring to the actions now prohibited by the NPHC. Why do you think you can't be a real member unless you are hazed? Why can't you make a commitment based on your heart, not how long you went without sleep, how long you wore the same clothes or how long you managed NOT to talk to anyone except your sorors? If the women in your chapter treat you poorly because you didn't get hazed, the problem is with them, not you. These women need to mature and get passed their anger and realize that what was done to them was wrong and they should fight to make sure that noone experiences the same things as they did.
The NPC member groups have a long history of membership success and commitment without employing these types of activities. We believe that by treating our new members well, by showing them the true meaning of sisterhood and fraternal love, by educating them appropriately and by setting an example, the new members will be as committed to the sorority as the initiated members.
NPC groups program sisterhood programs for the new members and the rest of the chapter. New members are given Big Sisters, who act as a mentor, guiding the new member during her initial weeks of sorority life and being there to encourage her and make her comfortable with the chapter.
I would be interested in discussing the differences in NPC Recruitment vs. NPHC intake processes.
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Fraternally,
Barbara
Zeta Tau Alpha Alumna
If you have to go around telling everyone you're in charge you're not much of a leader.
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