ZChi4Life, we had a similar experience but for totally different reasons. For two years, we were the only Latina sorority on campus. We had a lot of girls express interest during this time. Some pledged, some were denied membership and others decided they we not ready to pledge for one reason or another.
Anyway, during the third year we were on campus, several young ladies that had once expressed interest in my organization began pledging/chartering their own colony of another Latina sorority. These were really great girls. We were happy for them and there were no ill feelings between us. Although, a lot of outsiders tried to pit us against eachother.
That same year, several other ladies that were denied membership to my sorority in the past, began to pledge and charter a chapter of
another Latina sorority. These ladies had "bad-mouthed" us in the past.
Because of that, most people on campus knew they had been denied membership by us. Well, let's just say other greeks had a field day with them.
We overcame this by approaching them about doing some joint community service projects after they were initiated. It wasn't easy because they had been pretty much giving us the "cold shoulder" act. But,it worked! We worked together many, many times. Especially during Hispanic Heritage Month and Women's History Month.
We still heard comments from the peanut gallery. But we didn't let that stop us. I'm not saying we were the best of friends with these ladies. However, we felt that it was necessary for us to show that we supported them. If we didn't have a problem with them, then really no one else should. That's what Greek Unity is all about.
There will always be some "drama" between organzations. That's just the way it is. I would just work with the organizations that you have established a relationship with. As far as the other sorority, I would still attend and support their programs. Let them see that the ill-will is solely on their side. One day they will come to understand the concept of "Greek Unity".
Don't let it get you down. Keep striving to fulfill the goals and ideals of your organization!
[This message has been edited by Serenity (edited August 15, 2000).]