While I must agree that pledging (not hazing) is an important piece to brotherhood, we can not let it divide the House of ALPHA...
There are some major points to remember when trying to figure out whether it is worth it or not...
Have we forgotten that not just one, but many Brothers and Sisters have been hurt in so called "pledge" processes. Right now, underground processes are not safe...I don't know about you, but I don't want one single hazing case to possibly bring my beloved Fraternity to an end (or any other org. for that matter)...most of our organizations are barely a prayer away from that fate...Noted Greek historian, Brother Lawrence Ross Jr noted this in the promotion of his book, The Divine Nine, around the country.
Further, you can't blame people for the process they received...They HAD NO CHOICE in the matter...you're falting the wrong person...(your falting the person for the organization who put it in place) are they supposed to go begging for someone to "Pledge" them? yes, pledging is a beautiful process!!! But the chapter, and really the National body decides how, where, and when to bring over new bruhz...Vigilante Bruhz and Chapters who promote making up some trumped up process only foster disunity between so called "paper" initiates and "old heads."...as well, they put the chapter (and the national body) in jeopardy...the days of wood, the orange, zesting and all that have come to an end...and if you don't believe it...just watch how fast you get sued...I've seen it happen so often in every part of the country I live in! And you can't defend beating someone as if he stole somethin'
Further, The best place to make changes is on the executive level...that's why its important for bruhs who believe in an old school process to stay active! (in many cases they don't b/c they are mad about this new thing)...In order to effect change, you've got to be active!...you can't do nothin' crying in the background!...those bruhs who believe in a pledge process need to form a coalition and make their concerns known!
I really believe that all the organizations would like to return to a process that allows for growth, pledging, and hardwork...but we can't do that with knuckleheads already violating national sanctions...if we do, who knows what would happen...your sister or brother may land up in the hospital
I also think that it is very UNBROTHERLY to treat any ALPHA (or member of your organization) as though he didn't make the same vow you did...firstly, you contribute to their thoughts about the disunity of the organization...and secondly you can't judge THEIR heart based on whether they can remember #5's line name and mother...Their commitment regardless of the process is what I look for...Brotherly behavior amongst brothers is most important...that's what fuels the bonds (TREATMENT!!!)
Personally, I would like to promote an above ground pledge process...i think its safer...and gives the organizations more visability as well as promotes positivity amongst all pledges...
When talking to those who crossed b-4 1970, many have echoed how Ivies helped Pyramids and how Sphinxmen have helped Lamps...it was help everybody...which promotes the kind of unity that we want in the Black Greek Community as well as the Black Community overall...
"if you can keep your head when all about you are losing theirs"
Much love 2 All MY Beloved Bruhz,
And 2 My Sisters of Pink and Green,
Fraternally,
Ice Cold Kreator, #2 -- Fall 99
"If he's 2 cold, he must be a duece
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