I know that most fraternities and sororities do have explicit clauses about speaking with members of the media. There have been many times that members of the media have tried to trick and persuade GLO members to give them statements for various purposes. Being that this is the internet, it's very hard to trust someone, and it's better to err on the side of caution. Trust me, I "felt the wrath" after speaking to a NYTimes reporter last year (fortunately she agreed not to quote me).
The advice that has been given is the best advice that could have been given. If you are truly interested, contact the headquarters of the groups. Explain your project, and they'd probably be more than happy to help get you in contact with members.
Not only that, but it would make your paper a lot more professional if you "went to the top" so to speak.
Also keep in mind that this is a difficult time of the year to get ahold of people. It's finals for most college students, and the beginning of winter break- students aren't at school, etc.
Good luck on your project, but this isn't the best resource for you to use. One thing i've learned about research throughout high school, college, and now law school, is that internet sources are considered very weak as sources unless they're from a verifiably, official site of a group (such as getting court documents from the Supreme Court website). The anonimity of the internet lends itself to misleading statements and facts. You're better off using primary sources.
Hybrid Mode
