Stereotypes

[gypsy]

What do you think about the stereotypes that are put out there about the black greek organizations. Some people join an organization and change into that sterotype instead of being themselves. Give some insight on this situation.

[Sweet Deliverance]

Many stereotypes began on the premise of ignorance and are further perpetuated by the same. Yes BGLOs, such as Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., have traditional characteristics that are unique and positive as well as stereotypes based on nonsense. When a person joins any organization, specifically NPHC, only they know the reasons they join, but assimilation and conforming because of a change in affiliation are to be expected.

Why do people change for the worse? Who knows, but it happens occassionally. People seeking membership (and members) should be strong individually and have a sense of who they are in absence of the letters and colors. All members of BGLOs (hopefully all financial and actively supporting your organization)should strive to uphold your orgs founding princples and let everything else fall where it will.

[ZetaAce]

There are always going to be people in all organizations that uphold negative sterotypes and 'change' after they pledge. Usually, the people who do are struggling with their own self image, I believe that we need to focus on the positive aspect of sororities and fraternities, and reject stereotypes when they are presented to us. These sterotypes stay around because people keep repeating them and passing them on to others. What we need to pass along is:

A. We work hard in our communities
B. We promote sisterhood/brotherhood
C. We promote scholarship

There are so many positives in our orgaizations, it shouldn't be hard

Zeta Ace

Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.

[This message has been edited by ZetaAce (edited April 14, 2000).]