[wishinhopin]

I've had quite a bit going on in my life, so I welcomed the opportunity to vent to someone- in this case, the opportunity to bitch out Cosmo. I think I was irritated by this mostly because I've been such a huge fan of the magazine for so long, and this just really makes me feel a bit resentful. So anyway, here's my diatribe to Cosmo, hope y'all enjoy...(it's long, because I am long winded, in case anyone hadn't noticed yet):

As a loyal Cosmopolitan reader for years and years now, I feel compelled to reply. First, let me give you a bit of background. I've been reading your magazine since I was eight years old. I used to swipe my mom's copies and read them on the sly, learning all I could about what it meant to be a woman. Now, thirteen years later, I'm a woman myself. I have read every issue of your magazine in those thirteen years. I understand your vision, your ideals, and what your target demographics are. But the above mentioned topic really upsets me.

First of all, an article such as this is propogating an untrue and unfair stereotype that was generated largely by unreliable, anecdotal, minority viewpoints. The majority of women who participate in sororities have nothing but positive experiences to report. As a matter of fact, I would venture so far as to guess that many of the Cosmo staffers were Greek themselves. And yet still the media wants to sensationalize something that is a legitimately beneficial extracurricular activity for women.

When I was growing up, your magazine represented the joys of being a woman- the sexual prowess a woman could wield, the undying loyalty of friendships between women, and the indominatable spirit that allows ALL kinds of women to succeed in whatever they choose. How, then, does denigrating such a beneficial and educational experience contribute to the furthering of Cosmo women?

I realize that this is about selling magazines. I understand that you need to make money, and this is what sells. My collegiate education has been focused on preparation to join the advertising industry, and I am no stranger to the fact that sex, violence, and shocking stories make money. But I am also the former President and Founder of my sorority. My college years also involved interaction with Greek members on my campus, and around the country. I have come to realize that the negative stereotypes are just that- stereotypes. Yes, some organizations haze. A minority of Greek organizations haze. Athletic clubs, high school organizations, and various extracurriculars also haze. Not all, but a minority.

And, to counter another point- sororities and fraternities do not promote binge drinking, irresponsible sex, or reenforcement of negative gender roles. In general, college age men and woman are experimenting with sex, drugs, drinking, different activities, etc. A Greek organization comprised of such college students will necessary represent some of those people. However, there is also a proliferation of honors students, members involved in extensive community service, and career driven men and women. I won't list all the facts and figures here, but it might behoove Cosmo to investigate how many of our political leaders, media stars, Fortune 500 business owners, etc, all would speak positively about their Greek experience.

In short, an article like this is accomplishing something that I didn't realize Cosmopolitan magazine supported- a specific denigration of a subset of women who deserve the public's respect and support. If you want to do an article on the horrors of hazing, that's fine. But in my opinion (which I feel is quite credible, given the education and organizations that I am representing here, including faithful Cosmo readers), Cosmo has always tried to be ahead of the game. A magazine that prides itself on presenting in your face, empowering, and original information could truly benefit from this age of anti-Greek sentiment. So I would suggest that Cosmo consider the benefits of an article that shows both sides- the dangers of hazing, as infrequent as it is, as well as the accomplishments and honest reflections of sorority women. Otherwise, several of your target demographics are seriously endangered.

Intelligent sorority women across the country and world do not respond well to crass and desperate attempts at shock media. Furthermore, the legions of pre-teen and teenage girls who wish for nothing more than to grow up and be just like Elle Woods (who, for what it's worth, Cosmo has highlighted as an excellent role model for women pursuing their dreams) are going to have to choose between their dreams, and what Cosmo says. No matter what, your magazine is losing readers.

In an environment that is already super saturated with anti-greek propaganda, the average consumer doesn't need to turn to Cosmo for more information on bad sorority experiences. They can turn on MTV or pick up a best selling book for that. So instead of capitolizing on what has already been done, perhaps Cosmo should follow the lead of all the other major women's magazines in publication today. Glamour, Jane, Marie Claire, and Elle have all started to focus more on encouraging a healthy body image, presenting models of all shapes and sizes, and focusing on the inspiring triumphs of women. As we all progress towards a more intelligent and open minded America, it seems only appropriate that the leading magazine among young adult women would lead the way.